Cancer vaccines for Lynch syndrome in a non-human primate model
Official title: Cancer Immune-Interception in a Spontaneous Non-Human Primate Model of Lynch Syndrome
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-11378426 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A researcher is testing a vaccine approach to help prevent Lynch syndrome–related cancers by training the immune system to recognize cancer-causing changes in the colon using a primate model.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | August 22, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $582,669 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA260761-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11378426 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be individuals with Lynch syndrome or at high risk of LS-associated cancers who may benefit from future vaccine-based prevention strategies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Lynch syndrome or at risk for LS-related cancers may not benefit from this specific vaccine approach.
What this research studies
This project uses a spontaneous non-human primate model that mimics Lynch syndrome to test a vaccine strategy against tumor neoantigens. The work builds a catalog of neoantigens from LS and combines vaccination with naproxen to see if immune activation and cancer prevention can be achieved. Researchers will identify the best neoantigen peptides and assess the safety and efficacy of vaccination in a model that closely resembles human biology, with translational potential for people with LS. The study involves immunology assays, vaccine administration, monitoring for immune responses, and evaluation of any adverse effects in rhesus macaques. Overall, the goal is to move toward a human clinical translation that could prevent LS-associated cancers.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could lead to a vaccine-based prevention strategy for Lynch syndrome–related cancers in humans.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows immune activation and neoantigen targeting can be promising in LS contexts, with some early clinical signals and strong rationale for further development.
Where this research is happening
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University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vilar Sanchez, Eduardo — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Vilar Sanchez, Eduardo
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Immune clues to prevent cancer in Lynch Syndrome
A study exploring how immune signals and shared neoantigens in Lynch Syndrome could help prevent cancer by training the immune system to recognize and fight premalignant lesions.
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Personalized, Noninvasive Surveillance for Lynch Syndrome Colorectal Cancer
This project tests a noninvasive fecal test (FIT) alongside colonoscopy to tailor colorectal cancer surveillance for people with Lynch syndrome.
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Behavioral tool to boost pre-test genetic counseling for Lynch syndrome families
A risk-based program helps families at risk for Lynch syndrome get pre-test counseling more often, so they can learn about genetic testing and cancer prevention.
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Neoantigen vaccine for Lynch syndrome immune interception
A study to test a vaccine that teaches the immune system to recognize cancer-causing mutations in people with Lynch syndrome.
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Personalized colorectal cancer screening for people with Lynch syndrome
This project aims to find the best colonoscopy schedule for people with Lynch syndrome based on their specific gene.
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Stool blood testing (FIT) to guide colonoscopy checks for people with Lynch syndrome
This project will test whether a simple stool blood test (FIT) can be used alongside colonoscopies to make cancer screening easier and more personalized for adults with Lynch syndrome.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.