Researchers at University of Oxford and Moderna have developed an experimental vaccine designed to help prevent cancer in people at high genetic risk, with clinical trials expected to begin soon.
The vaccine is being developed for individuals with Lynch syndrome, an inherited condition that significantly increases the likelihood of developing several types of cancer, including colorectal, ovarian, uterine, stomach, pancreatic, kidney and skin cancers.
Scientists say the vaccine is based on mRNA technology, the same platform used in several COVID-19 vaccines. Researchers believe the approach could eventually be adapted to help prevent other forms of cancer.
Focus on Lynch Syndrome
Lynch syndrome affects approximately one in every 300 people in England, although many individuals remain unaware they carry the condition. Health experts estimate that the syndrome contributes to around 1,100 colorectal cancer cases in England each year.
The condition can raise a person’s lifetime risk of developing colorectal cancer to as much as 80 percent.
The upcoming study will evaluate whether the experimental vaccine, known as mRNA-4194, can train the immune system to identify and eliminate precancerous cells before they develop into cancer.
Clinical Trial Planned
David Church, a research fellow at the University of Oxford and lead investigator of the trial, said the goal is to teach the body’s immune system to recognize abnormal cells at an early stage and stop them from progressing into cancer.
According to researchers, the vaccine acts like a set of biological instructions, helping the immune system identify which precancerous cells should be targeted.
Scientists caution that the vaccine remains experimental and must undergo clinical testing to determine its safety and effectiveness before it can be considered for wider use.
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