New Delhi: Personalised cancer vaccines represent a cutting-edge approach in oncology, tailored specifically to an individual’s unique tumor profile. These vaccines harness the power of the immune system to recognise and combat cancer cells more effectively. Unlike traditional vaccines, which are designed to prevent diseases, cancer vaccines aim to treat existing cancers by stimulating the body’s immune response against tumour-specific antigens.
In an interaction with NewsLive, Dr. Anil Thakwani , Consultant and Senior Oncologist, Sharda Hospital, explained the many benefits of this form of vaccine for cancer patients.
“The process of creating a personalised cancer vaccine begins with sequencing the patient’s tumor to identify unique mutations, known as neoantigens, which are not present in normal cells. These neoantigens serve as the targets for the immune system. Scientists then design synthetic peptides or use mRNA technology to encode these neoantigens, formulating the vaccine. Once administered, the vaccine trains the patient’s immune cells, particularly T-cells, to recognize and attack the cancer cells harboring these specific mutations,” said Dr Thakwani.
Clinical trials have demonstrated promising results for personalised cancer vaccines, particularly in melanoma, a type of skin cancer known for its high mutation rate. In these trials, patients receiving personalised vaccines showed improved immune responses and, in some cases, a reduction in tumour size. For instance, a study published in “Nature” reported that melanoma patients treated with a personalised mRNA vaccine had prolonged survival compared to those who did not receive the vaccine.
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. The time and cost associated with developing a personalised vaccine for each patient are significant. Additionally, not all cancers exhibit a high number of mutations, potentially limiting the effectiveness of this approach in certain cases. Researchers are also exploring combination therapies, integrating personalised vaccines with other treatments such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, to enhance efficacy.
In conclusion, personalised cancer vaccines represent a promising frontier in cancer treatment, offering hope for more effective and targeted therapies. As research progresses, these vaccines could become a critical component of personalized oncology, revolutionizing how we approach cancer care and significantly improving patient outcomes.
Clinical trials have demonstrated promising results for personalised cancer vaccines, particularly in melanoma, a type of skin cancer known for its high mutation rate. In these trials, patients receiving personalised vaccines showed improved immune responses and, in some cases, a reduction in tumour size. Health News Health News: Latest News from Health Care, Mental Health, Weight Loss, Disease, Nutrition, Healthcare
