MVX-ONCO-1

MVX-ONCO-1 is a personalized, cell-based cancer vaccine developed by MaxiVAX SA. The therapy utilizes a unique two-component approach to overcome immune tolerance and stimulate a robust anti-tumor response. It consists of inactivated autologous tumor cells, which serve as a patient-specific source of tumor antigens, and a biocompatible capsule containing allogeneic human cells (MVX-1) genetically engineered to secrete granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The autologous cells are injected subcutaneously, while the capsules are implanted nearby to provide sustained local delivery of the GM-CSF adjuvant for approximately one week. This localized delivery of a potent adjuvant is designed to recruit and activate dendritic cells at the vaccination site, facilitating efficient antigen priming. MVX-ONCO-1 has been evaluated in clinical trials for advanced, refractory solid tumors, including recurrent or metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), where it has demonstrated clinical benefit as a standalone treatment and potential synergy with immune checkpoint inhibitors.