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Hawlina S, Zorec R, Chowdhury HH. Potential of Personalized Dendritic Cell-Based Immunohybridoma Vaccines to Treat Prostate Cancer. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1498. [PMID: 37511873 PMCID: PMC10382052 DOI: 10.3390/life13071498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second most common cause of death due to cancer. About 30% of patients with PCa who have been castrated develop a castration-resistant form of the disease (CRPC), which is incurable. In the last decade, new treatments that control the disease have emerged, slowing progression and spread and prolonging survival while maintaining the quality of life. These include immunotherapies; however, we do not yet know the optimal combination and sequence of these therapies with the standard ones. All therapies are not always suitable for every patient due to co-morbidities or adverse effects of therapies or both, so there is an urgent need for further work on new therapeutic options. Advances in cancer immunotherapy with an immune checkpoint inhibition mechanism (e.g., ipilimumab, an anti-CTLA-4 inhibitor) have not shown a survival benefit in patients with CRPC. Other immunological approaches have also not given clear results, which has indirectly prevented breakthrough for this type of therapeutic strategy into clinical use. Currently, the only approved form of immunotherapy for patients with CRPC is a cell-based medicine, but it is only available to patients in some parts of the world. Based on what was gained from recently completed clinical research on immunotherapy with dendritic cell-based immunohybridomas, the aHyC dendritic cell vaccine for patients with CRPC, we highlight the current status and possible alternatives that should be considered in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Hawlina
- Clinical Department of Urology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Robert Zorec
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica Biomedical, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Helena H Chowdhury
- Laboratory of Cell Engineering, Celica Biomedical, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology-Molecular Cell Physiology, Institute of Pathophysiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Gamat-Huber M, Jeon D, Johnson LE, Moseman JE, Muralidhar A, Potluri HK, Rastogi I, Wargowski E, Zahm CD, McNeel DG. Treatment Combinations with DNA Vaccines for the Treatment of Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer (mCRPC). Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12102831. [PMID: 33008010 PMCID: PMC7601088 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12102831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary The only vaccine approved by FDA as a treatment for cancer is sipuleucel-T, a therapy for patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Most investigators studying anti-tumor vaccines believe they will be most effective as parts of combination therapies, rather than used alone. Unfortunately, the cost and complexity of sipuleucel-T makes it difficult to feasibly be used in combination with many other agents. In this review article we discuss the use of DNA vaccines as a simpler vaccine approach that has demonstrated efficacy in several animal species. We discuss the use of DNA vaccines in combination with traditional treatments for mCRPC, and other immune-modulating treatments, in preclinical and early clinical trials for patients with mCRPC. Abstract Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) is a challenging disease to treat, with poor outcomes for patients. One antitumor vaccine, sipuleucel-T, has been approved as a treatment for mCRPC. DNA vaccines are another form of immunotherapy under investigation. DNA immunizations elicit antigen-specific T cells that cause tumor cell lysis, which should translate to meaningful clinical responses. They are easily amenable to design alterations, scalable for large-scale manufacturing, and thermo-stable for easy transport and distribution. Hence, they offer advantages over other vaccine formulations. However, clinical trials with DNA vaccines as a monotherapy have shown only modest clinical effects against tumors. Standard therapies for CRPC including androgen-targeted therapies, radiation therapy and chemotherapy all have immunomodulatory effects, which combined with immunotherapies such as DNA vaccines, could potentially improve treatment. In addition, many investigational drugs are being developed which can augment antitumor immunity, and together with DNA vaccines can further enhance antitumor responses in preclinical models. We reviewed the literature available prior to July 2020 exploring the use of DNA vaccines in the treatment of prostate cancer. We also examined various approved and experimental therapies that could be combined with DNA vaccines to potentially improve their antitumor efficacy as treatments for mCRPC.
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Kiełbik A, Szlasa W, Saczko J, Kulbacka J. Electroporation-Based Treatments in Urology. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:E2208. [PMID: 32784598 PMCID: PMC7465806 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12082208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The observation that an application of a pulsed electric field (PEF) resulted in an increased permeability of the cell membrane has led to the discovery of the phenomenon called electroporation (EP). Depending on the parameters of the electric current and cell features, electroporation can be either reversible or irreversible. The irreversible electroporation (IRE) found its use in urology as a non-thermal ablative method of prostate and renal cancer. As its mechanism is based on the permeabilization of cell membrane phospholipids, IRE (as well as other treatments based on EP) provides selectivity sparing extracellular proteins and matrix. Reversible EP enables the transfer of genes, drugs, and small exogenous proteins. In clinical practice, reversible EP can locally increase the uptake of cytotoxic drugs such as cisplatin and bleomycin. This approach is known as electrochemotherapy (ECT). Few in vivo and in vitro trials of ECT have been performed on urological cancers. EP provides the possibility of transmission of genes across the cell membrane. As the protocols of gene electrotransfer (GET) over the last few years have improved, EP has become a well-known technique for non-viral cell transfection. GET involves DNA transfection directly to the cancer or the host skin and muscle tissue. Among urological cancers, the GET of several plasmids encoding prostate cancer antigens has been investigated in clinical trials. This review brings into discussion the underlying mechanism of EP and an overview of the latest progress and development perspectives of EP-based treatments in urology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksander Kiełbik
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.K.); (W.S.)
| | - Wojciech Szlasa
- Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-367 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.K.); (W.S.)
| | - Jolanta Saczko
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
| | - Julita Kulbacka
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Wroclaw Medical University, 50-556 Wroclaw, Poland;
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Moradi A, Srinivasan S, Clements J, Batra J. Beyond the biomarker role: prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in the prostate cancer microenvironment. Cancer Metastasis Rev 2020; 38:333-346. [PMID: 31659564 DOI: 10.1007/s10555-019-09815-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test is the accepted biomarker of tumor recurrence. PSA levels in serum correlate with disease progression, though its diagnostic accuracy is questionable. As a result, significant progress has been made in developing modified PSA tests such as PSA velocity, PSA density, 4Kscore, PSA glycoprofiling, Prostate Health Index, and the STHLM3 test. PSA, a serine protease, is secreted from the epithelial cells of the prostate. PSA has been suggested as a molecular target for prostate cancer therapy due to the fact that it is not only active in prostate tissue but also has a pivotal role on prostate cancer signaling pathways including proliferation, invasion, metastasis, angiogenesis, apoptosis, immune response, and tumor microenvironment regulation. Here, we summarize the current standing of PSA in prostate cancer progression as well as its utility in prostate cancer therapeutic approaches with an emphasis on the role of PSA in the tumor microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Afshin Moradi
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Srilakshmi Srinivasan
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Judith Clements
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.,Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Jyotsna Batra
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health, Institute of Health and Biomedical Innovation, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia. .,Translational Research Institute, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia.
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Abstract
DNA vaccines offer many advantages over other anti-tumor vaccine approaches due to their simplicity, ease of manufacturing, and safety. Results from several clinical trials in patients with cancer have demonstrated that DNA vaccines are safe and can elicit immune responses. However, to date few DNA vaccines have progressed beyond phase I clinical trial evaluation. Studies into the mechanism of action of DNA vaccines in terms of antigen-presenting cell types able to directly present or cross-present DNA-encoded antigens, and the activation of innate immune responses due to DNA itself, have suggested opportunities to increase the immunogenicity of these vaccines. In addition, studies into the mechanisms of tumor resistance to anti-tumor vaccination have suggested combination approaches that can increase the anti-tumor effect of DNA vaccines. This review focuses on these mechanisms of action and mechanisms of resistance using DNA vaccines, and how this information is being used to improve the anti-tumor effect of DNA vaccines. These approaches are then specifically discussed in the context of human prostate cancer, a disease for which DNA vaccines have been and continue to be explored as treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher D Zahm
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, United States
| | - Viswa Teja Colluru
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, United States
| | - Douglas G McNeel
- Carbone Cancer Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53705, United States.
