Belagenpumatucel-L for the treatment of non-small cell lung cancer

Abstract

Introduction: Immunotherapy has become a promising approach for the treatment of NSCLC. In order to stimulate the host immune system against tumour antigens, several cancer vaccines have been generated and evaluated. Belagenpumatucel-L is a whole tumour cell vaccine expressing the antisense strand of the TGF-β2 gene.

Areas covered: The purpose of this article is to review the most relevant findings of clinical trials testing belagenpumatucel-L in advanced NSCLC patients.

Expert opinion: Although the Phase III trial investigating belagenpumatucel-L in stage III/IV patients did not meet its primary end point, a survival benefit was observed in several subgroups of patients. Further studies are needed in order to select patients who may benefit from this vaccine.

Keywords:

• Belagenpumatucel-L
• NSCLC
• TGF-β2
• vaccines

Declaration of interest

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organisation or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

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