Dr. Matthew Kurian is a hematologist/oncologist at St. Elizabeth Physicians. He sees patients at the Cancer Center — Edgewood and the Ft. Thomas locations.
What is the breast cancer vaccine, and how does it work?
The breast cancer vaccine is an innovative therapy undergoing its first human clinical trial. Researchers designed the vaccine to train the immune system to recognize and attack breast cancer cells. It does this by targeting a specific protein found only in breast cancer cells. The vaccine safely introduces this protein to the immune system so the body can develop an immune response against it. When cancer cells with the protein are present in the body, the immune system identifies and destroys them before they grow.
What specific protein does the vaccine target, and why is it important?
The vaccine targets a protein called alpha-lactalbumin, found only in breast cancer cells — not in normal, healthy cells. The presence of the alpha-lactalbumin protein allows the immune system to identify and attack the specific cancer cells without harming other healthy cells.
Who is currently receiving the vaccine in the trial?
Researchers are currently testing the vaccine on women who have previously had breast cancer and are cancer-free after treatment but who are at high risk for a recurrence. Currently, the trial focuses specifically on women who had triple-negative breast cancer. This type of breast cancer is one of the most aggressive forms. It also lacks the common markers that other treatments typically target. These characteristics make triple-negative breast cancer a priority for new treatment options like the vaccine.
What were the early results of the vaccine trial, and why are they promising?
Early results show the vaccine helps stimulate an immune response against the targeted protein. Researchers believe these early results could lead to a significant impact in preventing breast cancer from returning. The vaccine could be especially promising for those high-risk patients who have limited treatment options after their initial breast cancer treatment.
What is the goal of the vaccine?
The goal of the vaccine is to prevent breast cancer from coming back in patients at high risk. Since the vaccine works to train the immune system to attack cancer cells as soon as they develop, it should help reduce the chance of recurrence. The vaccine also targets cancer cells that may remain after initial treatment and prevent new cancer cells from growing.
What are the next steps in the vaccine trial, and are other vaccines being developed?
The next steps for the vaccine include further testing in clinical trials. Phase II and III clinical trials will confirm its safety and effectiveness in a larger patient population. The continued trials will help determine the right dosing and long-term outcomes and identify potential side effects. Researchers are also developing additional vaccines focusing on other forms of cancer.
How does St. Elizabeth support patients at high risk of breast cancer recurrence?
St. Elizabeth offers personalized care for patients at high risk for having their breast cancer return. This support includes access to preventive care options, regular monitoring, advanced diagnostic testing and the latest treatments. The Cancer Center offers genetic counseling and testing to determine individual risk factors. Patients may also have opportunities to participate in clinical trials for new therapies.
What diagnostic services does St. Elizabeth offer for early breast cancer detection?
St. Elizabeth offers a full range of breast cancer diagnostic services, including 3D mammograms, ultrasounds, breast MRIs and genetic testing. These services help detect breast cancer early, improving the chances of successful treatment. Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced radiologists and technologists who specialize in breast imaging.
How does St. Elizabeth ensure personalized breast cancer care?
St. Elizabeth creates personalized treatment plans by bringing together a team of experts from multiple specialties. Your care team may include oncologists, surgeons, radiation therapists and others. This collaborative team develops a treatment plan based on your specific type of cancer, stage of disease, genetic factors and personal preferences. We design each care plan to address your specific needs and goals, from diagnosis through treatment and recovery. Our comprehensive plans include nutritional counseling, physical therapy and psychological support to focus on all areas of your health and well-being.
Learn more about cancer care services at St. Elizabeth Healthcare.