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Wei XX, Chan S, Kwek S, Lewis J, Dao V, Zhang L, Cooperberg MR, Ryan CJ, Lin AM, Friedlander TW, Rini B, Kane C, Simko JP, Carroll PR, Small EJ, Fong L. Systemic GM-CSF Recruits Effector T Cells into the Tumor Microenvironment in Localized Prostate Cancer. Cancer Immunol Res 2016; 4:948-958. [PMID: 27688020 DOI: 10.1158/2326-6066.cir-16-0042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/29/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Granulocytic-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) is used as an adjuvant in cancer vaccine trials and has the potential to enhance antitumor efficacy with immunotherapy; however, its immunologic effects are not fully understood. Here, we report results from a phase I study of neoadjuvant GM-CSF in patients with localized prostate cancer undergoing radical prostatectomy. Patients received subcutaneous injections of GM-CSF (250 μg/m2/day) daily for 2 weeks (cohort 1; n = 6), 3 weeks (cohort 2; n = 6), or 4 weeks (cohort 3; n = 6). Treatment was well tolerated with all grade 1 or 2 adverse events. Two patients had a decline in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) of more than 50%. GM-CSF treatment increased the numbers of circulating mature myeloid dendritic cells, proliferating conventional CD4 T cells, proliferating CD8 T cells, and to a lesser magnitude FoxP3+ regulatory CD4 T cells. Although GM-CSF treatment did not augment antigen-presenting cell localization to the prostate, treatment was associated with recruitment of CD8+ T cells to the tumor. These results suggest that systemic GM-CSF can modulate T-cell infiltration in the tumor microenvironment. Cancer Immunol Res; 4(11); 948-58. ©2016 AACR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao X Wei
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Stephen Chan
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Serena Kwek
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Jera Lewis
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Vinh Dao
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Li Zhang
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Matthew R Cooperberg
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Charles J Ryan
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Amy M Lin
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Terence W Friedlander
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Brian Rini
- Department of Hematology and Medical Oncology Cleveland, Clinic Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Christopher Kane
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Jeffry P Simko
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Anatomic Pathology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Peter R Carroll
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Eric J Small
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California.,Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Lawrence Fong
- University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California. .,Division of Hematology/Oncology, University of California, San Francisco Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, San Francisco, California
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Tiptiri-Kourpeti A, Spyridopoulou K, Pappa A, Chlichlia K. DNA vaccines to attack cancer: Strategies for improving immunogenicity and efficacy. Pharmacol Ther 2016; 165:32-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharmthera.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Avgeris M, Scorilas A. Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) as emerging therapeutic targets: focus on prostate cancer and skin pathologies. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2016; 20:801-18. [PMID: 26941073 DOI: 10.1517/14728222.2016.1147560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Tissue kallikrein and the kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) constitute a family of 15 homologous secreted serine proteases with trypsin- or chymotrypsin-like activities, which participate in a broad spectrum of physiological procedures. Deregulated expression and/or activation of the majority of the family members have been reported in several human diseases, thereby making KLKs ideal targets for therapeutic intervention. AREAS COVERED In the present review, we summarize the role of KLKs in normal human physiology and pathology, focusing on prostate cancer and skin diseases. Furthermore, we discuss the recent advances in the development of KLK-based therapies. A great number of diverse engineered KLKs inhibitors with improved potency, selectivity and immunogenicity have been synthesized by redesigning examples that are endogenous and naturally occurring. Moreover, encouraging results have been documented using KLKs-based vaccines and immunotherapies, as well as KLKs-mediated activation of pro-drugs. Finally, KLKs-targeting aptamers and KLKs-based imaging tools represent novel approaches towards the exploitation of KLKs' therapeutic value. EXPERT OPINION The central/critical roles of KLK family in several human pathologies highlight KLKs as attractive molecular targets for developing novel therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaritis Avgeris
- a Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology , University of Athens , Athens , Greece
| | - Andreas Scorilas
- a Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology , University of Athens , Athens , Greece
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Kim SB, Ahn JH, Kim J, Jung KH. A phase 1 study of a heterologous prime-boost vaccination involving a truncated HER2 sequence in patients with HER2-expressing breast cancer. MOLECULAR THERAPY-METHODS & CLINICAL DEVELOPMENT 2015; 2:15031. [PMID: 26445724 PMCID: PMC4588449 DOI: 10.1038/mtm.2015.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Revised: 07/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
A phase 1 clinical trial was conducted to assess the safety, tolerability, and preliminary efficacy of a heterologous prime-boost strategy involving plasmid DNA (pHM-GM-CSF, expressing truncated human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) and granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulation factor (GM-CSF) as a bicistronic message) and an adenoviral vector (Ad-HM, containing the same modified HER2 sequence only), in patients with stage III–IV metastatic breast cancer expressing HER2. Nine eligible subjects were divided into three cohorts based on the dosages (2, 4, and 8 mg/patient/visit) of pHM-GM-CSF used as the primer, which was intramuscularly injected three times at weeks 0, 2, and 4. It was followed by a single injection of Ad-HM (3 × 109 virus particles), used as a booster, at week 6. During the 6-month follow-up period, adverse events (AEs), pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, and HER2-specific cellular and humoral immune responses were evaluated. Seven cases of minor grade 1 toxicities in four of nine subjects and no serious drug-related AEs were reported. HER2-specific cell-mediated or humoral immunity was produced in all (100%) or three subjects (33%), respectively. One subject showed a partial response, and seven subjects had stable diseases. However, there were no differences in clinical tumor response and HER2-specific immune responses among the cohorts. These results showed that intramuscular injections of pHM-GM-CSF and Ad-HM were well tolerated and safe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung-Bae Kim
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Songpa-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin-Hee Ahn
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Songpa-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jeongeun Kim
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Songpa-Gu, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kyung Hae Jung
- Department of Oncology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine , Songpa-Gu, Seoul, Korea
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10
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Senovilla L, Vacchelli E, Garcia P, Eggermont A, Fridman WH, Galon J, Zitvogel L, Kroemer G, Galluzzi L. Trial watch: DNA vaccines for cancer therapy. Oncoimmunology 2014; 2:e23803. [PMID: 23734328 PMCID: PMC3654598 DOI: 10.4161/onci.23803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The foundation of modern vaccinology dates back to the 1790s, when the English physician Edward Jenner uncovered the tremendous medical potential of prophylactic vaccination. Jenner’s work ignited a wave of nationwide vaccination campaigns abating the incidence of multiple life-threatening infectious diseases and culminating with the eradication of natural smallpox virus, which was definitively certified by the WHO in 1980. The possibility of using vaccines against cancer was first proposed at the end of the 19th century by Paul Ehrlich and William Coley. However, it was not until the 1990s that such a hypothesis began to be intensively investigated, following the realization that the immune system is not completely unresponsive to tumors and that neoplastic cells express immunogenic tumor-associated antigens (TAAs). Nowadays, anticancer vaccines are rapidly moving from the bench to the bedside, and a few prophylactic and therapeutic preparations have already been approved by FDA for use in humans. In this setting, one interesting approach is constituted by DNA vaccines, i.e., TAA-encoding circularized DNA constructs, often of bacterial origin, that are delivered to patients as such or by means of specific vectors, including (but not limited to) liposomal preparations, nanoparticles, bacteria and viruses. The administration of DNA vaccines is most often performed via the intramuscular or subcutaneous route and is expected to cause (1) the endogenous synthesis of the TAA by myocytes and/or resident antigen-presenting cells; (2) the presentation of TAA-derived peptides on the cell surface, in association with MHC class I molecules; and (3) the activation of potentially therapeutic tumor-specific immune responses. In this Trial Watch, we will summarize the results of recent clinical trials that have evaluated/are evaluating DNA vaccines as therapeutic interventions against cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Senovilla
- Institut Gustave Roussy; Villejuif, France ; INSERM; U848; Villejuif, France ; INSERM; U1015 labelisée par la Ligue Nationale contre le Cancer; CICBT507; Villejuif, France
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11
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Colluru VT, Johnson LE, Olson BM, McNeel DG. Preclinical and clinical development of DNA vaccines for prostate cancer. Urol Oncol 2013; 34:193-204. [PMID: 24332642 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2013.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 09/12/2013] [Accepted: 09/13/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the United States. It is also the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men, making it one of the largest public health concerns today. Prostate cancer is an ideal disease for immunotherapies because of the generally slow progression, the dispensability of the target organ in the patient population, and the availability of several tissue-specific antigens. As such, several therapeutic vaccines have entered clinical trials, with one autologous cellular vaccine (sipuleucel-T) recently gaining Food and Drug Administration approval after demonstrating overall survival benefit in randomized phase III clinical trials. DNA-based vaccines are safe, economical, alternative "off-the-shelf" approaches that have undergone extensive evaluation in preclinical models. In fact, the first vaccine approved in the United States for the treatment of cancer was a DNA vaccine for canine melanoma. Several prostate cancer-specific DNA vaccines have been developed in the last decade and have shown promising results in early phase clinical trials. This review summarizes anticancer human DNA vaccine trials, with a focus on those conducted for prostate cancer. We conclude with an outline of special considerations important for the development and successful translation of DNA vaccines from the laboratory to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- V T Colluru
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
| | - Laura E Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
| | - Brian M Olson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI
| | - Douglas G McNeel
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, Madison, WI.
