Klin Onkol 2006; 19(1): 26-29.
Backgrounds:
Malignant cells in multiple myeloma produce a monoclonal immunoglobulin which is tumor-specific and can be used for the induction of T lymphocytes. The idiotype (Id) is expressed at the cell surface of malignant plasma cells and allows for recognition and targeting of these cells by Id-specific T lymphocytes.Design and subject:
A phase II clinical study underwent in our centre, investigating the efficacy and toxicity of Id conjugated with keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) given as a vaccine. 12 patients with multiple myeloma with stable disease or with slow progression not requiring systemic therapy were immunized six times without interleukin-2 (IL-2) or with IL-2 in the last three vaccination.
Methods and Results:
No significant toxicities were observed during vaccination. Three patients relapsed during the study, one patient died without connection to vaccination. Id-specific delayed type hypersensitivity skin tests were positive in 7 of 7 tested patients. The generation of Id-specific T-cell proliferative responses was documented in 2 patients. No significant production of interferon gamma was recorded. Relative number of memory B cells increased. No significant clinical response was observed.
Conclusions:
These findings shows that Id-protein is not a strong immunogen, therefore, the Id-KLH vaccine boosted by IL2 can not evoke a significant clinical response.
