By specifically targeting cancer cells and triggering a strong immune response, the genetically modified herpes virus helps limit the progression of melanoma.
To fight melanoma, the most dangerous form of skin cancer, the genetically modified herpes virus has been shown to be effective. By destroying cancer cells and boosting the immune system, this treatment slows the progression of cancer, reveals a study published this Tuesday in the Journal of Clinical Oncology.
This is the first time that a Phase III clinical trial has demonstrated the efficacy and potential of virotherapy in cancer patients, according to the researchers. Conducted by the British Institute for Cancer Research, this study brought together more than 64 research centers around the world.
To carry out their work, the scientists selected 436 patients with advanced and inoperable melanoma. They then randomly formed two groups: one receiving the treatment called Talimogene Laherparepvec (T-VEC) and the other receiving control therapy.
A two-step attack
“There is enthusiasm for using virotherapy like T-VEC against cancer because it can launch a double attack,” says Kevin Harrington of the Institute for Research on Cancer and one of the main leaders of the ‘clinical test. The first destroys cancer cells directly and by mobilizing the immune system against the tumor “And because this treatment specifically targets cancer cells,” continues Kevin Harrington, “it causes fewer side effects than conventional chemotherapy treatments or some recent immunotherapies. “.
According to the results, for more than 16% of the patients who received an injection of T-VEC, the remission lasted more than 6 months, against 2.1% for the control group. It even lasted more than 3 years for some patients treated with T-VEC.
More than 3 years of remission
In addition, patients with cancer at an early stage and those who had not yet received treatment had better distribution with T-VEC compared to other voluntary patients. The study also reports that the 163 patients with early melanoma treated with T-VEC lived 20 months longer than patients with cancer at the same stage in the control group (41 months versus 21.5) .
“This treatment shows clear benefits for patients with early cancer,” says Kevin Harrington. Currently, studies are underway to assess whether it could be used first-line to treat aggressive forms of melanoma and advanced stages. “
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