gm2-klh

GM2-KLH is an investigational cancer vaccine composed of the ganglioside antigen GM2, which is overexpressed in most melanomas and some other tumors, covalently conjugated to keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH), a highly immunogenic carrier protein. The purpose of this conjugation is to enhance the immune response against the otherwise weakly immunogenic carbohydrate antigen GM2. The vaccine is often administered with an adjuvant such as QS-21 to further boost immunogenicity. Mechanistically, vaccination with GM2-KLH aims to induce both IgM and IgG antibody responses against tumor cells expressing the GM2 antigen by providing T-cell help via KLH. Clinical trials have primarily focused on melanoma and breast cancer; however, large phase III studies have shown no improvement in relapse-free or overall survival for stage II melanoma patients compared to observation alone[3][6][7]. Development has been largely discontinued for these indications.

Other names

GM2-KLH vaccineGM-2-KLH vaccineGM 2-KLH vaccineGM2-KLH conjugate vaccineGM-2-KLH conjugate vaccineGM 2-KLH conjugate vaccine