Oncolytic Virus Therapy

Medulloblastoma is the most prevalent brain tumor in children without specific therapy available, resulting in a death rate of >30% and severe side effects among survivors.

In this project, we work on genetically embedding Tri-specific NK cell engagers (TRiKEs) in oncolytic Vaccinia virus. The construct overcomes the blood-brain-barrier resulting in Vaccinia virus-mediated killing of medulloblastoma cells, subsequently attracting immune cells that engage to the remainder of the tumor through the locally expressed TRiKEs. Natural Killer immune cells will give the final hit. We employ oncolytic Vaccinia virus, medulloblastoma-specific TRiKEs, immune cells, and medulloblastoma cells and organoids.