Oncolytic effect analysis of genetically modified NDV expressing canine GM-CSF

• Grant number: 25/01955-1
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Heidge Fukumasu
• Grantee: Ravi Sakugawa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Pirassununga , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 22/09378-5 - Development of innovative therapies and diagnostic tools for veterinary oncology, AP.TEM

Abstract

In oncology, the Newcastle disease vírus (NDV) stands out as an oncolytic and non-pathogenic agent in mammals. The use of Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF) has also shown great potential as it: stimulates the production of cytokines such as NF-¿ (Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha) and IFN-¿ (Interferon Alpha); enhances antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC); and reprograms tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs). In this context, the objective of this project is to evaluate the oncolytic effect of a genetically modified NDV expressing GM-CSF on four different canine mammary carcinoma cell lines. The study will include viral titration analysis, cytotoxicity assays, cell death assays, and protein expression evaluation of GM-CSF will be performed .