Abstract
Reovirus type 3 Dearing (Reolysin, Oncolytics Biotech) is a wild-type double-stranded RNA virus that is ubiquitous and nonpathogenic in humans. It has been shown to be oncolytic by its ability to replicate in transformed cells but not in normal cells. Reovirus has been shown to exert significant antitumor effects in both preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies. In addition, reovirus can activate both innate and adaptive antitumor response against human and murine tumors. However, despite antitumor activity, the responses to reovirus monotherapy in human trials have been modest and short-lived. As a result, a number of potential strategies for improving antitumor efficacy are currently being evaluated. This chapter describes the application of oncolytic reovirus as an anticancer agent, alone or in combination with conventional therapies such as radiotherapy and chemotherapeutics. It also summarizes current clinical trials on reovirus therapy. © 2014 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.