Oncolytic Virus Therapy MarketSize and Trends
The global market for oncolytic virus therapy is projected to experience substantial growth, with an estimated value of US$ 46.1 Mn by 2030. This represents a significant increase from US$ 9.4 Mn in 2023, reflecting a remarkable compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25.5% during the period of 2023-2030. The anticipated growth is driven by advancements in the field, increasing adoption of oncolytic virus therapy, and its potential to revolutionize cancer treatment approaches. For instance, in April 2021, Elicera Therapeutics, a clinical phase cell and gene therapy company that develops immunooncological treatments focusing on CAR T cells and oncolytic viruses, announced that it had filed a patent application to protect the development of its drug candidate, ELC- 201, a next generation of oncolytic virus. ELC-201 is the second oncolytic virus in Elicera Therapeutic's product portfolio. It is based on an adenovirus that has been genetically modified in a way that makes the treatment applicable to most cancers, and the patent application protects the application of two more genetic modifications in combination that together give the drug candidate three mechanisms of action.
Market Trends:
- Advancements in Virotherapy Platforms: Advancements in virotherapy platforms are having a significant influence on the global oncolytic virus therapy market. Researchers are developing newer platforms that can more effectively deliver engineered viruses to tumor cells while avoiding healthy tissues. Certain novel platforms enable the precise delivery of oncolytic viruses by combining them with ligands that bind to receptors that are overexpressed in cancerous cells. This enhances the specificity and efficacy of virus therapy. Others are engineering viral particles with enhanced transduction abilities, enabling them to more easily enter tumor cells. For example, certain viruses are now being equipped with mutations that help them evade detection by the immune system, allowing them to replicate for longer within the body. Some groups are also working on multimodal platforms where oncolytic viruses can be combined with immunotherapy or chemotherapeutics to produce enhanced anti-tumor responses. The development of armed oncolytic viruses that can locally produce therapeutic proteins is another area witnessing innovations.
- Targeted Delivery Systems: Efforts are being made to develop targeted delivery systems for oncolytic viruses. These systems aim to enhance tumor-specific targeting and reduce off-target effects. Strategies include incorporating specific ligands or antibodies on the viral surface to improve tumor cell recognition and uptake.
- Immune Modulation Strategies: Immune modulation is an important aspect of oncolytic virus therapy. Researchers are focusing on strategies to enhance the immune response, including combining oncolytic viruses with immune checkpoint inhibitors, cytokines, and other immunomodulatory agents. The aim is to create a more favorable tumor microenvironment and improve overall treatment outcomes.
- Manufacturing and Commercialization Challenges: The manufacturing and commercialization of oncolytic virus therapies present unique challenges. Developing scalable and cost-effective manufacturing processes while adhering to regulatory requirements is a significant trend. Companies are also focusing on establishing partnerships and collaborations to facilitate the commercialization and distribution of oncolytic virus therapies.