Columbia scientists develop viral therapy to target cancer cells

In a significant development in cancer treatment, scientists from Columbia Engineering have ingeniously engineered a novel therapy that employs bacteria as vessels to introduce viruses into malignant tumors. This innovative approach, showcasing remarkable safety characteristics, has been validated through experiments conducted on mice. By utilizing Salmonella typhimurium, a type of bacteria that is drawn to the unique conditions found within tumors, these researchers have created a clever delivery system that shields the viruses from the body’s immune defenses. The research team, including associate professor Tal Danino and virologist Charles Rice from The Rockefeller University, developed this platform to circumvent the challenges faced by conventional virus therapies, particularly the issue of pre-existing immunity that many patients have developed. The bacteria serve as a sort of 'Trojan horse,' allowing the viruses to be delivered directly into the cancer cells without immediate detection by the immune system. Once the bacteria reach the tumor, they self-destruct, effectively releasing the viral genetic material inside the cancerous tissues. This dual mechanism utilizes the natural abilities of both microorganisms: while the bacteria adeptly locate and colonize tumors, the viruses are effective at infecting and eliminating tumor cells. This understanding has led to a significant breakthrough, as it not only improves therapeutic efficacy but also works towards preventing virus spread outside of the cancerous tissues, ensuring the safety and focused application of the therapy. As the research progresses, the team is currently working on integrating advanced safety measures to minimize the risk of the virus infecting healthy tissues. Their ultimate goal is to translate these findings into clinical treatments for solid tumors, a significant stride towards employing living therapies in medical practice. With patents already filed for this innovative strategy, the potential for these findings to contribute to effective cancer treatments is promising and reflects a significant advancement in virotherapy.