Recombinant viral vectors are disclosed that contain a nucleic acid encoding a Second Mitochondria-derived Activator of Caspases (Smac) protein inserted within an RNA virus genome, wherein the Smac protein specifically binds to at least a portion of an Inhibitor of Apoptosis Protein (IAP). Also disclosed are methods of treating cancer using the disclosed vectors.

The present invention relates to the field of oncolytic viruses and in particular to a recombinant rhabdovirus, such as vesicular stomatitis virus encoding in its genome for a CCL21 protein. The invention is further directed to the use of the recombinant virus in the treatment of cancer, and also to methods for producing such viruses.