DNA fusion vaccines against B-cell tumors

Trends Mol Med. 2001 Dec;7(12):566-72. doi: 10.1016/s1471-4914(01)02126-8.

Abstract

DNA vaccination is currently being explored as a potential strategy for combatting cancer. However, tumor antigens are often weak and the immune system of patients may be compromised. For B-cell tumors, immunoglobulin idiotypic antigens provide defined targets but are poorly immunogenic. Fusion of a sequence derived from tetanus toxin to the genes encoding idiotypic determinants has proved highly effective in activating protective anti-tumor immunity. DNA fusion vaccines containing immuno-enhancing sequences can augment and direct immune attack on a range of target antigens. Gene-based fusion vaccines offer ease of manipulation and flexible design to activate effective attack on cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, Neoplasm / immunology
  • Cancer Vaccines / genetics*
  • Cancer Vaccines / immunology*
  • Cancer Vaccines / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin Idiotypes / immunology
  • Immunotherapy / methods
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / genetics*
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / immunology*
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / therapy
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / genetics
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins / immunology*
  • Tetanus Toxin / genetics
  • Tetanus Toxin / metabolism
  • Vaccines, DNA / genetics*
  • Vaccines, DNA / immunology
  • Vaccines, DNA / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Antigens, Neoplasm
  • Cancer Vaccines
  • Immunoglobulin Idiotypes
  • Recombinant Fusion Proteins
  • Tetanus Toxin
  • Vaccines, DNA