Anti-cancer Virotherapy in Russia: Lessons from the Past, Current Challenges and Prospects for the Future

The idea of using the lytic power of viruses against malignant cells has been entertained for many decades. However, oncolytic viruses gained broad attention as an emerging anti-cancer therapy only recently with the successful implementation of several oncolytic viruses to treat advanced melanoma. Here we review the history of oncolytic viruses in the Russian Federation and recent biotechnological advances in connection with the perspectives of their practical use against aggressive tumors such as glioblastoma or pancreatic cancer. A particular emphasis is made on novel applications of safe non-lytic virus-derived vectors armed with prodrug-converting enzyme transgenes. Rational improvement of oncotropism by conjugation with biopolymers and nanoformulations is also discussed.

Automated summary

The idea of using viruses to destroy malignant cells has been around for a long time, but it has only gained significant attention in recent years due to the successful use of oncolytic viruses in treating advanced melanoma. This review focuses on the history of oncolytic viruses in Russia and discusses recent biotechnological advancements and their potential applications in aggressive tumors like glioblastoma or pancreatic cancer. The use of virus-derived vectors armed with prodrug-converting enzymes and the improvement of oncotropism through conjugation with biopolymers and nanoformulations are also explored.