Authors: J. Breitbach, Caroline; H. Thorne, Steve; C. Bell, John; H. Kirn, David

Source: Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Volume 13, Number 9, July 2012 , pp. 1768-1772(5)

Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers

Abstract:

Oncolytic viruses (OVs) are designed to replicate in, and subsequently lyse cancer cells. Numerous oncolytic virus platforms are currently in development. Here we review preclinical and clinical experience with JX-594, the lead candidate from the targeted and armed oncolytic poxvirus class. JX-594 is derived from a vaccinia vaccine strain that has been engineered for 1) enhanced cancer targeting and 2) has been “armed“ with the therapeutic transgene granulocytemacrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) to stimulate anti-tumoral immunity. Poxviruses have many ideal features for use as oncolytic agents. The development of oncolytic vaccinia viruses is supported by a large safety database accumulated in the smallpox eradication program. In addition, poxviruses have evolved unique capabilities for systemic spread through the blood that can be harnessed for the treatment of metastatic disease. JX-594 demonstrates a high degree of cancer selectivity and systemic efficacy by multiple mechanisms-of-action (MOAs) in preclinical testing. Data from Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials has confirmed that these features result in potent and systemic efficacy in patients with treatment refractory metastatic cancers.

Keywords: Oncolytic poxvirus; JX-594; Cancer; Oncolytic viruses; vaccinia vaccine strain; granulocytemacrophage colony stimulating factor (G; metastatic disease; multiple mechanisms-of-action (MOAs)

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.2174/138920112800958922

Publication date: 2012-07-01

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• Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology aims to cover all the latest and outstanding developments in Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. Each issue of the journal contains a series of timely in-depth reviews written by leaders in the field covering a range of current topics in both pre-clinical and clinical areas of Pharmaceutical Biotechnology. Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology is an essential journal for academic, clinical, government and pharmaceutical scientists who wish to be kept informed and up-to-date with the latest and most important developments.

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