Iran has introduced a locally developed biotechnology platform designed to engineer, produce, and purify oncolytic viruses that selectively target and destroy cancer cells. Unveiled in a ceremony attended by President Masoud Pezeshkian, the breakthrough marks the launch of the country's first clinical trial based on this advanced gene-virus technology, particularly aiming to treat cancers resistant to traditional therapies.

According to the Academic Center for Education, Culture, and Research (ACECR), the first engineered oncolytic virus under this initiative has been successfully produced at scale, demonstrating efficacy in preclinical and laboratory testing. Experts emphasize that this modular technology platform will serve as a foundation not only for next-generation oncolytic viruses, but also for future gene therapies and advanced biopharmaceuticals.