NYU Begins Testing Brain Cancer Vaccine
Scientists from the New York University Medical Center are starting clinical trials to determine the effectiveness of a vaccine designed to combat glioblastoma multiforme, a deadly form of brain cancer.
The DCVax-Brain vaccine, manufactured by Northwest Biotherapeutics, Inc (OTC: NWBO), uses extracts from the patient’s own tumor cells to generate an immune response in the body. To make this possible, tumor and blood samples removed from the patient during surgery are shipped to the manufacturer. Once the samples are received, a year’s supply of the vaccine is created and shipped frozen back to the treatment facility to be administered.
Dr Patrick Kelly and Dr Michael Gruber will lead the NYU research team. Patients enrolled in the study will be randomized into two groups, one receiving the standard therapy (surgery followed by chemoradiotherapy) while the other receives standard therapy plus the vaccine.
Researchers admit they are excited about the vaccine’s potential. As one explained,
“Everything now depends on something in addition to surgery so that these tumors do not recur. A cancer vaccine like this may make a difference in extending life and maintaining a good quality of life.”
Patrick J Kelly, MD
Chairman, Department of Neurosurgery
NYU Medical Center
Source: United Press International
Related Links: ScienceDaily; BioPortfolio.com; Pharmaceutical BUSINESS Review; National Brain Tumor Foundation; American Association of Neurological Surgeons
Related Podcast: An Update on Brain Tumors from Yale Cancer Center Answers
Tags: astrocytoma; Bothell; Washington; immunotherapy; neuro-oncology; Bethesda; Maryland
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