GM-CSF Gene-Modifed Cancer Cell Immunotherapies: Of Mice and Men

Abstract

GVAX cancer immunotherapies are composed of whole tumor cells genetically modified to secrete the immune stimulatory cytokine, granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), and then irradiated to prevent further cell division. Both autologous (patient specific) and allogeneic (non–patient specific) GVAX platforms have been evaluated either as single agents or in combination with other immunomodulatory strategies. Many early-phase clinical trials have now been completed. Results have consistently demonstrated a favorable safety profile manifested primarily by injection site reactions and flu-like symptoms. Consistent evidence of immune activation and clinical activity, including radiologic tumor regressions, has been seen across multiple cancer indications in both early- and late-stage disease. Phase 3 trials evaluating an allogeneic GVAX immunotherapy product in prostate cancer are under way.

Keywords:

• cancer vaccine
• GM-CSF
• GVAX
• immunotherapy