Epigenetically-modified autologous tumor cell vaccine + celecoxib

This investigational therapeutic regimen, developed by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), consists of an autologous tumor cell vaccine combined with the ISCOMATRIX adjuvant and oral celecoxib. The vaccine is produced by treating a patient's own tumor cells in vitro with the DNA demethylating agent decitabine (5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine) to induce or upregulate the expression of cancer-testis (CT) antigens, which are typically silenced in normal adult tissues but can be recognized by the immune system. The modified cells are then irradiated and lysed to create a vaccine that is administered alongside ISCOMATRIX, a saponin-based adjuvant designed to enhance the immune response. Oral celecoxib, a COX-2 inhibitor, is co-administered to modulate the tumor microenvironment and reduce immunosuppression. This Phase 1 strategy is being evaluated for the treatment of various resectable thoracic malignancies, including lung and esophageal cancers, thymic neoplasms, and malignant pleural mesothelioma.

Other names

Epigenetically-modified autologous tumor cell vaccineEpigenetically-modified autologous tumor cell vaccine with ISCOMATRIX adjuvant and oral celecoxibAutologous tumor cell vaccine-NCI