Immunologic therapy targeting metastatic melanoma: allovectin-7.

Abstract

In the USA, the incidence of cutaneous melanoma is increasing rapidly. It has been shown to be responsive to immune-stimulating drugs. Allovectin-7 allows the immune system to recognize metastatic melanoma lesions as foreign by incorporating a MHC class I complex into the tumor through direct injection. Once transfected, tumor biopsies have shown an increased presence of cytotoxic T lymphocytes in the tumor beds themselves. Phase I and II trials have shown local and systemic response to these tumors, with an excellent safety profile. Currently, a Phase III trial has completed enrollment and is set to determine the safety and efficacy of treatment in comparison with standard chemotherapy.

• Authors: Rozina Chowdhery, Rene Gonzalez
• Journal: Immunotherapy (Immunotherapy) Vol. 3 Issue 1 Pg. 17-21 (Jan 2011) ISSN: 1750-7448 [Electronic] England
• PMID: 21174553 (Publication Type: Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Allovectin-7
• DNA, Recombinant
• HLA-B7 Antigen
• Lipids
• Liposomes

Topics

• Clinical Trials as Topic
• DNA, Recombinant (administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Genetic Therapy (methods)
• HLA-B7 Antigen (genetics, immunology)
• Humans
• Immunotherapy (methods)
• Lipids (administration & dosage, adverse effects, therapeutic use)
• Liposomes
• Melanoma (immunology, therapy)
• Neoplasm Metastasis (immunology, therapy)
• Plasmids
• Skin Neoplasms (therapy)
• T-Lymphocytes, Cytotoxic (immunology)
• Treatment Outcome