ASSOCIATION OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED HERPES VIRUS IN THE TREATMENT OF MELANOMAS

Abstract

Introduction: Melanoma skin cancer is the most aggressive and lethal due to its ability to develop metastases. Considering that conventional treatments do not provide desired results, the search for new methods is crucial. Thus, oncolytic viruses, specifically Talimogene Laherparepvec (T-VEC), which is a genetically modified herpes simplex virus (HSV-1), have been introduced as an effective treatment for non-resectable melanoma. T-VEC acts on tumor cells through viral replication and induction of the immune system. This article aims to discuss the use of T-VEC in melanoma treatment, its effects, and results, in order to shed light on its mechanism of action. Methods: A qualitative and exploratory review was conducted by searching scientific articles in PubMed and ScienceDirect. The articles were selected based on relevance criteria, including theme, approach to the subject, and results. Only articles published between 2020 and 2022 were considered. Results: The literature reveals that treatments with T-VEC have shown remarkable results in terms of metastasis regression and overcoming resistance to immunotherapy. Combined therapies have demonstrated even greater relevance compared to monotherapy. T-VEC used as a first-line therapy has shown longer progression-free survival. Conclusion: The use of Talimogene Laherparepvec (T-VEC) therapy demonstrates its potential to combat melanoma, despite the presence of some adverse effects during the treatment process. It remains one of the most promising tools for effective intervention in melanoma.