Lovaxin C

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Lovaxin C is a live Listeria cancer vaccine that is under investigation (2008) and has entered clinical trials. It is produced by Advaxis.

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[edit] Background

Listeria bacteria produce a strong activation of the immune system. The vaccine is derived from bioengineered Listeria monocytogenes that have been attenuated and produce a tumor antigen. In current investigations the antigen in focus is HPV-16-E7 that is specific for cervical carcinoma. With the stimulation by Lovaxin C women with cervical cancer are thought to be able to mount a more effective immune reponse against this cancer[1]

The concept has been tested in a mouse model where Listeria vaccine led to regression of renal and colon cancer.[2]

[edit] Phase I/II studies

In phase I/II trials 15 women with end-stage (IVb) cervical cancer were treated. Flu-like symptoms including fever and hypotension were encountered. While this study was conducted to establish dose tolerance, six of the 15 treated patients were still alive 2 years later, although their expected life expectancy at the begin of the trial was six months or less.[1]

Studies are planned to test the efficacy of Lovaxin C in patients with advanced cervical cancer.

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b Fran Lowry (05-15-2008). "Live Listeria Vaccine Proves Safe Against End-Stage Cervical Ca in Human Trial". Ob.Gyn. News Vol.43, No.10, page 2. 
  2. ^ Zhen-Kun Pan, Georgios Ikonomidis, Audrey Lazenby, Drew Pardoll, Yvonne Paterson. "A recombinant Listeria monocytogenes vaccine expressing a model tumour antigen protects mice against lethal tumour cell challenge and causes regression of established tumours". Nature Medicine 1, 471 - 477 (1995). 

[edit] External links