Phase 2 Clinical Trial for Breast Cancer Vaccine (STEMVAC) Announced by University of Washington

Strategic Insights -

A promising new approach to combating metastatic triple-negative breast cancer is being explored through a Phase 2 clinical trial currently listed on ClinicalTrials.gov. The trial, led by principal investigator Mary Disis, MD, of the University of Washington, aims to assess the efficacy of a DNA plasmid-based vaccine called STEMVAC in combination with chemotherapy for patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer. This innovative treatment targets proteins expressed on breast cancer stem cells, boosting the immune system's ability to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

Key Takeaways:

  • The trial focuses on patients with PD-L1 negative, triple-negative breast cancer that has spread from its primary site to other parts of the body (metastatic).
  • STEMVAC is designed to target proteins associated with breast cancer stem cells, including MDM2, YB1, SOX2, CDH3, and CD105.
  • The trial will investigate the efficacy of STEMVAC in combination with seven different chemotherapy drugs, including paclitaxel, docetaxel, cisplatin, carboplatin, doxorubicin, liposomal doxorubicin, and eribulin.
  • The trial's principal investigator, Mary Disis, MD, will lead the study with a team from the University of Washington, in collaboration with the Kuni Foundation.
  • The trial will enroll a total of 20 participants from the USA, with the study currently not open for recruiting.

Statistics:

  • The trial will be conducted among patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, a type of cancer accounting for approximately 10-15% of all breast cancer cases.
  • STEMVAC is designed to target proteins expressed on breast cancer stem cells, believed to play a crucial role in cancer development and progression.
  • The trial will explore the dosing regimen of STEMVAC, with participants scheduled to receive a regimen of 3 vaccinations, followed by a chemotherapy treatment protocol.

Sources:

  • ClinicalTrials.gov
  • University of Washington
  • Kuni Foundation