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Virus Drug Eradicates Esophageal Cancer
27 Aug
Summary
- Genetically modified adenovirus destroys only cancer cells with active telomerase.
- Treatment for patients unable to undergo chemo, radiation, or surgery.
- Localized cancer disappeared in half of patients within 1.5 years.
Japan's health ministry approved a novel virus-based therapy for esophageal cancer in June, with sales commencing on August 21.
Developed by Okayama University startup Oncolys BioPharma Inc., Telomelysin is the world's first practical viral therapy for this condition. This treatment uses a genetically modified adenovirus that specifically multiplies within and destroys cancer cells exhibiting high telomerase activity.
The therapy is designed for patients with esophageal cancer who are not candidates for traditional chemotherapy, radiation, or definitive surgery. Administered via an endoscope injected into the tumor over three sessions, it aims to reduce patient burden by avoiding open surgery.
Clinical trials demonstrated significant efficacy, with localized cancer disappearing in approximately half of the patients within 1.5 years post-treatment. While side effects like fever and temporary lymphocyte decrease may occur, the drug offers a new treatment option. Fujifilm Toyama Chemical Co. is handling sales of Telomelysin, priced at approximately 9.3 million yen per patient and covered by Japan's high-cost medical expense system.
