Syncytium-forming HSV-1 in cancer gene therapy: From molecular mechanisms to clinical translation.

Authors

Xiangqian Zhao, Hucheng Zhang, Shuzhen Xu, Lingling Mei, Zhihua Feng, Dawei Wang, Weiwei Huang, Yangkun Shen

Published in

Virulence. Volume 17. Issue 1. Pages 2721822. Epub Sep 03, 2026.

Abstract

Gene therapy has emerged as a promising strategy for cancer treatment, yet challenges in efficient gene delivery remain a major barrier. Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), as an oncolytic virus, has garnered attention for its potential in cancer therapy due to its replicative capacity, large genomic payload, and relatively low toxicity. Notably, syncytium-forming HSV-1 (SF-HSV-1) not only exhibits enhanced and sustained antitumor efficacy but also triggers profound immune responses. However, the exact molecular mechanisms orchestrating HSV-1-induced syncytium formation, its resulting cytotoxicity, and its precise role in immune modulation remain incompletely understood. This review aims to provide an in-depth exploration of the mechanisms underlying HSV-1 syncytium formation and its therapeutic implications in cancer gene therapy.

PMID:
42693538
Bibliographic data and abstract were imported from PubMed on 04 Sep 2026.

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