The B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) family of
proteins play a crucial role in
multiple myeloma (MM), contributing to lacking apoptosis which is a hallmark of the disease. This makes the Bcl-2
proteins interesting targets for therapeutic
peptide vaccination. We report a phase I trial of therapeutic vaccination with
peptides from the
proteins Bcl-2, Bcl-XL and Mcl-1 in patients with relapsed MM.
Vaccines were given concomitant with
bortezomib. Out of 7 enrolled patients, 4 received the full course of 8 vaccinations. The remaining 3 patients received fewer vaccinations due to
progression, clinical decision of lacking effect and development of
hypercalcemia, respectively. There were no signs of toxicity other than what was to be expected from
bortezomib. Immune responses to the
peptides were seen in all 6 patients receiving more than 2 vaccinations. Three patients had increased immune responses after vaccination. Vaccination against Bcl-2 was well tolerated and was able to induce immune responses in patients with relapsed MM.