Using the measles
virus to kill
Cancer. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center researchers discovered some time ago that the measles virus kills many solid
tumor cancer cells while inflicting minimal damage to healthy
tissue. Neuro-
oncology investigators are now applying a unique measles virus
gene delivery system for treating glioblastoma. Current studies aim to discern the impact on cancer cells of measles virus that has been genetically modified to carry genes with cancer-killing properties. Studies defining toxicity limits of the modified measles virus are completed, and Mayo plans to commence a Phase I trial in patients with recurrent glioblastoma multiforme in early fall, 2006.