A novel strategy is described to identify and isolate cDNA that encode target antigens of cytotoxic T lymphocytes specific for human prostate tumors. Emphasis is placed on antigens shared by different prostate tumors. Such molecules may be the basis for broadly effective vaccines for the prevention and therapy of prostate cancer. The initial focus of these studies are in vitro models in which multiple prostate epithelial tumors have been derived by treatment of the same anchorage dependent, contact inhibited, non-tumorigenic prostate epithelial cell line with different carcinogens or oncogene transformation. In comparison with primary tumors, these in vitro selected tumor lines have the advantage that they have not been subject to immunoselection in vivo This may preserve expression of some potentially important tumor-specific antigens. In addition, the availability of a panel of control cell lines greatly facilitates the design of well-controlled experiments to identify carcinogen independent tumor antigens.

Proposed Commercial Applications

This research is directed at developing vaccines for the prevention and therapy of prostate cancer.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase I (R43)
Project #
1R43CA082948-01
Application #
2903476
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZCA1-SRRB-Y (M2))
Program Officer
Muszynski, Karen
Project Start
2000-02-16
Project End
2002-01-31
Budget Start
2000-02-16
Budget End
2001-01-31
Support Year
1
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$238,912
Indirect Cost
Name
Vaccinex, Inc.
Department
Type
DUNS #
969557438
City
Rochester
State
NY
Country
United States
Zip Code
14620