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12
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DNA vaccine coding for the rhesus prostate specific antigen delivered by intradermal electroporation in patients with relapsed prostate cancer. Vaccine 2013; 31:3843-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2013.06.063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2013] [Revised: 06/07/2013] [Accepted: 06/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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13
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Daniels-Wells TR, Helguera G, Leuchter RK, Quintero R, Kozman M, Rodríguez JA, Ortiz-Sánchez E, Martínez-Maza O, Schultes BC, Nicodemus CF, Penichet ML. A novel IgE antibody targeting the prostate-specific antigen as a potential prostate cancer therapy. BMC Cancer 2013; 13:195. [PMID: 23594731 PMCID: PMC3651304 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-13-195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2013] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the United States. The prostate-specific antigen (PSA), often found at high levels in the serum of PCa patients, has been used as a marker for PCa detection and as a target of immunotherapy. The murine IgG1 monoclonal antibody AR47.47, specific for human PSA, has been shown to enhance antigen presentation by human dendritic cells and induce both CD4 and CD8 T-cell activation when complexed with PSA. In this study, we explored the properties of a novel mouse/human chimeric anti-PSA IgE containing the variable regions of AR47.47 as a potential therapy for PCa. Our goal was to take advantage of the unique properties of IgE in order to trigger immune activation against PCa. METHODS Binding characteristics of the antibody were determined by ELISA and flow cytometry. In vitro degranulation was determined by the release of β-hexosaminidase from effector cells. In vivo degranulation was monitored in human FcεRIα transgenic mice using the passive cutaneous anaphylaxis assay. These mice were also used for a vaccination study to determine the in vivo anti-cancer effects of this antibody. Significant differences in survival were determined using the Log Rank test. In vitro T-cell activation was studied using human dendritic cells and autologous T cells. RESULTS The anti-PSA IgE, expressed in murine myeloma cells, is properly assembled and secreted, and binds the antigen and FcεRI. In addition, this antibody is capable of triggering effector cell degranulation in vitro and in vivo when artificially cross-linked, but not in the presence of the natural soluble antigen, suggesting that such an interaction will not trigger systemic anaphylaxis. Importantly, the anti-PSA IgE combined with PSA also triggers immune activation in vitro and in vivo and significantly prolongs the survival of human FcεRIα transgenic mice challenged with PSA-expressing tumors in a prophylactic vaccination setting. CONCLUSIONS The anti-PSA IgE exhibits the expected biological properties and is capable of triggering immune activation and anti-tumor protection. Further studies on this antibody as a potential PCa therapy are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracy R Daniels-Wells
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Gustavo Helguera
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Current Affiliation: School of Pharmacy and Biochemistry, University of Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Richard K Leuchter
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Rafaela Quintero
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Maggie Kozman
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - José A Rodríguez
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- The Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Elizabeth Ortiz-Sánchez
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Current Affiliation: Unit of Biomedical Research in Cancer, Basic Research Division, National Institute of Cancerology, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Otoniel Martínez-Maza
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Epidemiology, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Birgit C Schultes
- Advanced Immune Therapeutics, Inc, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Current Affiliation: Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Christopher F Nicodemus
- Advanced Immune Therapeutics, Inc, Charlestown, MA, USA
- Current Affiliation: AIT Strategies, Franconia, NH, USA
| | - Manuel L Penichet
- Division of Surgical Oncology, Department of Surgery, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- The Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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14
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McNeel DG, Becker JT, Johnson LE, Olson BM. DNA Vaccines for Prostate Cancer. CURRENT CANCER THERAPY REVIEWS 2012; 8:254-263. [PMID: 24587772 DOI: 10.2174/157339412804143113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Delivery of plasmid DNA encoding an antigen of interest has been demonstrated to be an effective means of immunization, capable of eliciting antigen-specific T cells. Plasmid DNA vaccines offer advantages over other anti-tumor vaccine approaches in terms of simplicity, manufacturing, and possibly safety. The primary disadvantage is their poor transfection efficiency and subsequent lower immunogenicity relative to other genetic vaccine approaches. However, multiple preclinical models demonstrate anti-tumor efficacy, and many efforts are underway to improve the immunogenicity and anti-tumor effect of these vaccines. Clinical trials using DNA vaccines as treatments for prostate cancer have begun, and to date have demonstrated safety and immunological effect. This review will focus on DNA vaccines as a specific means of antigen delivery, advantages and disadvantages of this type of immunization, previous experience in preclinical models and human trials specifically conducted for the treatment of prostate cancer, and future directions for the application of DNA vaccines to prostate cancer immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas G McNeel
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Jordan T Becker
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Laura E Johnson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - Brian M Olson
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Cancer Center, 1111 Highland Avenue, Madison, WI 53705, USA
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Vaccines targeting the cancer-testis antigen SSX-2 elicit HLA-A2 epitope-specific cytolytic T cells. J Immunother 2012; 34:569-80. [PMID: 21904219 DOI: 10.1097/cji.0b013e31822b5b1d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The cancer-testis antigen synovial sarcoma X breakpoint-2 (SSX-2) is a potentially attractive target for tumor immunotherapy based upon its tissue-restricted expression to germline cells and its frequent expression in malignancies. The goal of this study was to evaluate genetic vaccine encoding SSX-2 to prioritize human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-A2-specific epitopes and determine if a DNA vaccine can elicit SSX-2-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) capable of lysing prostate cancer cells. HLA-A2-restricted epitopes were identified based on their in vitro binding affinity for HLA-A2 and by the ability of a genetic vaccine to elicit peptide-specific CTL in A2/DR1 (HLA-A2.1+/HLA-DR1+/H-2 class I-/class II-knockout) transgenic mice. We found that SSX-2 peptides p41-49 (KASEKIFYV) and p103-111 (RLQGISPKI) had high affinity for HLA-A2 and were immunogenic in vivo; however, peptide p103-111 was immunodominant with robust peptide-specific immune responses elicited in mice vaccinated with a plasmid DNA vaccine encoding SSX-2. Furthermore, p103-111-specific CTLs were able to lyse an HLA-A2+ prostate cancer cell line. The immunodominance of this epitope was found not to be due to a putative HLA-DR1 epitope (p98-112) flanking p103-111. Finally, we demonstrated that SSX-2 epitope-specific CTLs could be detected and cultured from the peripheral blood of HLA-A2+ prostate cancer patients, notably patients with advanced prostate cancer. Overall, we conclude that SSX-2 peptide p103-111 is an immunodominant HLA-A2-restricted epitope, and epitope-specific CD8 T cells can be detected in patients with prostate cancer, suggesting that tolerance to SSX-2 can be circumvented in vivo. Together, these findings suggest that SSX-2 may be a relevant target antigen for prostate cancer vaccine approaches.
