Lovaxin C

Lovaxin C is a live attenuated "Listeria" cancer vaccine that is under investigation (2008) and has entered clinical trials. It is under development at Advaxis.

Background

The bacterial genus "Listeria" includes intracellular pathogenes able to induce a strong activation of the immune system. The vaccine is derived from bioengineered "Listeria monocytogenes" that have been attenuated and produce a tumor antigen. Lovaxin C specifically contains HPV-16-E7 antigen specific for cervical carcinoma. Women with cervical cancer are thought to be able to mount a more effective immune reponse against this cancer after stimulation with the vaccine.cite journal|title=Live Listeria Vaccine Proves Safe Against End-Stage Cervical Ca in Human Trial|author=Fran Lowry|journal=Ob.Gyn. News Vol.43, No.10, page 2|date=05-15-2008|]

The concept has been tested in a mouse model where the vaccine led to regression of renal and colon cancer. [cite journal|journal=Nature Medicine 1, 471 - 477 (1995)|title=A recombinant Listeria monocytogenes vaccine expressing a model tumour antigen protects mice against lethal tumour cell challenge and causes regression of established tumours|author=Zhen-Kun Pan, Georgios Ikonomidis, Audrey Lazenby, Drew Pardoll, Yvonne Paterson]

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.

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

References

External links

* [http://www.advaxis.com/company.htm Advaxis company website]