Herpes simplex virus NV1020 as a novel and promising therapy for hepatic malignancy.

Overview

BACKGROUND: Patients with hepatic malignancy have a dismal prognosis with standard therapies. NV1020 is an oncolytic herpes simplex virus that has potential to be a safe and effective therapeutic agent for this disease. OBJECTIVE: We set out to discuss the development of NV1020 as an oncolytic agent and explore the potential role of this particular virus in the setting of human hepatic cancer. METHODS: The scope of this review includes an overview of preclinical experience with NV1020, as well as an examination of current standard and developing therapies for liver cancer. The primary focus, however, is on the safety and potential clinical efficacy of NV1020 against hepatic malignancy. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: We have found that NV1020 is a safe, novel therapeutic agent for treatment of refractory hepatic malignancy.