Modulating the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment: Multi-synergistic cancer therapeutic approach with oncolytic viruses

Michael Tosin Bayode 1, *, Olamide Joshua Babatunde 1, Prosper Obed Chukwuemeka 2, Henry Nnaemeka Ogbonna 3, 4, Chibuzo Valentine Nwokafor 3, 5, Sunday Ayodele Alonge 6, Christopher Busayo Olowosoke 2 and Arinola Harriet Oshokoya 7

1 Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Nigeria.
2 Department of Biotechnology, Federal University of Technology, P.M.B. 704, Akure, Nigeria.
3 Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Abia State, Nigeria.
4 University of Bath. Claverton Down, Bath. United Kingdom.
5 University of the West of Scotland, Lanarkshire, Glasgow. United Kingdom.
6 Bamidele Olumilua University of Education, Science and Technology, Ikere, Ekiti-State, Nigeria.
7 Department of Microbiology, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
 
Review Article
World Journal of Advanced Research and Reviews, 2024, 21(01), 543–559
Article DOI: 10.30574/wjarr.2024.21.1.2585
 
Publication history: 
Received on 07 November 2023; revised on 29 December 2023; accepted on 01 January 2024
 
Abstract: 
Most patients with complex malignancies show a high level of toxicity and limited long-lasting responses to current conventional therapies. In contrast, the immune system has the intrinsic potential to distinguish between self and non-self (foreign or different) cells, including cancer cells, and successfully eliminate them. Even after T and NK cells successfully navigate sophisticated surveillance paths studded with diversion networks, processes, and impediments, they must overcome the impacts of a highly neutralizing and immune-suppressive destination known as the tumor microenvironment (TME).  A comprehensive understanding of these TME events, immune system stimulative OVs functions, and synergistic possibilities with other immune activating strategies will provide insight and present a unique opportunity for improved therapeutic efficacy against cancer. The synergistic potential of combining oncolytic viruses with immune checkpoint inhibitors merits further exploration. In particular, focusing on the PD-1/PD-L1 (programmed cell death) axis may hold promise in amplifying antitumor immune responses and thereby bolstering therapeutic outcomes.
 
Keywords: 
Oncolytic viruses (OVs); Cancer; Immunotherapy; Tumor microenvironment (TME); Immunosuppression; T-cells
 
Full text article in PDF: 
Share this