Theoretical Article

Immunology and Cell Biology (1997) 75, 184–189; doi:10.1038/icb.1997.26

Vaccines for control of fertility and hormone-dependent cancers*

GP Talwar1

1Reproductive Health and Vaccinology Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi, India

Correspondence: Professor of Eminence GP Talwar, Reproductive Health and Vaccinology Division, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India.

Based on the Oration given at the First Congress of the Federation of Immunological Societies of Asia-Occania (FIMSA), Adelaide, SA, Australia, December 1996.

Received 5 December 1996; Accepted 5 December 1996.

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Abstract

This article traces and reviews the development of vaccines against two reproductive hormones, luteinizing hormone release hormone (LHRH) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG). The heterospecies dimer (HSD)-dehydrogenase hCG vaccine is the first to have completed phase II clinical trials providing evidence for the prevention of pregnancy in humans by immunization with this vaccine. The vaccine acts without blocking ovulation or disturbance of menstrual bleeding. Its effect is fully reversible and fertility is regained with decline of the antibodies. The antibody response in humans is directed against immunodominant epitopes located in the core part of betahCG, distinct from the C-terminal region, However, problems arising from carrier-conjugated vaccines against 'self' hormones such as carrier-induced immunosuppression on repeated immunization are evoked and solutions discussed. The LHRH vaccine, a model semi-synthetic vaccine, can be used in both sexes and has applications in regulation of fertility of animals. It has therapeutic applications as a cost-effective approach in clinical conditions where LHRH agonists and antagonists have therapeutic action. The vaccine has undergone phase 1 and H clinical trials in advanced-stage carcinoma of prostate patients with encouraging results.

Keywords:

carcinoma prostate, carrier-induced immunosuppression, hCG and LHRH vaccines, hCG synthesizing lung cancer, immunodominant epitopes, T non-B peptides

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References

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