Peptide-based vaccines for cancer therapy
Giorgio Parmiani1, Vincenzo Russo, Cristina Maccalli
1a San Raffaele Scientific Institute ; Milano , Italy.
Abstract:
Interest for cancer vaccination started more than 30 years ago after the demonstration that both in animal models and later on in patients it is possible to generate anti-tumor immune responses. The clinical application of this knowledge, however, was disappointing. In this review we summarize results on peptides epitopes recognized by T cells that have been studied thanks to their easy synthesis and the lack of significant side effects when administered in-vivo. To improve the clinical efficacy, peptides were modified in their aminoacid sequence to augment their immunogenicity. Peptides vaccines were recently shown to induce a high frequency of immune response in patients that were accompanied by clinical efficacy. These data are discussed at the light of recent progression of immunotherapy caused by the addition of check-point antibodies thus providing a general picture of the potential therapeutic efficacy of the peptide-based vaccines and their combination with other biological agents.
Insights
Cancer vaccines using modified peptide epitopes show promise for inducing anti-tumor immune responses and clinical efficacy in patients. These advancements, combined with immunotherapy, highlight the potential of peptide-based cancer vaccines.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Oncology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Cancer vaccination research began over 30 years ago, aiming to generate anti-tumor immune responses.
- Early clinical applications of cancer vaccines yielded disappointing results despite demonstrated immune responses in animal models and patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the progress of peptide epitopes in cancer vaccination.
- To discuss the enhancement of peptide immunogenicity and clinical efficacy.
- To explore the combination of peptide vaccines with modern immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Summarizing results on T cell-recognized peptide epitopes.
- Analyzing modifications in amino acid sequences to augment immunogenicity.
- Reviewing clinical data on peptide vaccine efficacy and immune responses.
Main Results:
- Modified peptide vaccines have demonstrated the ability to induce high-frequency immune responses in patients.
- These immune responses have been associated with notable clinical efficacy.
- Recent advancements in immunotherapy, particularly checkpoint inhibitors, enhance the potential of peptide vaccines.
Conclusions:
- Peptide-based cancer vaccines show significant therapeutic potential, especially when modified for increased immunogenicity.
- The combination of peptide vaccines with checkpoint inhibitors represents a promising strategy in cancer immunotherapy.
- Further research into peptide vaccines and their integration with other biological agents is warranted for improved cancer treatment.
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