A groundbreaking step in cancer treatment has emerged from China as an mRNA vaccine targeting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) positive tumors receives approval for Phase I clinical trials. The approval was granted by the Center for Drug Evaluation of the National Medical Products Administration, marking a significant milestone in the development of innovative cancer therapies.
Developed independently by WestGene Biopharma, a biotechnology company based in Chengdu, Sichuan Province, the vaccine aims to harness the body’s immune system to combat EBV-associated malignancies. “Our mRNA vaccine represents a major breakthrough in tumor immunotherapy,” said Song Xiangrong, co-founder of WestGene Biopharma. “We are eager to advance clinical trials across the country to bring this therapy to patients in need.”
The vaccine had previously obtained Investigational New Drug approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in May, and investigator-initiated trials in nasopharyngeal carcinoma and lymphoma have already been completed. These developments underscore the international recognition of the vaccine’s potential and the collaborative efforts in the global fight against cancer.
Epstein-Barr virus, identified as the first human oncogenic virus by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, is classified as a Group I carcinogen. It is associated with more than ten types of malignant tumors, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma, lymphoma, and gastric cancer. “Understanding the role of EBV in these cancers is crucial,” explained Song. “Our vaccine could become a pivotal tool in preventing and treating EBV-related tumors.”
The mRNA vaccine technology, which gained prominence during the COVID-19 pandemic, offers a versatile platform for developing treatments against various diseases. By introducing genetic instructions into the body’s cells, mRNA vaccines prompt the production of proteins that stimulate an immune response without using live virus particles.
WestGene Biopharma’s initiative reflects a growing focus on mRNA-based therapeutics in China and worldwide. As clinical trials commence, the medical community and patients alike await the outcomes with optimism for new avenues in cancer therapy.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
