Significant research is ongoing into vaccines aimed at preventing breast cancer. As science delves into the genetic and physiologic changes that occur in breast cancer, pathways for risk reduction are expanded. Recent studies have shown promise in this area:
- α-Lactalbumin Vaccine: Researchers at the Cleveland Clinic have developed a vaccine targeting α-lactalbumin, a protein expressed in breast tissue. In mouse models, this vaccine effectively prevented breast tumors, demonstrating both safety and efficacy.
- MUC1 Vaccine: A Phase I clinical trial is investigating a vaccine targeting the MUC1 protein, which is overexpressed in many breast cancers. This study aims to prevent the progression of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) to invasive breast cancer.
- Neoantigen DNA Vaccine: At Washington University School of Medicine, a small clinical trial has shown that a neoantigen DNA vaccine can elicit immune responses in patients with triple-negative breast cancer, suggesting potential for preventing tumor recurrence.
- HER2/neu Peptide Vaccine (NeuVax): NeuVax is a vaccine targeting the HER2/neu protein, which is implicated in certain breast cancers. Phase II trials have demonstrated its safety and effectiveness in reducing recurrence rates among patients with low-to-intermediate HER2 expression. A Phase III trial is ongoing to further evaluate its potential.
These developments highlight a growing commitment to exploring vaccine-based prevention strategies for breast cancer. While challenges remain, the progress in clinical trials offers hope for future preventive treatments.
