Exploring the oncolytic potential of SARS-CoV-2: A novel avenue in cancer therapy

Authors: Ahed J. Alkhatib

Ger. J. Microbiol. 2025. vol. 5, Iss. 1 pp:41-55
Doi: https://doi.org/10.51585/gjm.2025.1.0048

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Abstract:

The outbreak of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become an important global health issue. Nonetheless, recent studies indicate its possibility as an oncolytic virus for cancer treatment. SARS-CoV-2 is a virus that infects the angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) receptors, which are expressed in certain cancer cells. The expressive nature of the receptor that SARS-CoV-2 can infect in cancer cells can lead to selective infection of the virus in cancer cells and also selectively destroy the tumor cells by cytopathic effects. On top of that, the tumor cells' death from viral replication changes the tumor environment. This immunomodulatory effect changes the immune response from one that suppresses to one that enhances immunity against tumors. Moreover, scientists have looked at ways to use chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) technology to direct viral infections toward cancer cells for improved specificity. However, problems also exist, such as fast viral clearance and antiviral immunity, which limit effectiveness over the long term. Using viruses to kill cancer cells is still a good way to target untreatable and widespread cancers. It will not only kill cancer cells but may also trigger the immune system. Moving forward with this may help create better cancer therapies.

Keywords:

SARS-CoV-2, Cancer, Oncolytic virus, Cancer immunotherapy, ACE2 Receptor, Viral oncolysis

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