Infinitopes launches first-in-human trial of vaccine targeting oesophageal cancer

Ella Day | April 9, 2025 | News story | Research and Development |  Infinitopes, Oncology, biotech, oesophageal cancer, oncology 

The cancer biotech company Infinitopes has gained approval by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) to evaluate its ITOP1 vaccine targeting oesophageal cancer. This marks the first ever trial to administer a cancer vaccine in a neoadjuvant setting while the primary tumour remains.

With Clinical Trial Application (CTA) approval, the upcoming phase 1/2a VISTA study will assess the safety and anti-tumour activity of the vaccine in reducing oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) recurrence rates. Simulating a robust immune system, the vaccine targets tumour antigens like CD8+ cytotoxics, eliminating residual cancer cells expressing the target antigens and the risk of disease recurrence.

The study will take place across four specialist university cancer centres in the UK, led by Mark Middleton, professor of experimental cancer medicine at the University of Oxford.

The treatment leverages the company’s innovative artificial intelligence and machine learning driven immunopeptidomics approach. This reflects the company’s wider use of precision target discovery and vector delivery systems to develop vaccines against tumours.

“This marks a major performance milestone for the company, bringing Infinitopes an important step closer to offering lifesaving solutions for patients with oesophageal and other aggressive cancers,” said Jonathan Kwok, chief executive officer and co-founder of Infinitopes.

Middleton added: “ITOP1 is an exciting new immunotherapy with the potential to make a difference across a wide range of cancers, bringing hope to many patients.”

Ella Day
9/4/25