Vegf-based vaccine for modulating tumor microenvironment

Overview

HEBERSaVax is an innovative VEGF-targeting vaccine designed to modulate the tumor microenvironment (TME) by inducing a physiological immune response. This approach targets the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), a key proangiogenic and immunosuppressive factor in tumors. By promoting the production of neutralizing antibodies and cytotoxic T cells, the vaccine aims to reduce both systemic and local levels of VEGF, potentially enhancing the efficacy of other immune system components and cancer therapies.

Technical specifications

The vaccine has been developed and tested in various animal models and early-phase clinical trials, demonstrating its ability to induce specific anti-VEGF titers and increase T cell activity against VEGF-secreting cells. Key technical features include:

• Induction of specific antibodies to block VEGF-VEGFR2 interactions
• Enhancement of T cell clones with increased IFN-gamma and GRZ-B expression
• Potential to combine with other therapies like CART cells and checkpoint inhibitors

Future validation involves testing the vaccine in orthotopic models of colorectal, renal, and ovarian carcinomas, using advanced techniques like single-cell sequencing and spatial proteomics.

Technology readiness level

The vaccine has reached Technology Readiness Level 5, having been validated in animal models and early-phase clinical trials. Further studies are planned to assess its impact on the tumor microenvironment using advanced preclinical models.