Abstract: Pharmaceutical compositions including a herpes simplex virus derived composite oncolytic vector are provided for the treatment of solid tumors in an individual. The HSV-derived composite oncolytic vector includes an HSV-derived amplicon defective viral genome carrying at least one toxic foreign gene, and an HSV-derived mutant helper virus vector that has a mutation in the vhs-1 gene. An HSV-derived mutant helper virus vector that has a mutation in the vhs-1 gene is also provided. A method for the treatment of an individual having a solid tumor is provided and includes administering an HSV-derived amplicon defective viral genome including at least one toxic foreign gene, and an HSV-derived mutant helper virus vector including a mutation in the vhs-1 gene.

Abstract: A vector is presented comprising a DNA sequence derived from HHV-6 or HHV-7, said DNA sequence comprising an origin of replication, a cleavage and packaging signal and a promoter sequence which induces expression of at least one nucleic acid sequence product in a lymphocyte cell host, wherein administration of said DNA vector to a mammal results in an immune response in said mammal. Optionally the vector comprises at least one foreign nucleic acid sequence which elcits the immune response. Also presented are cells comprising the vectors, and concatameric DNA vector produced using such vectors. In addition, methods for the production and use of the above are discribed, including pharmaceutical composiotions comprising same.

Abstract: A highly efficient and safe HSV derived composite oncolytic vector is provided for the treatment of solid tumors in an individual. The vector comprises two main components being a defective viral genome with multiple reiterations of amplicon type repeat units each carrying inducible toxic genes with cell destructive capabilities and, as a second component, an HSV mutant helper virus which is incapable of replication in non-dividing cells. The vector may be used for the treatment of various kinds of solid tumors including brain malignancies as well as lung, pancreatic, kidney, colon, stomach and other types of cancers. The provided vector is also suitable for administration to an individual in combination with an additional treatment.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new human herpesvirus-7, proteins encoded in the genome of the virus, and antibodies specific for the virus and proteins. The virus was isolated from human peripheral blood mononuclear cells following incubation of the cells under conditions promoting T cell activation. Cultures of lymphocytes infected with the virus exhibited a cytopathic effect and electron microscopic analyses revealed a characteristic herpesvirus structure. The new virus is distinct from previously characterized human herpesviruses.The invention also relates to bioassays for the diagnosis of human herpesvirus-7 and the detection of human herpesvirus-7 in a biological sample. It further relates to a vaccine for humans against human herpesvirus-7.