Innovative Nanoparticle Vaccine Shows Promise Against Multiple Cancers in Mice

Researchers from the University of Massachusetts Amherst have developed a groundbreaking nanoparticle-based vaccine that offers potential for preventing various cancers and halting metastatic spread in mice. This innovative approach demonstrated remarkable efficacy, with up to 88% of vaccinated mice remaining free of tumors depending on the cancer type. The vaccine not only prevented tumor formation but also significantly reduced metastasis, particularly to the lungs, which is a major challenge in cancer treatment.

The study, published in Cell Reports Medicine, utilized a platform technology that combines multiple immune activation pathways with cancer-specific antigens. This multi-pathway activation enhances the immune system's ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. The vaccine was formulated using advanced lipid nanoparticles that co-deliver immune adjuvants, leading to a robust and targeted immune response.

In experiments involving melanoma, pancreatic, and triple-negative breast cancers, the nanoparticle vaccine successfully activated T cells, the immune system’s primary soldiers against cancer. When mice were later exposed to cancer cells, a significant proportion remained tumor-free and showed no signs of metastasis. Notably, 80% of mice vaccinated with melanoma antigens stayed tumor-free over an extended period of 250 days, surpassing the lifespan of unvaccinated or traditionally vaccinated mice.

Furthermore, the vaccine demonstrated systemic protection against metastasis, with no lung tumors developing in vaccinated mice, unlike in control groups. For broader applicability, the researchers used tumor lysates—dead cancer cells from different tumor types—as antigens, achieving high rejection rates: 88% for pancreatic, 75% for breast, and 69% for melanoma. These results indicate the vaccine’s potential as a versatile platform adaptable across various cancer types.

This platform’s design aims to serve both preventive and therapeutic purposes, especially for high-risk groups. The team has translated their research into a startup, NanoVax Therapeutics, to pursue clinical development. Future steps include expanding this technology into therapeutic vaccines and refining the platform for human trials.

According to lead author Griffin Kane, the vaccine’s powerful T-cell response stems from the unique nanoparticle architecture that fosters coordinated immune activation. This approach addresses one of the biggest hurdles in oncology—metastasis—and offers hope for long-lasting immune memory that can protect against cancer recurrence.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-nanoparticle-vaccine-multiple-cancers-metastasis.html