Dr. Nora Disis Highlights Cancer Prevention at the AACR Presidential Select Symposium

At one of the most influential gatherings in global cancer research, Dr. Nora Disis, Director of the Cancer Vaccine Institute (CVI), took center stage. She was selected to speak at the Presidential Select Symposium at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting, which gathers scientists, health care professionals, clinicians, patients, and advocates from around the world to share advances in cancer research.

The symposium, “Targeting Stage 0: Precision-Based Prevention,” featured four leading experts in cancer research and focused on innovative approaches to cancer prevention. In her presentation, Dr. Disis revealed results from both preclinical and clinical trials that demonstrated how vaccines can train the immune system to recognize and intercept cancer at its earliest stages. These vaccines generate T-cells, or immune cells, that recognize proteins expressed by precancerous and cancerous cells. These T-cells travel throughout the body to identify and eliminate abnormal cells and can remain in the body for years after vaccination, providing long-term immunity.

Dr. Disis also highlighted efforts at intercepting Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS), which accounts for 15-20% of all new breast cancer diagnoses. While DCIS is often treated with surgery and radiation, Dr. Disis shed light on how vaccines might be an effective tool to intercept this type of cancer.

She further shared results from a preclinical study of ADVAC, an anti-inflammatory vaccine designed to reduce obesity-associated inflammation, which is a risk factor for breast and other types of cancer. This vaccine reversed markers of diabetes in obese mice and also protected them from developing breast cancer.

Dr. Disis’ multifaceted presentation reflects the CVI’s commitment to advancing cancer treatment, prevention, and interception. We are so proud to be at the forefront of this life-changing research.

Photo Credits: Lisa Stromme Warren