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Immunostimulatory CpG-DNA and PSA-peptide vaccination elicits profound cytotoxic T cell responses. Urol Oncol 2011; 31:1395-401. [PMID: 21982682 DOI: 10.1016/j.urolonc.2011.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2011] [Revised: 09/02/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Novel strategies for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer (CaP), including immunotherapy or gene therapy, are currently under evaluation with Sipuleucel-T as first FDA-approved immunotherapeutic. Here, we examine cytosine-phosphorothioate-guanine (CpG)-DNA oligonucleotides (ODN) to boost cytokine responses and costimulatory molecule expression on murine bone marrow-derived dendritic cells (mBMDC). Furthermore, we evaluate the potency of a PSA-peptide based vaccine in combination with CpG-DNA to elicit specific cytotoxic T cell (CTL) responses. MATERIALS AND METHODS mBMDC were stimulated with CpG-DNA (1668: 5'-TCCATGACGTTCCTGATGCT-3') or non-stimulatory control-ODN (1720: 5'-TCCATGAGCTTCCTGATGCT-3'). Subsequently, expression of the costimulatory molecules CD40 and CD86 and induction of proinflammatory cytokines (interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-12) were analyzed. For induction of PSA-peptide specific CTL, female C57BL/6 mice were immunized with PSA-peptide 65-73 (HCIRNKSVI) alone or in combination with 1668 or 1720-ODN. In vivo cytotoxicity assay determined PSA-peptide specific cytotoxicity 1 week after vaccination. RESULTS Treatment of mBMDC with stimulatory CpG-DNA ODN resulted in pronounced up-regulation of costimulatory molecule expression on mBMDC in a dose-dependent manner. CpG-ODN significantly increased production of IL-6 and IL-12 in mBMDC (P < 0.001). Induction of PSA-peptide specific CTL responses in mice immunized with PSA-peptide and CpG-DNA were significantly greater than those of PSA-peptide and control-ODN immunized mice or PSA-peptide only vaccination. CONCLUSIONS CpG-DNA acts as potent adjuvant for vaccination therapies and elicits profound PSA-peptide specific CTL responses in combination with an immunodominant PSA-peptide. CpG-ODN mediated immunotherapy represents a potentially inexpensive, safe, easy-to-produce, and easy-to-handle treatment alternative. Therefore, further evaluation of CpG-DNA in immunization therapies against CaP is warranted.
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17
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DNA fusion gene vaccines induce cytotoxic T-cell attack on naturally processed peptides of human prostate-specific membrane antigen. Eur J Immunol 2011; 41:2447-56. [DOI: 10.1002/eji.201141518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2011] [Revised: 04/13/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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18
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Shanmugam A, Suriano R, Chaudhuri D, Rajoria S, George A, Mittelman A, Tiwari RK. Identification of PSA peptide mimotopes using phage display peptide library. Peptides 2011; 32:1097-102. [PMID: 21539876 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2011.04.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2010] [Revised: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/16/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common types of cancer in men in the United States and is the second leading cause of cancer related death in men. Clinically, secreted prostate specific antigen (PSA) has gained recognition because of its proteolytic activity being directly linked to PCa cell proliferation leading to disease initiation and progression. Using phage display technology, we identified four distinct cyclical peptides. These peptides apart from differences in their amino acid sequence, elicited minimal cross reactive antibody responses against each other. One of the four peptides analyzed produced an antibody response that recognizes the PSA protein. We demonstrate that the synthetic PSA peptide mimics identified in our study are immunologically active and produce neutralizing activity and this has relevance and utility for prostate cancer disease progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arulkumaran Shanmugam
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York 10595, USA
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19
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Movsesyan N, Davtyan H, Mkrtichyan M, Petrushina I, Tiraturyan T, Ross T, Agadjanyan MG, Ghochikyan A, Cribbs DH. Low concentrations of anti-Aβ antibodies generated in Tg2576 mice by DNA epitope vaccine fused with 3C3d molecular adjuvant do not affect AD pathology. Hum Gene Ther 2011; 21:1569-76. [PMID: 20528468 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2009.219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been demonstrated that an active vaccination strategy with protein- or DNA-based epitope vaccines composed of the immunodominant self B cell epitope of amyloid-β₄₂ (Aβ₄₂) and a non-self T helper (Th) cell epitope is an immunotherapeutic approach to preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease (AD). As a DNA-based epitope vaccine, we used a plasmid encoding three copies of Aβ(1-11) and Th cell epitope, PADRE (p3Aβ(1-11)-PADRE). We have previously reported that three copies of component of complement C3d (3C3d) acts as a molecular adjuvant significantly enhancing immune responses in wild-type mice of the H2(b) haplotype immunized with p3Aβ(1-11)-PADRE. Here, we tested the efficacy of p3Aβ(1-11)-PADRE and the same vaccine fused with 3C3d (p3Aβ(1-11)-PADRE-3C3d) in a transgenic (Tg) mouse model of AD (Tg2576) of the H2(bxs) immune haplotype. The overall responses to both vaccines were very weak in Tg2576 mice despite the fact that the 3C3d molecular adjuvant significantly enhanced the anti-Aβ response to 3Aβ(1-11)-PADRE. Importantly, generation of low antibody responses was associated with the strain of amyloid precursor protein Tg mice rather than with a molecular adjuvant, as a p3Aβ(1-11)-PADRE-3C3d vaccine induced significantly higher antibody production in another AD mouse model, 3xTg-AD of the H2(b) haplotype. Finally, this study demonstrated that low concentrations of antibodies generated by both DNA vaccines were not sufficient for the reduction of Aβ pathology in the brains of vaccinated Tg2576 animals, confirming previous reports from preclinical studies and the AN-1792 clinical trials, which concluded that the concentration of anti-Aβ antibodies may be essential for the reduction of AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Movsesyan
- Department of Molecular Immunology, Institute for Molecular Medicine, Huntington Beach, CA 92647, USA
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20
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Immunization with recombinant DNA and modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) vectors delivering PSCA and STEAP1 antigens inhibits prostate cancer progression. Vaccine 2011; 29:1504-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2010.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2010] [Revised: 12/01/2010] [Accepted: 12/05/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
Prostate cancer is a significant public health problem, and the most commonly diagnosed cancer in the USA. The long natural history of prostate cancer, the presence of a serum biomarker that can be used to detect very early recurrences, and the previous identification of multiple potential tissue-specific target antigens are all features that make this disease suitable for the development of anti-tumor vaccines. To date, many anti-tumor vaccines have entered clinical testing for patients with prostate cancer, and some have demonstrated clinical benefit. DNA vaccines represent one vaccine approach that has been evaluated in multiple preclinical models and clinical trials. The safety, specificity for the target antigen, ease of manufacturing and ease of incorporating other immune-modulating approaches make DNA vaccines particularly relevant for future development. This article focuses on DNA vaccines specifically in the context of prostate cancer treatment, focusing on antigens targeted in preclinical models, recent clinical trials and efforts to improve the potency of these vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheeba Alam
- Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center, Madison, WI, USA
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22
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Kallikrein-related peptidases: bridges between immune functions and extracellular matrix degradation. Biol Chem 2010; 391:321-31. [PMID: 20180637 DOI: 10.1515/bc.2010.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Kallikrein-related peptidases (KLKs) constitute a family of 15 highly conserved serine proteases encoded by the largest uninterrupted cluster of protease-encoding genes within the human genome. Recent studies, mostly relying on in vitro proteolysis of recombinant proteins, have suggested that KLK activities are regulated by proteolytic activation cascades that can operate in a tissue-specific manner, such as the semen liquefaction and skin desquamation cascades. The validity of KLK activation cascades in vivo largely remains to be demonstrated. Here, we focus on recent investigations showing that KLKs represent interesting players in the broader field of immunology based on their ability to bridge their inherent ability to degrade the extracellular matrix with major functions of the immune system. More specifically, KLKs assist in the infiltration of immune cells through the skin and the blood brain barrier, whereas they catalyze the generation of antimicrobial peptides by proteolytic activation and further processing of protein precursors. In an attempt to integrate current knowledge, we propose KLK-mediated pathways that are putatively involved in inflammation associated with skin wounding and central nervous system disorders, including multiple sclerosis. Finally, we present evidence of KLK participation in autoimmune diseases and allergies.
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TAA polyepitope DNA-based vaccines: a potential tool for cancer therapy. J Biomed Biotechnol 2010; 2010:102758. [PMID: 20617190 PMCID: PMC2896612 DOI: 10.1155/2010/102758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2010] [Accepted: 04/27/2010] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
DNA-based cancer vaccines represent an attractive strategy for inducing immunity to tumor associated antigens (TAAs) in cancer patients. The demonstration that the delivery of a recombinant plasmid encoding epitopes can lead to epitope production, processing, and presentation to CD8+ T-lymphocytes, and the advantage of using a single DNA construct encoding multiple epitopes of one or more TAAs to elicit a broad spectrum of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes has encouraged the development of a variety of strategies aimed at increasing immunogenicity of TAA polyepitope DNA-based vaccines. The polyepitope DNA-based cancer vaccine approach can (a) circumvent the variability of peptide presentation by tumor cells, (b) allow the introduction in the plasmid construct of multiple immunogenic epitopes including heteroclitic epitope versions, and (c) permit to enroll patients with different major histocompatibility complex (MHC) haplotypes. This review will discuss the rationale for using the TAA polyepitope DNA-based vaccination strategy and recent results corroborating the usefulness of DNA encoding polyepitope vaccines as a potential tool for cancer therapy.
