Thursday, November 16, 2006

Antigenics Data Shows Vaccine Oncophage Produces Immune Response in Nerve Cancer Patients

ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) -- Biotech drug developer Antigenics Inc. said Thursday its cancer vaccine Oncophage produced a specific immune response to cancer of the nervous system.
In a early-to-midstage clinical trial, six patients with high-grade glioma given Oncophage showed an immune reponse specific to their tumors. Glioma is a cancer that affects the connective tissue cells that surround and support nerve cells.

"This is the first documentation of a glioma-specific immune response after vaccination with Oncophage," said Dr. Andrew T. Parsa, a principal investigator in the trial.

Oncophage uses material from an individual's tumor to reprogram the body's immune system to attack target cells with similar genetic material.

Antigenics shares rose 6 cents, or 2.6 percent, to $2.37 in afternoon trading on the Nasdaq.

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