Clinical Advances and Future Directions of Oncolytic Virotherapy for Head and Neck Cancer

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Head and neck cancer (HNC) is a significant global health issue, and traditional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy often have limited success, especially in advanced cases. Oncolytic virotherapy (OVT) offers a new approach. Researchers have been working with various viruses, including herpes simplex virus and adenovirus, to target and kill cancer cells while sparing healthy ones. Some viruses have been genetically modified to enhance their tumor-targeting abilities and safety. Clinical trials have shown encouraging results, with improved patient survival rates and minimal side effects. Combining oncolytic viruses (OVs) with other treatments such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy has also demonstrated promise. While challenges such as optimizing dosages and addressing immune responses remain, OVT presents a hopeful avenue for improving HNC treatment in the future. ABSTRACT: Oncolytic viruses (OVs), without harming normal tissues, selectively infect and replicate within tumor cells, to release immune molecules and tumor antigens, achieving immune-mediated destruction of tumors and making them one of the most promising immunotherapies for cancer. Many clinical studies have demonstrated that OVs can provide clinical benefits for patients with different types of tumors, at various stages, including metastatic and previously untreatable cases. When OVs are used in combination with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and other treatments, they can synergistically enhance the therapeutic effects. The concept of oncolytic virotherapy (OVT) was proposed in the early 20th century. With advancements in genetic engineering, genetically modified viruses can further enhance the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy. In recent years, global research on OV treatment of malignant tumors has increased dramatically. This article comprehensively reviews the findings from relevant research and clinical trials, providing an overview of the development of OVT and its application in the clinical treatment of head and neck cancer. The aim is to offer insights for future clinical and fundamental research on OVT.