GMK ganglioside conjugate vaccine update

Progenics was to announce today that it has started NCI-sponsored Phase III trials of its ganglioside conjugate GMK vaccine. The vaccine incorporates GM2 ganglioside, which is present in 95 percent of melanoma cells, coupled to the carrier protein keyhole limpet hemocyanin (KLH) and mixed with QS-21 adjuvant. Gangliosides are composed of carbohydrates and lipids present on the surface of cells. Vaccination is designed to induce antibodies against GM2.

The trial will enroll 800 Stage IIB and III melanoma patients who have undergone surgical removal of all known disease, but who are at high risk of relapse. Patients will receive either GMK at a dose that delivers 30 µg of GM2, or high-dose alpha interferon. ...