Adenovirus/PSA Vaccine for Prostate Cancer
(APP21 Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a vaccine designed to enhance the body's immune response against prostate cancer cells remaining after local treatments like surgery or radiation. Participants are divided into two groups: one receives only the vaccine, while the other receives both the vaccine and androgen deprivation therapy, a hormone therapy that lowers male hormone levels. Men whose prostate cancer has returned after surgery or radiation, and who show no signs of the cancer spreading, might be suitable candidates for this study. As a Phase 2 trial, the research focuses on evaluating the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group of people.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on immunosuppressive drugs or certain hormone therapies for prostate cancer, you may need to stop them as they are not allowed in the study.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that the Adenovirus/PSA Vaccine is safe for people. In earlier studies, patients experienced no serious side effects from the vaccine. Most participants had a positive immune response, meaning their bodies recognized and reacted well to it.
When combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), which lowers male hormone levels to slow cancer growth, no new safety issues have emerged. Overall, the vaccine has been well-tolerated. These findings suggest that the treatment is generally safe for those considering participation in this clinical trial.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about the Adenovirus/PSA Vaccine because it represents a novel approach to treating recurrent prostate cancer. Unlike traditional treatments like surgery, radiation, and hormone therapy, this vaccine uses a virus to deliver a piece of the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) to the immune system, effectively training it to recognize and attack cancer cells. This mechanism of action is particularly promising as it could lead to a targeted immune response against cancer, potentially reducing the risk of recurrence. Additionally, when combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), there's hope that the vaccine might enhance the effectiveness of standard hormone treatments, offering a new avenue for managing the disease.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for prostate cancer?
Research has shown that the Adenovirus/PSA vaccine can activate strong immune responses in men with recurring prostate cancer. In earlier studies, 77% of patients experienced an increase in T cells that help the body identify and attack cancer cells. Another study found that 68% of patients had a positive T-cell response, and 34% developed antibodies against PSA, a protein associated with prostate cancer. In this trial, participants in one arm will receive the Adenovirus/PSA vaccine alone, while those in another arm will receive the vaccine combined with androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), which lowers male hormone levels that help cancer grow. The vaccine maintained these strong immune responses when used with ADT. These findings suggest that the vaccine, whether used alone or with ADT, may effectively help fight prostate cancer by boosting the body's immune system.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
David M Lubaroff, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Iowa
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT)
Subjects in Arm B will be started on androgen deprivation therapy 14 days prior to beginning the vaccinations
Vaccination
Subjects will be vaccinated three times, each injection administered at 30-day intervals
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Adenovirus/PSA Vaccine
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
David M Lubaroff
Lead Sponsor
United States Department of Defense
Collaborator