Breast cancer vaccine in human clinical trials shows promise in preventing recurrence of triple-negative breast cancer. Triple-negative breast cancer, which makes up 10% to 15% of all breast cancers, is challenging to treat and has a higher rate of recurrence compared to other types of breast cancer. The vaccine, currently being tested at the Cleveland Clinic, aims to target this aggressive form of breast cancer.
The first person to receive the vaccine in the clinical trial is Jennifer Davis, a 46-year-old nurse and mother of three from Ohio. Davis was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in September 2018 and underwent a double mastectomy, chemotherapy, and radiation. Learning about the vaccine trial during a follow-up appointment at the Cleveland Clinic, Davis decided to participate due to the high risk of recurrence associated with triple-negative breast cancer.
The vaccine works by training the immune system to recognize alpha-lactalbumin, a protein found in breast tumors. By targeting this protein, the vaccine helps the immune system identify and attack emerging cancer cells. So far, the results from the phase I clinical trial have been promising, with 16 women receiving the vaccine and generating robust immunity to the target protein. The side effects have been mild, consisting mainly of irritation at the injection sites.
Dr. G. Thomas Budd, principal investigator of the study, expressed the ultimate goal of developing a vaccine to prevent breast cancer in people at risk. However, larger clinical trials, including the upcoming phase II, are needed to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of the vaccine. If successful, the vaccine could be available within five years for women who have already had breast cancer and are worried about recurrence.
While the breast cancer vaccine is still in its early stages, experts hope that it could potentially eliminate breast cancer as a disease, similar to how polio and smallpox have been eradicated. Vaccines have proven to be effective tools in preventing various diseases, and researchers believe they can play a crucial role in advancing medicine and making significant changes in cancer treatment.
Participating in clinical trials like this one is crucial for advancing medical research and finding potential cures. Jennifer Davis, as a nurse herself, understands the importance of clinical trials and hopes that her participation will contribute to the development of a vaccine that can eliminate or significantly reduce the recurrence of triple-negative breast cancer.