Towards predictive computational models of oncolytic virus therapy: basis for experimental validation and model selection.

ABSTRACT: Oncolytic viruses are viruses that specifically infect cancer cells and kill them, while leaving healthy cells largely intact. Their ability to spread through the tumor makes them an attractive therapy approach. While promising results have been observed in clinical trials, solid success remains elusive since we lack understanding of the basic principles that govern the dynamical interactions between the virus and the cancer. In this respect, computational models can help experimental research at optimizing treatment regimes. Although preliminary mathematical work has been performed, this suffers from the fact that individual models are largely arbitrary and based on biologically uncertain assumptions. Here, we present a general framework to study the dynamics of oncolytic viruses that is

SUBMITTER: Wodarz D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2629569 | biostudies-literature | 2009

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature