10,000 Brits could take part in cancer vaccine trials
Up to 70 new jobs are expected for top scientists in Cambridge
Last updated 6th Jul 2023
Up to 70 new jobs are expected to be created for top scientists in Cambridge working on cancer vaccines.
It works by stimulating the immune system to recognise and eliminate cancer cells.
The Government has signed an agreement with a leading pharmaceutical firm, BioNTech, which developed a coronavirus vaccine with Pfizer in less than a year.
Up to 10,000 Britons are set to take part in clinical trials for vaccines by 2030.
The technology is similar to the coronavirus vaccine and can be designed to target shared abnormalities in a specific type of cancer or tailored to an individual’s tumour.
"Cancer vaccines have the potential to completely revolutionise the way we treat this cruel disease"
A new Cancer Vaccine Launch Pad (CVLP) will create a database to help quickly identify cancer patients who could be eligible for potential trials.
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said: “This landmark new agreement takes us one step closer to delivering life-saving new cancer treatments for thousands of patients right across the country.
“Personalised cancer vaccines have the potential to completely revolutionise the way we treat this cruel disease.
"It is hugely welcome that ... clinical trials will be rolled out widely”.
Most participants are not expected to enrol in the trial before 2026 and they will have to consent.
Health Secretary, and MP for North East Cambridgeshire, Steve Barclay said: “This partnership is a huge step forward in the fight against cancer.
"“This further demonstrates that the UK is an attractive location for innovative companies to invest and pioneer cutting-edge treatments for our patients.”