The Shot Heard 'Round the World

Baylor makes strides toward widespread distribution of cancer vaccine.

Researchers at Baylor Institute for Immunology Research, a component of Baylor Research Institute, have a dream: to transform cancer from a deadly disease into a manageable condition-perhaps even a curable one for some people.

The dream began with an experimental cancer vaccine that researchers originally developed as a potential treatment for skin cancer. Created using a patient's own disease-fighting cells, the vaccine fortifies the cells in an effort to stimulate the immune system.

"What we're doing may enhance and boost the body's own protective mechanism to attack the cancer," says Michael A.E. Ramsay, M.D., president of the Baylor Research Institute. "And it's all done with a simple injection that can be administered in any doctor's office."

In clinical trials, the vaccine significantly increased survival rates in people with metastatic melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Some patients went into complete or partial remission, and the vaccine has caused no adverse side effects. Other treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, can damage healthy cells in their attack on tumor cells.

"In our latest Phase II clinical trial, we've already had one patient who showed a significant regression in their tumor, which is the evidence we needed to move forward with this study and enroll additional participants," Dr. Ramsay explains.

Researchers also have made excellent progress in the development of a vaccine for the treatment of prostate cancer and they hope to begin a related trial later this year. Researchers intend to begin trials testing vaccines for breast cancer in 2008 and lung cancer in 2009.

By Amy Lynn Smith

For more information about participating in the melanoma research trial, search our on-line clinical studies or call 1-800-4BAYLOR. Physician referral is required."