Vaccinating against cancer: getting to prime time

J Immunother Cancer. 2023 Jun;11(6):e006628. doi: 10.1136/jitc-2022-006628.

Abstract

Immunotherapies, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, cellular therapies, and T-cell engagers, have fundamentally changed our approach to treating cancer. However, successes with cancer vaccines have been more difficult to realize. While vaccines against specific viruses have been widely adopted to prevent the development of cancer, only two vaccines can improve survival in advanced disease: sipuleucel-T and talimogene laherparepvec. These represent the two approaches that have the most traction: vaccinating against cognate antigen and priming responses using tumors in situ. Here, we review the challenges and opportunities researchers face in developing therapeutic vaccines for cancer.

Keywords: Adjuvants, Immunologic; Antigens, Neoplasm; Immunity; Vaccination.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Cancer Vaccines* / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Melanoma*
  • Oncolytic Virotherapy*
  • T-Lymphocytes

Substances

  • Cancer Vaccines