Science
Our approach
Meet HSV5-15 - a precision-engineered oncolytic herpes virus.
A herpes simplex virus, HSV-1 backbone, disarmed by two precise gene deletions, armed with a novel TLR5 agonist and a cytokine payload. Designed to kill tumour cells locally and train durable immunity systemically.
What it does
Two effects from a single therapy.
HSV5-15 is designed to act locally where the tumour is - and systemically across the body's immune system.
Local effect
Kills tumour cells locally
The virus selectively replicates inside cancer cells, lysing them in place while sparing healthy tissue.
Systemic effect
Trains durable immunity
Inserted payloads sustain innate and adaptive immune responses, building a lasting defence that travels with the patient.
How we engineer it
Two deletions that disarm. Two payloads that supercharge.
HSV5-15 is built on a HSV-1 backbone with locked-in genetic changes that prioritise safety, tumour selectivity, and immune activation.
Removed
ICP47.5 & ICP34
Two genes are precisely deleted from the HSV-1 backbone. The result: a virus that retains its powerful cancer-killing properties while being made safe and selective for tumour cells.
Inserted
Cytokine + TLR5 agonist
A specific cytokine sustains innate and adaptive immune responses, while a highly potent TLR5 agonist - identified through extensive screening - acts as a powerful adjuvant.
At a glance
How the pieces fit together.
Next
See where HSV5-15 is heading next.
From the lead NMIBC programme to discovery-stage assets in prostate, breast and sarcoma.