Virus could wipe out cancer with double blow by killing tumour cells while triggering immune system
A bug that normally gives children the sniffles could help fight cancer.
Researchers are hopeful that reovirus, which usually causes mild colds or stomach upsets, has the power to shrink tumours.
The virus, which would be given to outpatients through a drip, could be used in future to fight diseases including skin and breast cancer.
Crucially, it seems to produce fewer side effects than conventional cancer treatments.
Human trials are being carried out and, if successful, experts predict a cancer-zapping drug based on the virus could be in widespread use in as little as three years.
University of Leeds researcher Professor Alan Melcher said: ‘Chemotherapy, radiotherapy and surgery are all valuable treatments but viruses are potentially a quite different side of treatment that could sit alongside them.’
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