Oncolytic viruses in cancer treatment: mechanisms, clinical progress, and future perspectives

Abstract

Oncolytic virotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer treatment by harnessing the natural ability of viruses to selectively infect and lyse tumor cells while sparing normal tissues. Beyond direct oncolysis, oncolytic viruses (OVs) reshape the tumor immune microenvironment to stimulate systemic antitumor immunity. This review outlines the development and current progress of OVs, highlighting major viral platforms such as herpes simplex virus, adenovirus, vaccinia virus, and reovirus. Genetic engineering has enhanced viral selectivity, replication efficiency, and immunogenicity, while preclinical and clinical studies demonstrate that OVs can induce durable tumor regression and synergize with immune checkpoint inhibitors and adoptive cell therapies. Mechanistic insights into OV–host interactions have guided the rational design of combination strategies. Despite challenges in systemic delivery, antiviral immunity, and safety optimization, advances in synthetic biology and immune modulation are expected to accelerate clinical translation and establish oncolytic virotherapy as a key component of next-generation cancer immunotherapy.

Keywords

oncolytic virus / cancer immunotherapy / tumor immune microenvironment / genetic engineering / combination therapy

Rights & permissions

Higher Education Press 2026

Just Accepted

This article has successfully passed peer review and final editorial review, and will soon enter typesetting, proofreading and other publishing processes. The currently displayed version is the accepted final manuscript. The officially published version will be updated with format, DOI and citation information upon launch. We recommend that you pay attention to subsequent journal notifications and preferentially cite the officially published version. Thank you for your support and cooperation.