For many living with advanced melanoma, treatment options are limited — but that could soon change. Researchers are testing a groundbreaking cancer vaccine that may help the immune system fight back when other therapies fall short.
A vaccine that fights cancer, not infections
Unlike traditional vaccines, this one is not designed to prevent disease but to treat it. It works by stimulating the immune system to specifically target melanoma cells that have spread beyond the skin.
Targeted for advanced melanoma patients
This treatment focuses on patients whose melanoma has spread to other organs, a stage where survival rates drop dramatically and standard treatments often fail.
Boosts the effect of immunotherapy
The vaccine is used alongside existing immunotherapy drugs to enhance their effect. Together, they aim to give the immune system a better chance of keeping the cancer at bay.
Developed through Danish-American collaboration
The vaccine is currently being tested in an international clinical trial led by Danish biotech company IO Biotech and pharmaceutical company Merck, with patients participating in both Denmark and the US.
Early results show double the success rate
In previous trials, researchers observed that twice as many patients responded positively when they received the vaccine alongside immunotherapy compared to immunotherapy alone.
May reduce severe side effects
While immunotherapy can cause serious immune reactions, the vaccine appears to trigger fewer unwanted effects, possibly making it safer for patients with compromised health.
A more precise attack on cancer cells
The vaccine uses a unique approach by directing the immune system specifically against cancer-related proteins, reducing the risk of harming healthy cells.
A chance for patients who don’t respond to standard therapy
Around half of all patients with advanced melanoma do not benefit from current immunotherapy treatments. The vaccine may offer a solution for these individuals.
Could be available soon
If the ongoing phase 3 trials continue to show positive results, the vaccine may be approved for public use within the next year, providing new hope for patients worldwide.
Part of a new era in cancer vaccines
This vaccine is part of a larger trend in cancer research focusing on therapeutic vaccines. While not a cure, it marks a major step forward in giving patients better, safer options.
The article is based on information from Videnskab.dk