UK-based GSK and the University of Oxford have entered a new research collaboration focused on the potential of cancer prevention through vaccination.
The new partnership, dubbed GSK-Oxford Cancer Immuno-Prevention Programme, aims to explore precancer biology, potentially leading to advanced cancer vaccination strategies.
GSK will invest up to £50m over at least three years to support this pioneering research.
The collaboration will conduct translational research to understand how cancer develops from normal cells to precancerous and cancerous stages.
GSK chief scientific officer Tony Wood said: “We’re pleased to further strengthen our relationship with Oxford University and to combine the deep knowledge of Oxford and GSK scientists.
“By exploring precancer biology and building on GSK’s expertise in the science of the immune system, we aim to generate key insights for people at risk of developing cancer.”
Oxford University brings expertise in precancer biology, particularly in identifying and sequencing neoantigens, tumour-specific proteins that alert the immune system to cancer.
Its unique focus could help target the vulnerabilities of precancerous cells through advanced vaccines or targeted medicines, preventing their progression to cancer.
The collaboration builds on GSK’s existing relationship with Oxford, combining GSK’s immune system expertise with Oxford’s advanced research and clinical capabilities.
In 2021, GSK and Oxford established the Institute of Molecular and Computational Medicine at the University of Oxford.
The Institute is focused on research and development in neurodegeneration, using insights from human genetics and technologies such as functional genomics and machine learning.
University of Oxford vice-chancellor Professor Irene Tracey said: “This partnership represents a step forward in cancer research.
“By working with GSK to unite experts in clinical trials, immuno-oncology, vaccinology and precancer research from across the University of Oxford, we aim to unlock the potential of cancer vaccines and bring hope to patients worldwide.”
In a separate development, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) has accepted to regulatory application for GSK’s Recombinant Zoster Vaccine (RZV) Shingrix, in a prefilled syringe format.
Shingrix is intended for the prevention of shingles (herpes zoster), and its prefilled syringe format eliminates the need to reconstitute separate vials before administration.
Also, the prefilled syringe provides physicians, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals with a convenient option to administer vaccinations.
According to GSK, the current presentation of the vaccine consists of a lyophilised (powder) antigen and a liquid adjuvant, which must be mixed before administering.
The new presentation has the same composition as the powder formulation, and the submission is based on data demonstrating comparability between the two.
