Encouraging results from a recent study have shown increased survival rates for patients with recurrent glioblastoma (GBM) through a new form of immunotherapy-based cancer treatment.
The clinical trial tested an experimental cancer vaccine, called VBI-1901, which is a form of immunotherapy.
The research was conducted in the United States (US) and led by Professor Patrick Wen (Professor of Neurology – Harvard Medical School and Director – Center For Neuro-Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center), who is also a member of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation’s Scientific Advisory Committee.
Immunotherapy involves harnessing our body’s immune system to target cancer cells. The VBI-1901 vaccine works by targeting the cytomegalovirus, which is expressed on over 90% of GBM cells.
Patients were administered the treatment every 4 weeks and monitored after each dose with MRI scans.
The study’s results demonstrated an increase in overall survival, with 80% of patients surviving 6-months, and 60% of patients surviving 12-months post-diagnosis. Generally, only 60% of patients with recurrent GBM survive for 6-months, and only 30% survive 12-months.
This research is the result of a collaboration between two US-based world-class institutions, Harvard University and Columbia University. Study lead, Prof. Patrick Wen, Professor of Neurology at Harvard Medical School, is a member of Cure Brain Cancer Foundation’s world-class Scientific Advisory Committee, who ensure that the Foundation funds the highest quality research to deliver the greatest impact for people with brain cancer.
Cure Brain Cancer Foundation’s Director, Research and Investments, Stephanie Quattromani said, “We are encouraged by these outcomes and look forward to the results of a further clinical trial that will test this new experimental therapy, expected to open later this year.”
For further information on immunotherapy and how to access a clinical trial, please consult your healthcare professional.
Access the full research study here.
