UCLA Vaccine May Prevent Certain Cancers from Returning

An experimental vaccine has shown promise in preventing pancreatic and colorectal cancers from recurring, according to a clinical trial led by UCLA’s Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Researchers said the vaccine, ELI-002 2P, triggered strong immune responses and may help delay or prevent recurrence in patients with KRAS mutations, which drive about half of colorectal cancers and more than 90% of pancreatic cancers.

The study involved 25 patients previously treated for the two cancers, Jordan Perkins reported for The Hill.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in U.S. men and women, while pancreatic cancer accounts for about 3% of cases nationwide, according to the American Cancer Society.

Researchers said the vaccine, ELI-002 2P, triggered strong immune responses and may help delay or prevent recurrence in patients with KRAS mutations, which drive about half of colorectal cancers and more than 90% of pancreatic cancers.

After more than a year of follow-up, the trial showed average relapse-free survival of 16 months and overall survival of 28 months — both above historical norms.

The greatest benefit was seen in patients with strong mKRAS-specific T-cell responses.

Dr. Thomas Marron, an oncologist unaffiliated with the study, told NewsNation the results are “extremely promising,” since both cancers have high recurrence risks.

“This vaccine is about teaching patients’ immune systems how to recognize and attack those tiny amounts of cancer cells so that they keep them from coming back,” Marron said. UCLA’s vaccine could become available within the next few years, he added.