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One of the principal activities of my laboratory is the development of novel immunotherapeutic strategies and vaccine designs for treating cancer and infectious diseases. The focus of our studies is to understand the balance
between the ability of the immune system to detect a tumor and the tumor’s capacity to evade detection. We employ a unique technology based on the delivery of antigens using the AAV (Adeno Associated Virus) vector to dendritic cells which increases immunogenicity of antigens to promote a robust immune response and a better clinical outcome. This technology uses
recombinant AAV vectors to deliver antigen and cytokine genes into dendritic cells. AAV can deliver genes into >90% of DC which can then be used to generate significant and rapid cytotoxic T cell (CTL) responses. Not only can antigen genes be delivered effectively into DC but also into cytokine genes. These signaling proteins will be very valuable for further enhancing the immune response. Preliminary studies suggest a strong likelihood for success using this technology to increase
CTL against cancer and infectious agents.
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