Scientists are developing immunological therapies that trigger a response by a patient’s immune system against the cancer. The purpose of this study is to determine the highest dose of an immunotherapy called HER2/neu immunization that can be given safely, and to see if this preparation can stimulate an immune response in women with breast cancer that has metastasized (spread) or has a high risk of metastasizing.
Antigens are targets for immune cells. If an immune cell recognizes an antigen on a tumor cell, it may help to trigger a reaction against the tumor. The immunization prepared for this clinical trial targets an antigen called the HER2 protein, which is over-produced by some breast cancer cells.
The injection used in this study is a piece of DNA (genetic material) made in bacteria which contain the gene for rat HER2.
To be eligible for this study, patients must meet several criteria, including but not limited to the following:
For more information and to see if you are eligible for this study, please contact Dr. Teresa Gilewski at 646-888-5451.