alpha fetoprotein plasmid DNA vaccine

The alpha fetoprotein plasmid DNA vaccine is a therapeutic cancer vaccine consisting of a plasmid encoding the human or mouse alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) gene. The encoded AFP acts as a tumor-associated antigen (TAA), aiming to induce an immune response—primarily cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) activation—against AFP-expressing tumor cells, such as those found in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The mechanism involves intramuscular administration of the plasmid, leading to in vivo expression of AFP and subsequent presentation by antigen-presenting cells, thereby stimulating anti-tumor immunity. Clinical trials have explored its use alone and in combination with other immunostimulatory agents or viral vector boosts to enhance efficacy[1][2][4]. As of now, it remains investigational and has not received regulatory approval for any indication.

Other names

AFP DNA vaccinealpha-fetoprotein DNA vaccine