Ep. 61: “Pancreatic Cancer” Featuring Dr. Vinod Balachandran
Aug 29, 2023
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Discover the revolutionary mRNA vaccination approach for pancreatic cancer by Dr. Vinod Balachandran, highlighting potential benefits for patients. Dive into the interaction between the immune system and gut microbiome, along with the rejuvenating effects of young blood components on aging. Explore the significance of T cell immunity in preventing influenza infections and the role of mentorship in a surgeon-scientist's career journey.
Targeting new antigens crucial for improving pancreatic cancer outcomes.
Individualized mRNA vaccines show promise in stimulating T cell responses for pancreatic cancer patients.
Collaboration and innovation overcome challenges in developing personalized cancer vaccines during the pandemic.
Deep dives
Importance of Individualized Immunotherapy for Pancreatic Cancer Patients
Dr. Vinod Balashandran discusses the critical need for new therapies for pancreatic cancer due to its low survival rates despite current treatments. He highlights the importance of targeting new antigens to improve outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients.
The Development of Individualized mRNA Vaccination for Pancreatic Cancer
Dr. Balashandran's research explores the use of individualized mRNA vaccines targeting neoantigens in pancreatic cancer patients. These vaccines stimulate T cell responses to mutation-derived neoantigens and show promise in preventing cancer recurrence.
Safety, Feasibility, and Immunogenicity of mRNA Vaccines in Pancreatic Cancer Patients
In a phase one trial, individualized mRNA vaccines were found to be safe and feasible for pancreatic cancer patients. These vaccines effectively stimulated T cell responses in 50% of patients, correlating with delayed cancer recurrence in responders versus non-responders.
Challenges and Triumphs in Collaborative Vaccine Development
Through collaboration with Genentech and BioNTech, Dr. Balashandran navigated the complexities of vaccine development during the pandemic, overcoming global supply chain disruptions to accelerate the clinical trial. The study demonstrated the rapid and effective translation of lab discoveries to clinical applications.
Dr. Balashandran's Journey as a Surgeon Scientist
Dr. Balashandran shares his career trajectory from aspiring veterinarian to surgeon scientist, influenced by inspiring mentors and pivotal experiences in the field of immunotherapy. His passion for problem-solving and translational research underscores his commitment to advancing cancer therapies.
Dr. Vinod Blachandran is an Attending Surgeon and Lab Head at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He talks about neoantigen vaccines for pancreatic cancer, what can be learned from a rare group of long-term survivors, and how surgeon-scientist mentors have influenced his career.
