Researchers find experimental cancer vaccine shows promise in animals

Investigators from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health have reported an experimental therapeutic cancer vaccine induced two distinct and desirable immune system responses that led to significant tumor regression in mice. The researchers found that intravenous (IV) administration of the vaccine boosted the number of cytotoxic T cells capable of infiltrating and attacking tumor cells and engaged the innate immune system by inducing type I interferon. The innate immune response modified the tumor microenvironment, counteracting suppressive forces that otherwise would tamp down T-cell action. Modification of the tumor microenvironment was not seen in mice that received the vaccine via needle injection into the skin (subcutaneous administration).