We use directed evolution for creating modified viruses that selectively infect and destroy tumors (oncolytic viruses). Cancer cells typically show innate immunity defects, which makes them highly susceptible to viral infections. By adapting a virus to tumors in the laboratory, it is possible to enhance the ability of this particular virus to kill cancer cells and to stimulate an immune response against the tumor. This may open new avenues for cancer therapy. We are currently focusing our efforts on vesicular stomatitis virus, a simple RNA virus with a natural tropism towards cancer cells.
Description
Title: Directed evolution of oncolytic virus.
Research Group: Virus Experimental Evolution
We use directed evolution for creating modified viruses that selectively infect and destroy tumors (oncolytic viruses). Cancer cells typically show innate immunity defects, which makes them highly susceptible to viral infections. By adapting a virus to tumors in the laboratory, it is possible to enhance the ability of this particular virus to kill cancer cells and to stimulate an immune response against the tumor. This may open new avenues for cancer therapy. We are currently focusing our efforts on vesicular stomatitis virus, a simple RNA virus with a natural tropism towards cancer cells.
Non-UV principal researchers
Rafael Sanjuán
Start date
2018
January
End date
2020
December
Funding agencies:
Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades
