Tumor-associated antigens encoded by CVHNLC (CVHNLC)

Tumor-associated antigens encoded by CVHNLC represent a specific set of eight immunogenic proteins targeted by CureVac's mRNA-based precision immunotherapy for squamous non-small cell lung cancer (sqNSCLC) [2, 4]. This multi-epitope target includes four established tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) with known prevalence in solid tumors and four novel proprietary antigens identified through a whole-genome discovery platform, including sequences from non-exomic regions [4, 9]. These antigens are designed to be expressed by the patient's own cells following administration of the CVHNLC mRNA vaccine, which utilizes a second-generation mRNA backbone formulated in lipid nanoparticles [4, 6]. Once expressed, the antigens are processed and presented by antigen-presenting cells to stimulate a robust, dual-pathway immune response involving both CD8+ cytotoxic T cells and CD4+ helper T cells [1, 7]. In clinical development, these targets are being evaluated in combination with the PD-1 inhibitor pembrolizumab to enhance anti-tumor efficacy and overcome immune evasion in patients with advanced sqNSCLC [2, 11]. This approach aims to provide an off-the-shelf solution for a broad population of patients with squamous lung cancer by targeting shared antigens [5, 9].

Other names

CV09070101 antigensCV-09070101 antigensSquamous non-small cell lung cancer antigens (CVHNLC)CVHNLC-encoded TAAs

The CVHNLC vaccine delivers mRNA encoding eight tumor-associated antigens into host cells, where they are translated and presented by MHC molecules to induce a targeted T-cell mediated immune response against squamous non-small cell lung cancer cells.