When standard options aren't enough, know what else exists

Mechanism

Messenger RNA is used to instruct the patient's own cells to produce specific proteins — for example tumor-associated antigens — so the immune system can learn to recognize cancer cells.

Eligibility assessment

Physicians review pathology, molecular testing and treatment history to assess whether an mRNA-based protocol is applicable to the case.

Process

Eligible patients receive treatment at qualified centers under physician supervision, with immune monitoring throughout.

Mechanism

Short chains of amino acids (peptides) are designed to interact with specific cellular targets involved in tumor growth or immune regulation.

Eligibility assessment

Target expression and prior treatment response are evaluated from the patient's records before any plan is discussed.

Process

Treatment is administered in clinical settings with regular laboratory and imaging follow-up.

Mechanism

A patient's dendritic cells — the immune system's 'instructors' — are prepared outside the body (in some protocols using a Listeria-based vector, 'Lm') and reintroduced to help direct immune responses toward tumor cells.

Eligibility assessment

Immune status, tumor type and stage are reviewed by the treating team to determine suitability.

Process

Cell preparation follows strict laboratory protocols; administration and monitoring take place at the treating hospital.