PVX7 for Cervical Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a new vaccine, PVX7, for individuals with advanced cervical cancer who have completed their main treatment. The researchers aim to determine if this vaccine is safe and can potentially benefit those with no remaining signs of cancer. Two methods are being tested: injection into the muscle and application to the skin. Candidates for this trial include those who have had advanced cervical cancer, completed main treatments within the past year, and show no signs of the disease based on recent check-ups. As a Phase 1 trial, participants will be among the first to receive this new treatment, aiding researchers in understanding its effects in people.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the PVX7 trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you can continue anti-PD-1 or anti-PD-L1 therapy if you are already on it. If you are on immunosuppressive drugs or need ongoing anticoagulation, you may need to stop those before participating.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that the pBI-11 DNA vaccine, when combined with TA-HPV, strengthens the immune system against cancers linked to HPV. Previous studies have examined how well these vaccines work together to protect against HPV types 16 and 18, which are often found in cervical cancer.
Detailed safety information for this trial's treatments is not yet available, but insights can be gained from the trial phase. Phase 1 trials are early tests that assess the safety and tolerability of the treatment in people. This provides some understanding of the treatment's safety, though it remains in the early stages of testing.
In other studies, these vaccines have shown promise, but ongoing and future research will provide more information about their safety. Participation in these trials helps gather this important information.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about PVX7 for cervical cancer because it introduces a novel approach using a combination of pBI-11 DNA and TA-HPV. Unlike standard treatments like surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy, PVX7 aims to stimulate the immune system to target cancer cells directly. This immunotherapy is delivered either through intramuscular injection or skin scarification, offering flexible delivery methods that could enhance patient comfort and treatment efficacy. This innovative mechanism could represent a significant step forward in personalized cancer care.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for cervical cancer?
Research has shown that the pBI-11 DNA vaccine, when combined with the TA-HPV vaccine, strengthens the body's defense against cancers caused by HPV. This trial will evaluate two methods of administering this combination: IM Injection and Skin Scarification. The combination boosts the activity of CD8+ T cells, which play a crucial role in attacking cancer cells. Studies have also found that this vaccine approach can significantly slow tumor growth. When used with other treatments, these vaccines have demonstrated even better tumor control. These findings suggest that the pBI-11 DNA and TA-HPV vaccines could effectively treat advanced cervical cancer.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephanie Gaillard, MD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for advanced cervical cancer patients who've finished their main treatment. They must not have HIV or hepatitis, be willing to follow the study rules, and sign a consent form. Their blood counts need to meet specific levels and they shouldn't have any signs of cancer coming back when checked by doctors.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive PVX7 immunotherapy with vaccinations at weeks 1, 5, and 9
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PVX7
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins
Lead Sponsor
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Collaborator