But there is still much to learn about the relationship between cancer and our immune system, and how to harness the immune response to improve prevention and treatment of cancer.
A recent Elizabeth Blackwell Institute workshop on ‘Cancer, Immunology and Microbes’ on 12 June 2024, brought together the Bristol Cancer Research Network and the Infection and Immunity Research Network to discuss potential for this exciting area of cancer research. These research networks, supported by the Institute, are made up of University of Bristol researchers, and clinicians in the NHS working together to ensure that advances in research translate into improvements in healthcare. Events like this provide a place for experts from a range of different disciplines and partner organisations to share knowledge, learn and collaborate.
Harnessing the power of our immune systems
Luca Shytaj, School of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, and Lead for the Infection and Immunity Research Network, explained: “Cancer vaccines and immunology are crucial due to their significant impact on both treatment and prevention. Harnessing the power of our immune systems could lead to the development of more targeted and less toxic cancer treatments, as well as preventative measures for certain cancers.
Helen Winter, Head of Clinical Academic Training School, University of Bristol, and Bristol Cancer Research Network Steering Committee Co-Chair, said: “Cancer vaccines hold great promise for our patients affected by cancer, offering a new approach to treating and potentially preventing cancer.
“Building on the successful development and delivery of mRNA Covid-19 vaccines, cancer vaccines are now in clinical trials and accessible for our patients in Bristol and across the region. The current approach explores mRNA vaccines personalised to tumour neoantigens, to reduce cancer recurrence and improve long-term survival rates, offering a powerful adjunct to traditional cancer treatments like surgery, chemotherapy and radiation.”
Collaboration is key
Luca Shytaj, said: “Collaboration across disciplines is essential because this work spans oncology, immunology, microbiology, genetics, and bioengineering. One of the main topics discussed during the workshop was the importance of streamlining collaboration between academics and clinicians to improve both qualitatively and quantitatively the analysis of samples from people receiving immunotherapy in Bristol. As it emerged from discussions after the workshop, there are substantial amounts of samples that could provide valuable insights into treatment responses.”
The new NHS Cancer Vaccine Launchpad (CVLP), provides an innovative and collaborative platform, uniting researchers, industry partners and healthcare providers to expedite the development and delivery of cancer vaccines, while striving to ensure equitable access for all patients.
Helen Winter explains: “The Cancer Vaccine Launchpad (CVLP) emphasises the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration, integrating expertise from researchers, industry leaders and healthcare providers. This approach aims to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical applications, ensuring rapid development and widespread distribution of innovative therapies. By fostering collaboration, the CVLP enhances resource sharing, streamlines screening for trials, promotes the adoption of best practices, ultimately aiming to improving patient outcomes and expanding access to cutting-edge treatments.
Looking to the future
Despite recent research progress, there is still much to learn about how cancer evades the immune system and how to enhance immune responses against tumours.
“Key areas of ongoing research include identifying new cancer antigens, improving vaccine delivery methods, and understanding why some patients respond better to immunotherapies than others”, said Luca Shytaj.
The UK Vaccine Innovation Pathway (VIP) is an example of a strategic initiative that has capitalised on the momentum and expertise gained during the COVID-19 pandemic in vaccine research and development.
Helen Winter explains: “By leveraging these innovative approaches and research assets the programme aims to expedite the clinical trial process for vaccines for infectious diseases and mRNA therapeutics for cancer and ensure the UK's position as a global leader in this vital area of public health.
“The CVLP is a pivotal initiative driving forward the innovation and access to cancer vaccines. By fostering inter-disciplinary collaboration, addressing research gaps and leveraging regional expertise, the CVLP is poised to make significant advancements in cancer prevention and treatment, ultimately improving outcomes for patients regionally, nationally and worldwide.”
Bristol breakthroughs
Building on the exceptional work done by Bristol researchers during the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a significant opportunity for Bristol and the Southwest region to become a hub for cancer vaccine research and development. Recent breakthroughs include:
- BioNTech 122 Study: Investigating the efficacy of mRNA vaccines in the adjuvant setting for colorectal cancer. Pipeline of other cancer vaccines anticipated in other solid tumours including pancreatic cancer that remains an unmet need.
- MSD V940-001 melanoma vaccine study at UHBW: Advancing understanding and treatment of melanoma with an innovative vaccine from Moderna.
Bristol's excellence in vaccines research foundation and collaborative environment position it to lead in the development and delivery of next-generation cancer vaccines, contributing to global efforts to combat cancer more effectively.
By establishing and supporting interdisciplinary research communities, Elizabeth Blackwell Institute is bringing together clinicians and researchers and providing a collaborative environment. This not only helps advance research but also to helps to accelerate the translation of scientific discoveries into medical practice for patients, and improving healthcare.