algenpantucel-L

Algenpantucel-L is an allogeneic, cell-based immunotherapy vaccine developed by NewLink Genetics (now Lumos Pharma) for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The product consists of two irradiated human pancreatic cancer cell lines (HAP T1 and HAP T2) that have been genetically engineered to express the enzyme alpha(1,3)galactosyltransferase. This enzyme catalyzes the addition of alpha-galactosyl (alpha-gal) epitopes to surface proteins and lipids on the vaccine cells. Because humans naturally possess high titers of antibodies against alpha-gal (due to its presence on gut bacteria but absence on human cells), the vaccine triggers a "hyperacute rejection" response upon administration. This immune activation is intended to educate the patient's immune system to recognize and attack their own pancreatic cancer cells, which share similar antigens with the vaccine cells. Despite promising Phase 2 results, algenpantucel-L failed to meet its primary endpoints in two large Phase 3 trials (IMPRESS and PILLAR), leading to the discontinuation of its development for pancreatic cancer.

Brand names

HyperAcute-Pancreas

Other names

algenpantucel-LHyperAcute Pancreas