Development of cancer vaccine by tumor rejection antigens

Identification of the MAGE genes allowed us the molecular approach to identify genes encoding tumor rejection antigens expressed on human cancer cells. MAGE-1 proteins are normal tissue antigens compartmentalized in the particular testicular cells playing an important role in the early phase of the spermatogenesis. The MAGE-1, -2, -3, -4 and -6 genes are preferentially expressed in many different cancers at both the mRNA and protein levels. The MAGE genes, particularly MAGE-1, became positive in relatively advanced stages of cancers and recurrent cancers. Approximately one-third to half of human cancers except for myelo-monocytic leukemia expressed at least one of these MAGE genes. The MAGE gene products shall be appropriate target molecules for development of new cancer vaccine.