Therapeutic area |
Cancer |
Goal |
To demonstrate the usefulness of a therapeutic vaccine preparation based on recombinant antigens and adjuvant, for cancer control via the blockade of tumor angiogenesis |
Description |
The CIGB has developed an anti-cancer therapeutic vaccine candidate composed by a proprietary recombinant fusion protein that contains domains of the human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and potent adjuvants. We have shown that this vaccine candidate prevents tumor growth, increases survival of animals bearing tumors, and controls metastases in an animal model system. Animals develop anti VEGF antibodies that are capable of neutralizing the molecule and induce anti-angiogenic effects in tumors. There is also contribution of an immune cell mediated response in the overall anti-tumor effect. We have at least three different adjuvant formulations that produce similar anti-tumor effects in the animal system. Some information about our work can be found in: M. Bequet, M. Ayala, B.E. Acevedo, E. Galban, O. López, I. Torrens, J.V. Gavilondo. (2007) Prophylactic naked DNA vaccination with the human vascular endothelial growth factor induces an anti-tumor response in C57Bl/6 mice. Angiogenesis (in press).
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Patent Status |
A patent has been internationally applied for our vaccine candidate. |
Project Status |
Research and proof of concept.
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Type of collaboration requested |
The aim of the collaboration is a corporate partnership to conduct further characterization studies on the anti-tumor potential of the vaccine formulation. These studies could imply both animal tests and clinical trials. The collaboration would include the production of the vaccine antigen and formulation at the CIGB, the development of GMP production processes at the CIGB, the joint design of in vitro and animal experiments to be conducted in the territory, the joint design of the clinical trials to be conducted in the territory and in Cuba, and the joint evaluation of produced data.
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Competitives advantages Milestones |
Experience in genetic engineering and experimental oncology, highly skilled staff, versatility of the technology.
Milestones to be developed jointly with the partner.
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Host Insitutions |
Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (CIGB). Ave 31, e/158 y 190 Cubanacán, Playa. PO Box 6996, La Habana, 10600, Cuba. Tel. (53-7) 2712397; 2716022. Fax. (53-7) 2736008; 2718070.
Email : ernesto.lopez@cigb.edu.cu . Web site : http://gndp.cigb.edu.cu |
Project code:
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BIO/CIGB/2007-10
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