PROSTVAC

PROSTVAC is an immunotherapy treatment developed for the management of prostate cancer. It is a therapeutic vaccine that aims to stimulate the body's immune system to attack prostate cancer cells.

History[edit | edit source]

PROSTVAC was developed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and later licensed to Bavarian Nordic, a biotechnology company specializing in cancer immunotherapies. The vaccine is based on a platform technology that uses a virus vector to deliver cancer-specific antigens to the immune system.

Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]

PROSTVAC works by stimulating the body's immune system to recognize and attack prostate cancer cells. The vaccine contains a modified virus that carries a gene for Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA), a protein produced by prostate cancer cells. When the vaccine is injected into the body, it prompts the immune system to produce T cells that recognize and kill cells producing PSA.

Clinical Trials[edit | edit source]

PROSTVAC has undergone several clinical trials to evaluate its safety and efficacy. In Phase II trials, the vaccine showed promise in extending the survival of men with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. However, in a Phase III trial, the vaccine did not meet its primary endpoint of improving overall survival.

Future Development[edit | edit source]

Despite the setback in Phase III trials, research into PROSTVAC continues. Scientists are exploring combinations of PROSTVAC with other treatments, such as checkpoint inhibitors, to enhance its effectiveness.