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

Tumor cells cannot defend themselves against viruses

Tumor cells are particularly sensitive to viruses because, unlike healthy cells, they cannot produce enough interferon to defend themselves against infection. The viruses can therefore multiply unhindered in cancer cells. Under certain circumstances, the viral infection alerts the immune system and triggers an immune response against tumor cells, which can take effect throughout the body. Healthy body cells can stop the multiplication by producing interferon. This usually leads to flu-like symptoms, but protects the 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 used for decades and its effectiveness against cancer has been particularly well researched.