Anticancer Viruses and Their In Vitro Applications: An Updated Study

Abstract

Oncolytic viruses have emerged as a transformative class of therapeutic agents in cancer research, offering selective targeting and destruction of malignant cells while sparing normal tissues. Advances in molecular virology, genetic engineering, and tumor immunology have significantly expanded the scope of anticancer viruses, particularly in controlled in vitro systems that enable mechanistic exploration and therapeutic optimization. This study provides an updated and comprehensive analysis of anticancer viruses, focusing on their mechanisms of action, engineering strategies, and in vitro applications. Emphasis is placed on viral platforms such as adenoviruses, herpes simplex viruses, reoviruses, and vaccinia viruses, as well as emerging approaches integrating immunotherapy and gene editing technologies. The review highlights both the promise and limitations of current methodologies and outlines future directions for translational cancer research.