HSP72-P + AFP-P

**HSP72-P + AFP-P** is an experimental peptide-based cancer vaccine constructed by covalently linking a functional peptide from the heat shock protein 72 (HSP72, also referred to as HSP70 or HSP70-P in some references) with a defined epitope peptide from alpha-fetoprotein (AFP-P). The vaccine is designed to target cancers—mainly hepatocellular carcinoma—that overexpress AFP, a tumor-associated antigen. The HSP72 peptide serves as a molecular chaperone and immune adjuvant, enhancing antigen uptake and presentation, while the AFP peptide provides the tumor-specific antigenic determinant. Mechanistically, the vaccine stimulates antigen-specific CD8+ T cell and natural killer (NK) cell responses through MHC-I presentation, leading to targeted cytotoxicity against AFP-expressing tumor cells. Studies in mouse models have demonstrated potent antitumor immunity, increased survival, and robust T cell and NK cell response compared to controls. This vaccine represents a rational combination of immune adjuvant (HSP72-P) and tumor antigen (AFP-P) for immunotherapy of AFP-expressing tumors, especially hepatocellular carcinoma.

Other names

HSP72-P/AFP-PHSP70-P/AFP-PHSP72 + AFP-P