Oncolytic Zika Virus: New Option for Glioblastoma Treatment

Glioblastoma (GBM) is one of the most aggressive brain tumors and has a high recurrence rate, and effective treatment is urgently needed. GBM stem cells (GSCs) contribute to GBM recurrence as well as therapeutic resistance to radiation and chemotherapy. Several oncolytic viruses (OVs) have been developed and validated in clinical trials with favorable safety profiles and efficacy against GBM. Recently, Zika virus (ZIKV), a mosquito-borne flavivirus, was shown to preferentially target and kill GSCs and showed promising therapeutic effects in treating GBM in preclinical models. In this review, we summarize the known OVs for the treatment of GBM and highlight the major advantages and existing challenges for the clinical development of oncolytic ZIKV.

Automated summary

This review summarizes the current status of oncolytic viruses for GBM treatment, with a focus on the potential of Zika virus as a therapeutic virus for GBM and the associated advantages and challenges for its clinical development.