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Abstract
Much progress has been made in the prevention and therapy of premalignant and malignant dysplasia caused by human papillomavirus by encouraging screening programs and recently by introducing preventive vaccines. To further reduce the worldwide burden of HPV-associated cancer supplementation of the established therapies with immunotherapeutic methods would have the potential for significant impact. Dysplastic epithelial lesions and cancer of the anogenital and the oropharyngeal region show strong association with HPV. Therefore cervical carcinoma and HPV-associated squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck differ from most other malignancies in that they harbour HPV-derived antigens. Expression of the viral oncogenes is mandatory to maintain the cancerous phenotype. These antigens are unique to the tumour and attractive targets for "proof of concept" studies in the development of therapeutic vaccines showing the general applicability of tumour vaccination and prove the correlation of immune response and clinical response. To date numerous clinical trials have been performed with candidate vaccines predominantly testing the efficacy for cervical cancer and its precursors. Although a naturally induced anti-HPV T cell response in patients was shown, clinical success of therapeutic vaccines was sparse. This may be attributed to immunosuppression, immunoselection, and immunoediting by the tumour cells. Factors of the individual that led to the failure of autonomous clearance of the initial infection may also contribute. Overriding this failure, reversing immunosuppression and application of vaccines in early stages of the disease is the key task for the future. The aim of this article is to summarize recent developments of therapeutic vaccines and discuss obstacles that hinder their success.
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25
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DNA vaccines: developing new strategies against cancer. J Biomed Biotechnol 2010; 2010:174378. [PMID: 20368780 PMCID: PMC2846346 DOI: 10.1155/2010/174378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2009] [Accepted: 02/05/2010] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Due to their rapid and widespread development, DNA vaccines have entered into a variety of human clinical trials for vaccines against various diseases including cancer. Evidence that DNA vaccines are well tolerated and have an excellent safety profile proved to be of advantage as many clinical trials combines the first phase with the second, saving both time and money. It is clear from the results obtained in clinical trials that such DNA vaccines require much improvement in antigen expression and delivery methods to make them sufficiently effective in the clinic. Similarly, it is clear that additional strategies are required to activate effective immunity against poorly immunogenic tumor antigens. Engineering vaccine design for manipulating antigen presentation and processing pathways is one of the most important aspects that can be easily handled in the DNA vaccine technology. Several approaches have been investigated including DNA vaccine engineering, co-delivery of immunomodulatory molecules, safe routes of administration, prime-boost regimen and strategies to break the immunosuppressive networks mechanisms adopted by malignant cells to prevent immune cell function. Combined or single strategies to enhance the efficacy and immunogenicity of DNA vaccines are applied in completed and ongoing clinical trials, where the safety and tolerability of the DNA platform are substantiated.
In this review on DNA vaccines, salient aspects on this topic going from basic research to the clinic are evaluated. Some representative DNA cancer vaccine studies are also discussed.
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26
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van den Berg JH, Quaak SGL, Beijnen JH, Hennink WE, Storm G, Schumacher TN, Haanen JBAG, Nuijen B. Lipopolysaccharide contamination in intradermal DNA vaccination: toxic impurity or adjuvant? Int J Pharm 2009; 390:32-6. [PMID: 19576975 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2009.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2009] [Revised: 06/22/2009] [Accepted: 06/23/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are known both as potential adjuvants for vaccines and as toxic impurity in pharmaceutical preparations. The aim of this study was to assess the role of LPS in intradermal DNA vaccination administered by DNA tattooing. METHOD Mice were vaccinated with a model DNA vaccine (Luc-NP) with an increasing content of residual LPS. The effect of LPS on systemic toxicity, antigen expression and cellular immunity was studied. RESULTS The presence of LPS in the DNA vaccine neither induced systemic toxicity (as reflected by IL-6 concentration in serum), nor influenced antigen expression (measured by intravital imaging). Higher LPS contents however, appeared to be associated with an elevated cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response but without reaching statistical significance. Interestingly, the DNA tattoo procedure by itself was shown to induce a serum cytokine response that was at least as potent as that induced by parenteral LPS administration. CONCLUSION LPS does not show toxicity in mice vaccinated by DNA tattooing at dose levels well above those encountered in GMP-grade DNA preparations. Thus, residual LPS levels in the pharmaceutical range are not expected to adversely affect clinical outcome of vaccination trials and may in fact have some beneficial adjuvant effect. The observed pro-inflammatory effects of DNA tattoo may help explain the high immunogenicity of this procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joost H van den Berg
- Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology, Slotervaart Hospital/the Netherlands Cancer Institute, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Mander A, Chowdhury F, Low L, Ottensmeier CH. Fit for purpose? A case study: validation of immunological endpoint assays for the detection of cellular and humoral responses to anti-tumour DNA fusion vaccines. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2009; 58:789-800. [PMID: 19066888 PMCID: PMC11030632 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-008-0633-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2008] [Accepted: 11/13/2008] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Clinical trials are governed by an increasingly stringent regulatory framework, which applies to all levels of trial conduct. Study critical immunological endpoints, which define success or failure in early phase clinical immunological trials, require formal pre-trial validation. In this case study, we describe the assay validation process, during which the sensitivity, and precision of immunological endpoint assays were defined. The purpose was the evaluation of two multicentre phase I/II clinical trials from our unit in Southampton, UK, which assess the effects of DNA fusion vaccines on immune responses in HLA-A2+ patients with carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)-expressing malignancies and prostate cancer. Validated immunomonitoring is being performed using ELISA and IFNgamma ELISPOTs to assess humoral and cellular responses to the vaccines over time. The validated primary endpoint assay, a peptide-specific CD8+ IFNgamma ELISPOT, was tested in a pre-trial study and found to be suitable for the detection of low frequency naturally occurring CEA- and prostate-derived tumour-antigen-specific T cells in patients with CEA-expressing malignancies and prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Mander
- Cancer Sciences Division, School of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK.
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28
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Bodles-Brakhop AM, Heller R, Draghia-Akli R. Electroporation for the delivery of DNA-based vaccines and immunotherapeutics: current clinical developments. Mol Ther 2009; 17:585-92. [PMID: 19223870 PMCID: PMC2835112 DOI: 10.1038/mt.2009.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2008] [Accepted: 12/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Electroporation (EP) has been used in basic research for the past 25 years to aid in the transfer of DNA into cells in vitro. EP in vivo enhances transfer of DNA vaccines and therapeutic plasmids to the skin, muscle, tumors, and other tissues resulting in high levels of expression, often with serological and clinical benefits. The recent interest in nonviral gene transfer as treatment options for a vast array of conditions has resulted in the refinement and optimization of EP technology. Current research has revealed that EP can be successfully used in many species, including humans. Clinical trials are currently under way. Herein, the transition of EP from basic science to clinical trials will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela M Bodles-Brakhop
- VGX Pharmaceuticals, Inc., 2700 Research Forest Drive, Suite 180, The Woodlands, Texas 77381, USA.
