Researchers developed a new technology named Conan to improve how oncolytic viruses reach tumors and fight cancer.
The system addresses a primary hurdle in virotherapy: the immune system frequently destroys modified viruses before they can infect and destroy cancer cells.
The system uses the patient’s own cells as carriers to transport the viruses directly to tumor sites. Hospital cleanrooms modify these carrier cells under controlled conditions before administration.
Conan incorporates a genetic control mechanism that temporarily blocks viral replication inside the carrier cells. This protection shields the virus during transit through the body until it reaches the targeted tumor.
Animal model testing shows promising results, particularly in preclinical lung cancer models. The technology increased the concentration of virus present in the tumor by up to 13 times compared to standard delivery systems.
Antitumor efficacy improved between 54 percent and 64 percent in those same comparative models. Moreno emphasized that these findings remain strictly preclinical, requiring complete safety studies before any human trials begin.
The research team plans to finish safety evaluations in animal models and prepare regulatory documentation for the Spanish Agency for Medicines and Health Products (Aemps).
Beyond lung cancer, the development team aims to test the platform on solid tumors such as pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, melanoma, and brain tumors like glioblastoma.
Conan uses patient-derived cells as trojan-horse carriers combined with a genetic control lock. This prevents the immune system from clearing the virus during transit and ensures the pathogen only replicates after reaching the tumor site.
Lung cancer is the primary candidate due to the team’s existing clinical expertise. Researchers are also evaluating high-need solid tumors like pancreatic cancer and glioblastoma for initial trials.
Worth a look