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Perspective on allogeneic melanoma lysates in active specific immunotherapy
1Center for Biological Therapy and Melanoma Research, University of California San Diego Cancer Center, La Jolla 92093-0061, USA.
Seminars in Oncology
|December 29, 1998
Summary
Allogeneic melanoma cell lysates show promise as active immunotherapy, demonstrating objective responses and long-term survival in melanoma patients. Combination therapy with Interferon-alfa 2b warrants further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Melanoma Research
Background:
- Allogeneic melanoma cell lysates were investigated for active immunotherapy.
- Initial trials focused on safety and immunologic effectiveness in stage IV melanoma patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of allogeneic melanoma cell lysates as an active immunotherapy.
- To assess the potential of Melacine and its combination with Interferon-alfa 2b in melanoma treatment.
Main Methods:
- Phase I, II, and III clinical trials were conducted using frozen and lyophilized melanoma cell lysates (Melacine).
- Comparative studies included Melacine plus cyclophosphamide versus multi-drug chemotherapy.
- Investigated Interferon-alfa 2b (IFN-alpha) in patients unresponsive to Melacine.
Main Results:
- Frozen lysates showed a 20% objective response rate and 8% long-term survivors.
- Melacine demonstrated objective responses in ~10% and disease stabilization in 10-20% of patients.
- A Phase III trial indicated Melacine had fewer side effects than chemotherapy without compromising survival.
Conclusions:
- Allogeneic melanoma cell lysates, including Melacine, represent a viable immunotherapy option with manageable side effects.
- Combination therapy with Melacine and IFN-alpha is under investigation for advanced melanoma.
- Identification of a new melanoma antigen (MG50) and distinct tumor evolution in a survivor provide scientific insights.