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29
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A modified epitope identified for generation and monitoring of PSA-specific T cells in patients on early phases of PSA-based immunotherapeutic protocols. Vaccine 2009; 27:1557-65. [PMID: 19171173 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2009.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2008] [Revised: 12/16/2008] [Accepted: 01/07/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Efficacy of vaccination in cancer patients on immunotherapeutic protocols can be difficult to evaluate. The aim of this study was therefore to identify a single natural or modified epitope in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) with the ability to generate high levels of PSA-specific T cells to facilitate monitoring in patients after vaccination against prostate cancer. To the best of our knowledge, this study describes for the first time the peptide specificity of T cells stimulated by endogenously processed PSA antigen. The peptide specificity of HLA-A*0201-restricted CD8(+) T cells against human and rhesus PSA was investigated both in vivo after DNA vaccination in HLA-A*0201-transgenic mice and in vitro after repetitive stimulation of human T cells with DNA-transfected human dendritic cells (DCs). One of seven native PSA peptides, psa53-61, was able to activate high levels of PSA-specific CD8(+) T cells in HLA-A*0201-transgenic mice after PSA DNA vaccination. Psa53-61 was also the only peptide that induced human T cells to produce IFNgamma after stimulation with PSA transfected DCs, however not in all donors. Therefore, plasmids encoding modified epitopes in predicted HLA-A*0201 sequences were constructed. One of these modified PSA plasmids consistently induced IFNgamma producing CD8(+) T cells to the corresponding modified peptide as well as to the corresponding native peptide, in all murine and human T cell cultures. This study demonstrates a novel concept of introducing a modified epitope within a self-tumor antigen, with the purpose of eliciting a reliable T cell response from the non-tolerized immune repertoire, to facilitate monitoring of vaccine efficacy in cancer patients on immunotherapeutic protocols. The purpose of such a modified epitope is thus not to induce therapeutically relevant T cells but rather to, in case of weak or divergent T cell responses to self antigens/peptides, help answer questions about efficacy of vaccine delivery and about the possibility to induce immune responses in the selected and often immunosuppressed cancer patients.
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Immunotherapy in head and neck cancer: current practice and future possibilities. The Journal of Laryngology & Otology 2008; 123:19-28. [PMID: 18761763 DOI: 10.1017/s0022215108003356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
The survival of patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma has changed little over the last 30 years. However, with recent advances in the fields of cellular and molecular immunology, there is renewed optimism with regards to the development of novel methods of early diagnosis, prognosis estimation and treatment improvement for patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Here, we present a critical review of the recent advances in tumour immunology, and of the current efforts to apply new immunotherapeutic techniques in the treatment of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma.
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Modifying the HIV-1 env gp160 gene to improve pDNA vaccine-elicited cell-mediated immune responses. Vaccine 2008; 26:5083-94. [PMID: 18485543 DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2008.03.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Plasmid DNA (pDNA) vaccines are effective at eliciting immune responses in a wide variety of animal model systems, however, pDNA vaccines have generally been incapable of inducing robust immune responses in clinical trials. Therefore, to identify means to improve pDNA vaccine performance, we compared various post-transcriptional and post-translational genetic modifications for their ability to improve antigen-specific CMI responses. Mice vaccinated using a sub-optimal 100 mcg dose of a pDNA encoding an unmodified primary isolate HIV-1(6101) env gp160 failed to demonstrate measurable env-specific CMI responses. In contrast, significant env-specific CMI responses were seen in mice immunized with pDNA expression vectors encoding env genes modified by RNA optimization or codon optimization. Further modification of the RNA optimized env gp160 gene by the addition of (i) a simian retrovirus type 1 constitutive RNA transport element; (ii) a murine intracisternal A-particle derived RNA transport element; (iii) a tissue plasminogen activator protein signal leader sequences; (iv) a beta-catenin derived ubiquitination target sequence; or (v) a monocyte chemotactic protein-3 derived signal sequence failed to further improve the induction of env-specific CMI responses. Therefore, modification of the env gp160 gene by RNA or codon optimization alone is necessary for high-level rev-independent expression and results in robust env-specific CMI responses in immunized mice. Importantly, further modification(s) of the env gene to alter cellular localization or increase proteolytic processing failed to result in increased env-specific immune responses. These results have important implications for the design and development of an efficacious vaccine for the prevention of HIV-1 infection.
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Abstract
There is a critical need to develop new and effective cancer therapies that target bone, the primary metastatic site for prostate cancer and other malignancies. Among the various therapeutic approaches being considered for this application, gene-modified cell-based therapies may have specific advantages. Gene-modified cell therapy uses gene transfer and cell-based technologies in a complementary fashion to chaperone appropriate gene expression cassettes to active sites of tumor growth. In this paper, we briefly review potential cell vehicles for this approach and discuss relevant gene therapy strategies for prostate cancer. We further discuss selected studies that led to the conceptual development and preclinical testing of IL-12 gene-modified bone marrow cell therapy for prostate cancer. Finally, we discuss future directions in the development of gene-modified cell therapy for metastatic prostate cancer, including the need to identify and test novel therapeutic genes such as GLIPR1.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Wang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Medical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Rice J, Ottensmeier CH, Stevenson FK. DNA vaccines: precision tools for activating effective immunity against cancer. Nat Rev Cancer 2008; 8:108-20. [PMID: 18219306 DOI: 10.1038/nrc2326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 295] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
DNA vaccination has suddenly become a favoured strategy for inducing immunity. The molecular precision offered by gene-based vaccines, together with the facility to include additional genes to direct and amplify immunity, has always been attractive. However, the apparent failure to translate operational success in preclinical models to the clinic, for reasons that are now rather obvious, reduced initial enthusiasm. Recently, novel delivery systems, especially electroporation, have overcome this translational block. Here, we assess the development, current performance and potential of DNA vaccines for the treatment of cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Rice
- Genetic Vaccine Group, Cancer Sciences Division, University of Southampton School of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton,SO16 6YD, UK
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Kanodia S, Da Silva DM, Kast WM. Recent advances in strategies for immunotherapy of human papillomavirus-induced lesions. Int J Cancer 2008; 122:247-59. [PMID: 17973257 PMCID: PMC4943456 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.23252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Human papillomavirus (HPV)-induced lesions are distinct in that they have targetable foreign antigens, the expression of which is necessary to maintain the cancerous phenotype. Hence, they pose as a very attractive target for "proof of concept" studies in the development of therapeutic vaccines. This review will focus on the most recent clinical trials for the immunotherapy of mucosal and cutaneous HPV-induced lesions as well as emerging therapeutic strategies that have been tested in preclinical models for HPV-induced lesions. Progress in peptide-based vaccines, DNA-based vaccines, viral/bacterial vector-based vaccines, immune response modifiers, photodynamic therapy and T cell receptor based therapy for HPV will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shreya Kanodia
- Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology, Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA 90033, USA
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Cancer immunotherapy based on recombinant Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium aroA strains secreting prostate-specific antigen and cholera toxin subunit B. Cancer Gene Ther 2007; 15:85-93. [PMID: 18084243 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7701109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Prostate cancer is the most common malignant tumor in men and is normally associated with increased serum levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Therefore, PSA is one potential target for a prostate cancer vaccine. In this study we analyzed the functionality of new bacterial PSA vaccines, expressed and secreted via the hemolysin (HlyA) secretion system of Escherichia coli, the prototype of Type I secretion systems (T1SS) using an attenuated Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium aroA strain as carrier. The data demonstrate that a bacterial live vaccine encompassing T1SS in combination with cholera toxin subunit B can be successfully used for delivery of PSA to induce cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell responses resulting in an efficient prevention of tumor growth in mice.
