The development of oncolytic virus therapy has gained momentum over the past decade, due to its relatively safe mode of action and potential to enhance existing treatment options. A third of cancer vaccines in development are now oncolytic viruses, which are being developed for about 40 different types of cancer. In Vivo takes a closer look at therapies in development to see what the future holds for this promising therapy.

The company has two oncolytic virus platforms – a herpes simplex-based intratumoral injection and a synthetic virus-based intravenous technology for repeat systemic administration.

A late-phase assessment of the oncolytic virus in liver cancer patients was stopped early for futility but Transgene thinks the failure is an isolated event.

AstraZeneca inks a deal with French firm Transgene to co-develop five armed oncolytic vaccinia virus candidates in an area that is hotting up for big pharma.