Scancell Holdings PLC (AIM:SCLP, OTC:SCNLF) will present early results from its phase II melanoma trial at next month’s American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) annual meeting in Chicago.
The UK-based biotech is developing SCIB1, a DNA-based cancer vaccine designed to trigger a strong and lasting immune response in patients with advanced melanoma.
The vaccine works by activating high-avidity T cells, which in turn help the immune system recognise and attack tumours, while also building immune memory to prevent recurrence.
The ongoing SCOPE trial is testing SCIB1 in combination with two checkpoint inhibitor drugs, ipilimumab and nivolumab, which are already widely used in melanoma treatment.
In an initial group of 25 patients, Scancell reported a disease control rate of 84%, a progression-free survival rate of 80%, and a complete response in 20% of cases.
The results will be presented by Scancell’s chief medical officer, Dr Nermeen Varawalla.
CEO Phil L'Huillier said: "We are excited to share these SCOPE trial results with the scientific community at AACR.
"The strong disease control and response rate, with an excellent safety profile reinforces the potential of our vaccine to transform melanoma treatment.
"Our next-generation vaccine iSCIB1+ is also being evaluated in a broader patient population within other cohorts of the study. The findings from the overall study will inform the design of our planned global randomized control registration trial."