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37
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Enhancing cancer vaccines with immunomodulators. Vaccine 2007; 25 Suppl 2:B72-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2007.06.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2007] [Revised: 06/01/2007] [Accepted: 06/15/2007] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
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38
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Wang H, Yang G, Timme TL, Fujita T, Naruishi K, Frolov A, Brenner MK, Kadmon D, Thompson TC. IL-12 gene-modified bone marrow cell therapy suppresses the development of experimental metastatic prostate cancer. Cancer Gene Ther 2007; 14:819-27. [PMID: 17627292 DOI: 10.1038/sj.cgt.7701069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
To investigate the immunomodulatory effects of interleukin-12 (IL-12) for treatment of metastatic prostate cancer, we administered adult bone marrow cells (BMC) that were genetically modified by retroviral vector-mediated IL-12 gene transduction in an experimental mouse model of prostate cancer metastasis. This therapy produced significant anti-metastatic effects in bone and lung and prolonged animal survival. Flow cytometric analysis indicated donor BMC could effectively home to bone and lung after treatment. Intensive infiltration of CD4 and CD8T cells in lung metastases and increased systemic natural killer and cytotoxic T lymphocyte activities indicated induction of a significant anti-metastatic immune response after treatment with IL-12 transduced BMC. Our results demonstrate the therapeutic potential of gene-modified BMC gene therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Wang
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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39
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Lan YH, Li YG, Liang ZW, Chen M, Peng ML, Tang L, Hu HD, Ren H. A DNA vaccine against chimeric AFP enhanced by HSP70 suppresses growth of hepatocellular carcinoma. Cancer Immunol Immunother 2007; 56:1009-16. [PMID: 17186291 PMCID: PMC11029946 DOI: 10.1007/s00262-006-0254-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2006] [Accepted: 10/24/2006] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is produced principally in fetal liver, gastrointestinal tract and the yolk sac which is temporarily present during embryonic development. AFP is overexpressed in the majority of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and thus offers an attractive target for immunotherapy against this neoplasm. Here, we report that anti-HCC effects were achieved in a therapeutic setting with a DNA vaccine encoding mouse AFP and co-expressing heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) gene. We also demonstrated that this vaccine elicited a marked and highly effective AFP specific CTL response against AFP-positive target cells. This vaccine also induced the prolongation of life span in mice bearing the tumor and the eradication of HCC. It is anticipated that vaccine strategies such as this may contribute to the effective future treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-hua Lan
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Clinical College of Harbin Medical University, 150001 Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yong-guo Li
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
- Department of Infectious Disease, The First Clinical College of Harbin Medical University, 150001 Harbin, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zeng-wei Liang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Min Chen
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Ming-li Peng
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Li Tang
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Huai-dong Hu
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong Ren
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Infectious Diseases, Ministry of Education, Institute for Viral Hepatitis, Second Affiliated Hospital, Chongqing Medical University, 400010 Chongqing, People’s Republic of China
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Fox SB, Launchbury R, Bates GJ, Han C, Shaida N, Malone PR, Harris AL, Banham AH. The number of regulatory T cells in prostate cancer is associated with the androgen receptor and hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2alpha but not HIF-1alpha. Prostate 2007; 67:623-9. [PMID: 17328069 DOI: 10.1002/pros.20538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regulatory T cells (T(R)) mediate peripheral immunological tolerance and are implicated in tumor progression. Because prostate cancer is being investigated for treatment by immunotherapy, we have assessed tumor T(R) in prostate cancers. METHODS T(R) cells were identified by FOXP3 in tissue microarrays (TMAs) from 146 radical prostatectomies and correlated with clinicopathological tumor parameters and prostatic specific antigen rise (PSA). RESULTS Twenty of 146 tumors contained no T(R). The mean of the average for the remaining 146 patients was 7.24. There was a significant correlation between T(R) and androgen receptor (P=0.003) and with hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-2alpha (P=0.007) but not HIF-1alpha (P=0.25). There was no significant correlation between T(R) numbers and stage, capsular invasion, urethral margins, vascular invasion, Gleason score, pre-operative PSA, or time to PSA recurrence (all P>0.05). CONCLUSIONS T(R) in prostate tumors shows significant heterogeneity and may be the result of hormonal and hypoxic signaling. Targeting these may reduce T(R) in tumors allowing more successful immune therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen B Fox
- Department of Pathology, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, St Andrews Place, Melbourne, Australia.
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41
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Luckay A, Sidhu MK, Kjeken R, Megati S, Chong SY, Roopchand V, Garcia-Hand D, Abdullah R, Braun R, Montefiori DC, Rosati M, Felber BK, Pavlakis GN, Mathiesen I, Israel ZR, Eldridge JH, Egan MA. Effect of plasmid DNA vaccine design and in vivo electroporation on the resulting vaccine-specific immune responses in rhesus macaques. J Virol 2007; 81:5257-69. [PMID: 17329330 PMCID: PMC1900241 DOI: 10.1128/jvi.00055-07] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2007] [Accepted: 02/20/2007] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-specific cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses are critical in the early control and resolution of HIV infection and correlate with postchallenge outcomes in rhesus macaque challenge experiments, we sought to identify a plasmid DNA (pDNA) vaccine design capable of eliciting robust and balanced CMI responses to multiple HIV type 1 (HIV-1)-derived antigens for further development. Previously, a number of two-, three-, and four-vector pDNA vaccine designs were identified as capable of eliciting HIV-1 antigen-specific CMI responses in mice (M. A. Egan et al., Vaccine 24:4510-4523, 2006). We then sought to further characterize the relative immunogenicities of these two-, three-, and four-vector pDNA vaccine designs in nonhuman primates and to determine the extent to which in vivo electroporation (EP) could improve the resulting immune responses. The results indicated that a two-vector pDNA vaccine design elicited the most robust and balanced CMI response. In addition, vaccination in combination with in vivo EP led to a more rapid onset and enhanced vaccine-specific immune responses. In macaques immunized in combination with in vivo EP, we observed a 10- to 40-fold increase in HIV-specific enzyme-linked immunospot assay responses compared to those for macaques receiving a 5-fold higher dose of vaccine without in vivo EP. This increase in CMI responses translates to an apparent 50- to 200-fold increase in pDNA vaccine potency. Importantly, in vivo EP enhanced the immune response against the less immunogenic antigens, resulting in a more balanced immune response. In addition, in vivo EP resulted in an approximate 2.5-log(10) increase in antibody responses. The results further indicated that in vivo EP was associated with a significant reduction in pDNA persistence and did not result in an increase in pDNA associated with high-molecular-weight DNA relative to macaques receiving the pDNA without EP. Collectively, these results have important implications for the design and development of an efficacious vaccine for the prevention of HIV-1 infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amara Luckay
- Wyeth Vaccines Research, 401 N. Middletown Rd., Bldg. 180/216-10, Pearl River, NY 10965, USA
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42
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Liu MA, Wahren B, Karlsson Hedestam GB. DNA vaccines: recent developments and future possibilities. Hum Gene Ther 2007; 17:1051-61. [PMID: 17032152 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2006.17.1051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of DNA vaccines continues to advance and several new strategies to augment the immunogenicity of DNA vaccines are under evaluation. The majority of these studies are in the early preclinical stage, but some DNA vaccines have moved into clinical trials. In this review, we describe some of the more recent efforts aimed at increasing the immunogenicity of DNA vaccines, including the use of genetic adjuvants and plasmid-based expression of viral replicons. In addition, we discuss the possibility of using DNA vaccines to address emerging infectious agents where they may provide an advantage over other vaccine strategies and we review some areas where DNA vaccines have been used to target self-antigens.
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Abstract
Prostate cancer is a major cause of mortality in men in the Western world. Although treatment of early stage prostate cancer with radiation therapy or prostatectomy is efficient in most cases, some patients develop a fatal hormone-refractory disease. Treatments in this case are limited to aggressive chemotherapies, which can reduce serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels in some patients. Taxane- and platinum-compound-based chemotherapies produce a survival benefit of only a few months. Therefore, it is crucial to develop novel, well tolerated treatment strategies. Over the past years, immunotherapy of hormone-refractory prostate cancer has been studied in numerous clinical trials. The fact that the prostate is a non-essential organ makes prostate cancer an excellent target for immunotherapy. Administration of antibodies targeting the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 or the prostate-specific membrane antigen led to stabilisation of PSA levels in several patients. Vaccination of prostate cancer patients with irradiated allogeneic prostate cell lines has demonstrated that whole cell-based vaccines can significantly attenuate increases in PSA. Two different recombinant viral expression vectors have been applied in prostate cancer treatment: poxvirus and adenovirus vectors. Both vaccines have the advantages of using a natural method to induce immune responses and achieving high levels of transgene expression. Vaccinia viruses in combination with recombinant fowlpox or canarypox virus have been used to express recombinant PSA. Several studies demonstrated that this approach is safe and can lead to stabilisation of PSA values. A very promising approach in prostate cancer immunotherapy is vaccination of patients with dendritic cells. Thereby, peptides, recombinant proteins, tumour lysates or messenger RNA have been used to deliver antigens to autologous dendritic cells. Loading of dendritic cells with up to five different peptides derived from multiple proteins expressed in prostate cancer demonstrated that cytotoxic T-cell responses could be elicited in prostate cancer patients. Sipuleucel-T (APC8015), an immunotherapy product consisting of antigen-presenting cells, loaded ex vivo with a recombinant fusion protein consisting of prostatic acid phosphatase linked to granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor, demonstrated in a phase III, placebo-controlled trial an improvement in median time to disease progression. The improvement in overall survival was 4.5 months for sipuleucel-T-treated patients compared with the placebo group. Although there is a minor increase in overall survival of metastatic prostate cancer patients with some approaches, more effective therapeutic strategies need to be developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael Basler
- Division of Immunology, Department of Biology, University of Constance, Konstanz, Germany.
