AUTHOR=Zhang Jie , Liu Kepu , Zhu Zheng , Shang Shihao , Wei Di , Zheng Yu , Zhang Lei , Liang Ying , Ju Dongen , Yuan Jianlin TITLE=Innovative strategies in genitourinary cancer: the role of oncolytic viruses JOURNAL=Frontiers in Oncology VOLUME=Volume 14 - 2024 YEAR=2024 URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/oncology/articles/10.3389/fonc.2024.1461324 DOI=10.3389/fonc.2024.1461324 ISSN=2234-943X ABSTRACT=Urinary tumors pose a significant health threat because of their high prevalence and recurrence rates. Despite the availability of various treatment options, many patients poorly respond to traditional therapies, highlighting the urgent need for alternative approaches. Oncolytic viruses are promising therapeutic agents. These viruses exploit the unique characteristics of cancer cells to specifically target and destroy them, thereby triggering potent antitumor immune responses. This review delves into recent advancements and future prospects of oncolytic viruses, focusing on their application in renal, bladder, and prostate cancers. By discussing practical implications and the potential of different viruses, including the cowpox virus, adenovirus, measles virus, coxsackievirus, and reovirus, we pave the way for further exploration and refinement of this exciting field.