Viruses are known to cause many different diseases. Less well known is that certain viruses are used to treat cancer. More than 100 years ago, doctors first observed that patients were cured of cancer after suffering from infectious diseases. Systematic studies have shown that there are types of viruses that selectively attack cancer cells. These are known as oncolytic viruses. In October 2015, an oncolytic virus was approved for the treatment of malignant melanoma for the first time in the US, followed by Europe and Australia in 2016. 

Tumor cells cannot defend themselves against viruses

Tumor cells are particularly sensitive to viruses because, unlike healthy cells, they cannot produce enough interferon to fight off infection. This allows viruses to multiply unchecked in cancer cells. Under certain circumstances, the viral infection alerts the immune system and triggers a defensive response against tumor cells, which can take effect throughout the body. Healthy body cells can prevent reproduction by producing interferon. This usually leads to flu-like symptoms, but protects healthy cells from damage. This is why the Newcastle disease virus is harmless to humans.

The Newcastle Disease Virus 

Oncolytic viruses also include the Newcastle disease virus, which is used at the IOZK to treat tumors. It has been in use for decades and has been particularly well researched in terms of its effectiveness against cancer.