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44
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Liu MA, Wahren B, Hedestam GBK. DNA Vaccines: Recent Developments and Future Possibilities. Hum Gene Ther 2006. [DOI: 10.1089/hum.2006.17.ft-250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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45
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Abstract
Significant progress made in the field of tumor immunology by the characterization of a large number of tumor antigens, and the better understanding of the mechanisms preventing immune responses to malignancies has led to the extensive study of cancer immunization approaches such as DNA vaccines encoding tumor antigens. This article reviews major aspects of DNA immunization in cancer. It gives a brief history and then discusses the proposed mechanism of action, preclinical and clinical studies, and methods of enhancing the immune responses induced by DNA vaccines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodica Stan
- Department of Medicine, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA
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46
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Abstract
Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men in the USA. Vaccine strategies represent a novel therapeutic approach. One potential target for a prostate cancer vaccine is prostate-specific antigen, owing to its restricted expression in prostate cancer and normal prostatic epithelial cells. A number of prostate-specific antigen-specific epitopes have been identified that can activate cytotoxic T lymphocytes and, in turn, result in the killing of tumor targets by the peptide-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes. Strategies employed in clinical trials consist of dendritic cell vaccines, recombinant protein and recombinant DNA vaccines, as well as viral vector delivery of vaccines. New approaches incorporating a combination of a vaccine with traditional treatments for prostate cancer are also being investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi A Madan
- National Cancer Institute, Medical Oncology Branch, National Institutes of Health, 10 Center Drive, Room 8B09, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
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47
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Fuessel S, Meye A, Schmitz M, Zastrow S, Linné C, Richter K, Löbel B, Hakenberg OW, Hoelig K, Rieber EP, Wirth MP. Vaccination of hormone-refractory prostate cancer patients with peptide cocktail-loaded dendritic cells: results of a phase I clinical trial. Prostate 2006; 66:811-21. [PMID: 16482569 DOI: 10.1002/pros.20404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Immunotherapies might represent promising alternatives for the treatment of patients with hormone-refractory prostate cancer (HRPC). In a Phase I clinical trial, we evaluated a vaccination with dendritic cells (DCs) loaded with a cocktail consisting of HLA-A*0201-restricted peptides derived from five different prostate cancer-associated antigens [prostate-specific antigen (PSA), prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), survivin, prostein, transient receptor potential p8 (trp-p8)]. METHODS Eight HRPC patients received a total of four vaccinations every other week. Clinical and immunological responses were monitored by the determination of the serum PSA levels and by enzyme linked immunospot (ELISPOT) analyses, respectively. RESULTS Apart from local skin reactions no side effects were noted. One patient displayed a partial response (PR; PSA decrease >50%) and three other patients showed stable PSA values or decelerated PSA increases. In ELISPOT analyses, three of four PSA responders also showed antigen-specific CD8+ T-cell activation against prostein, survivin, and PSMA. CONCLUSIONS The described protocol represents a safe and feasible concept for the induction of clinical and immunological responses. The application of a peptide cocktail-derived from different antigens as a novel treatment modality is supposed to allow for the genetic and biologic heterogeneity of PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Fuessel
- Department of Urology, Medical Faculty, Technical University Dresden, Dresden, Germany
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Drugs that target extracellular molecules and intracellular pathways remain an area of active research in prostate cancer. Although preclinical data suggest that new drugs can modulate or slow prostate tumor proliferation, responses in man, such as disease stabilization or regression, are not as dramatic as those seen in preclinical models. Other approaches, including carbohydrate and cellular product vaccines, cytokines, and monoclonal antibodies either alone or with radiopharmaceuticals, are being used to seek and destroy cancer cells. Although robust in-vitro antibody responses can be generated against a specific immunogen in many vaccines, immunologists would agree that immune responses are suboptimal, as defined by a lack of impact on tumor growth, and insufficient to impact on disease progression. RECENT FINDINGS Although a preferred result, approaches that maximize the cellular arm of immune responses are limited by technology to detect these responses and by agents that can enhance their activity. DNA vaccines that target prostate-specific antigen and prostate-specific membrane antigen, and drugs that can block inhibitory molecules on T cells, such as cytotoxic T lymphocyte antigen-4, are currently under study. SUMMARY This article will review state-of-the-art mechanisms by which immunity may be enhanced to elicit antitumor responses against selectively expressed cell surface molecules and to maximize antitumor responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan F Slovin
- Genitourinary Oncology Service, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY 10021, USA.
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49
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Arlen PM, Gulley JL, Parker C, Skarupa L, Pazdur M, Panicali D, Beetham P, Tsang KY, Grosenbach DW, Feldman J, Steinberg SM, Jones E, Chen C, Marte J, Schlom J, Dahut W. A randomized phase II study of concurrent docetaxel plus vaccine versus vaccine alone in metastatic androgen-independent prostate cancer. Clin Cancer Res 2006; 12:1260-9. [PMID: 16489082 PMCID: PMC1526707 DOI: 10.1158/1078-0432.ccr-05-2059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Docetaxel has activity against androgen-independent prostate cancer and preclinical studies have shown that taxane-based chemotherapy can enhance antitumor response of vaccines. The primary objective of this study was to determine if concurrent docetaxel (with dexamethasone) had any effect on generating an immune response to the vaccine. Secondary end points were whether vaccine could be given safely with docetaxel and the clinical outcome of the treatment regimen. EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN The vaccination regimen was composed of (a) recombinant vaccinia virus (rV) that expresses the prostate-specific antigen gene (rV-PSA) admixed with (b) rV that expresses the B7.1 costimulatory gene (rV-B7.1), and (c) sequential booster vaccinations with recombinant fowlpox virus (rF-) containing the PSA gene (rF-PSA). Patients received granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor with each vaccination. Twenty-eight patients with metastatic androgen-independent prostate cancer were randomized to receive either vaccine and weekly docetaxel or vaccine alone. Patients on the vaccine alone arm were allowed to cross over to receive docetaxel alone at time of disease progression. The ELISPOT assay was used to monitor immune responses for PSA-specific T cells. RESULTS The median increase in these T-cell precursors to PSA was 3.33-fold in both arms following 3 months of therapy. In addition, immune responses to other prostate cancer-associated tumor antigens were also detected postvaccination. Eleven patients who progressed on vaccine alone crossed over to receive docetaxel at time of progression. Median progression-free survival on docetaxel was 6.1 months after receiving vaccine compared with 3.7 months with the same regimen in a historical control. CONCLUSION This is the first clinical trial to show that docetaxel can be administered safely with immunotherapy without inhibiting vaccine specific T-cell responses. Furthermore, patients previously vaccinated with an anticancer vaccine may respond longer to docetaxel compared with a historical control of patients receiving docetaxel alone. Larger prospective clinical studies will be required to validate these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Seth M. Steinberg
- Biostatistics and Data Management Section, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute
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50
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Whelan M, Ball G, Beattie C, Dalgleish A. Biomarkers for development of cancer vaccines. Per Med 2006; 3:79-88. [PMID: 29783432 DOI: 10.2217/17410541.3.1.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The search for molecules that correlate with cancer progression is an evolving and exciting area of research. Such biomarkers have utility in a number of areas, most notably in a variety of clinical development programs. Modern technologies are revealing multiple potential biomarker candidates. However, the challenge remains in validating the correlation in levels of a particular molecule with clinical parameters. In this article, the area of biomarkers and cancer vaccines is briefly reviewed and the possibility of combining multiple molecules to generate a profile that correlates with outcome, rather than using more conventional single molecule biomarker systems, is explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Whelan
- St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK. .,Nottingham Trent University, School of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Clifton Campus, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Department of Oncology, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - Graham Ball
- St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK. .,Nottingham Trent University, School of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Clifton Campus, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Department of Oncology, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - Chris Beattie
- St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK. .,Nottingham Trent University, School of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Clifton Campus, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Department of Oncology, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
| | - Angus Dalgleish
- St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK. .,Nottingham Trent University, School of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Clifton Campus, Clifton Lane, Nottingham, NG11 8NS, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Onyvax Ltd, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.,St George's Hospital Medical School, Department of Oncology, Cranmer Terrace, London, SW17 0RE, UK.
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