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This innovative vaccine targets glioblastoma, a particularly deadly type of brain tumor. The human clinical trial has already included four adults, demonstrating a rapid activation of the immune system. The results were published on May 1 in the journal Cell.
Illustrative image Pixabay
The initial human results are similar to those obtained in 10 dogs suffering from brain tumors, as well as in preclinical models on mice. The next step will be a phase 1 clinical trial in children with brain cancer.
The vaccine employs lipid nanoparticles, similar to those in COVID-19 vaccines, but incorporates two major innovations: the use of the patient's tumor cells for a personalized vaccine, and a newly developed complex delivery mechanism.
The vaccine technique involves the injection of clusters of particles that behave like "onions," allowing a more effective alert of the immune system. According to Dr. Elias Sayour, lead researcher, this method provoked a robust immune response in less than 48 hours, marking a significant shift in immune activity from "cold" to "active."
This vaccine represents a promising new method for treating cancers resistant to standard treatments, which currently include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Glioblastoma, in particular, has a severe prognosis with a median survival of about 15 months.
The research began with preclinical models in mice and was extended to a clinical trial in dogs with natural brain tumors before moving on to human trials. The promising results from seven years of research could pave the way for larger future clinical trials.