U.S. patent application number 12/682213 was filed with the patent office on 2010-11-18 for composition for treating lung cancer, particularly of non-small lung cancers (nsclc).
Invention is credited to Marijke Barner, Ingmar Hoerr, Thomas Lander, Jochen Probst.
Application Number | 20100291156 12/682213 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 39590300 |
Filed Date | 2010-11-18 |
United States Patent
Application |
20100291156 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Barner; Marijke ; et
al. |
November 18, 2010 |
COMPOSITION FOR TREATING LUNG CANCER, PARTICULARLY OF NON-SMALL
LUNG CANCERS (NSCLC)
Abstract
The present invention relates to an active (immunostimulatory)
composition comprising at least one RNA, preferably a mRNA,
encoding at least two (preferably different) antigens capable of
eliciting an (adaptive) immune response in a mammal. The invention
furthermore relates to a vaccine comprising said active
(immunostimulatory) composition, and to the use of said active
(immunostimulatory) composition (for the preparation of a vaccine)
and/or of the vaccine for eliciting an (adaptive) immune response
for the treatment of lung cancer, particularly of non-small cell
lung cancers (NSCLC), preferably selected from the three main
sub-types squamous cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large
cell lung carcinoma, or of disorders related thereto. Finally, the
invention relates to kits, particularly to kits of parts,
containing the active (immunostimulatory) composition and/or the
vaccine.
Inventors: |
Barner; Marijke; (Stuttgart,
DE) ; Probst; Jochen; (Wolfschlugen, DE) ;
Lander; Thomas; (Konigstein I. taunus, DE) ; Hoerr;
Ingmar; (Tubingen, DE) |
Correspondence
Address: |
CONNOLLY BOVE LODGE & HUTZ, LLP
P O BOX 2207
WILMINGTON
DE
19899
US
|
Family ID: |
39590300 |
Appl. No.: |
12/682213 |
Filed: |
October 8, 2008 |
PCT Filed: |
October 8, 2008 |
PCT NO: |
PCT/EP08/08503 |
371 Date: |
July 9, 2010 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
424/277.1 ;
536/23.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A61K 2039/57 20130101;
A61K 2039/70 20130101; A61K 39/0011 20130101; A61K 2039/86
20180801; A61P 43/00 20180101; A61K 2039/53 20130101; A61K 2039/572
20130101; A61P 37/04 20180101; A61P 11/00 20180101; A61K 2039/575
20130101; A61P 35/00 20180101 |
Class at
Publication: |
424/277.1 ;
536/23.1 |
International
Class: |
A61K 39/00 20060101
A61K039/00; A61P 37/04 20060101 A61P037/04; A61P 35/00 20060101
A61P035/00; C07H 21/02 20060101 C07H021/02 |
Foreign Application Data
Date |
Code |
Application Number |
Oct 9, 2007 |
EP |
PCTEP2007008770 |
Claims
1. Active (immunostimulatory) composition comprising at least one
RNA encoding at least two different antigens, a) wherein at least
one of these at least two antigens is (are) selected from:
NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, and/or MAGE-C2; and b) wherein the further
antigen(s) is (are) selected from at least one antigen selected
from the following group: hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1, and/or MAGE-C2.
2. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein at least one of these at least two different antigens
according to a) is selected from MAGE-C1, and/or MAGE-C2.
3. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the further antigen(s) according to b) is (are) exclusively
selected from the following combinations of antigens: hTERT and
WT1; or hTERT and MAGE-A2; or hTERT and 5T4; or hTERT and MAGE-A3;
or hTERT and MUC1; or hTERT and Her-2/neu; or hTERT and NY-ESO-1;
or hTERT and CEA; or hTERT and Survivin; or hTERT and MAGE-C1; or
hTERT and MAGE-C2; or WT1 and MAGE-A2; or WT1 and 5T4; or WT1 and
MAGE-A3; or WT1 and MUC1; or WT1 and Her-2/neu; or WT1 and
NY-ESO-1; or WT1 and CEA; or WT1 and Survivin; or WT1 and MAGE-C1;
or WT1 and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A2 and 5T4; or MAGE-A2 and MAGE-A3; or
MAGE-A2 and MUC1 ; or MAGE-A2 and Her-2/neu; or MAGE-A2 and
NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A2 and CEA; or MAGE-A2 and Survivin; or MAGE-A2
and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C2; or 5T4 and MAGE-A3; or 5T4 and
MUC1; or 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or 5T4 and NY-ESO-1; or 5T4 and CEA; or
5T4 and Survivin; or 5T4 and MAGE-C1; or 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or
MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or MAGE-A3 and
NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A3 and CEA; or MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or MAGE-A3
and MAGE-C1 MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2 MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or MUC1 and
NY-ESO-1; or MUC1 and CEA; or MUC1 and Survivin; or MUC1 and
MAGE-C1; or MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or HER-2/NEU and NY-ESO-1; or
HER-2/NEU and CEA; or HER-2NEU and Survivin; or HER-2/NEU and
MAGE-C1; or HER-2/NEU and MAGE-C2; or NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or NY-ESO-1
and Survivin; or NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1 ; or NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or
CEA and Survivin; or CEA and MAGE-C1; or CEA and MAGE-C2; or
Survivin and MAGE-C1; or Survivin and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-A2; or hTERT, WT1 and 5T4; or
hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-A3; or hTERT, WT1 and MUC1; or hTERT, WT1 and
Her-2/neu; or hTERT, WT1 and NY-ESO-1; or hTERT, WT1 and CEA; or
hTERT, WT1 and Survivin; or hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1
and MAGE-C2; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and 5T4; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-A3;
or WT1, MAGE-A2 and MUC1; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and Her-2/neu; or WT1,
MAGE-A2 and NY-ESO-1; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and CEA; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and
Survivin; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C2;
or MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-A3; or MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MUC1; or MAGE-A2,
5T4 and Her-2/neu; or MAGE-A2, 5T4 and NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4
and CEA; or MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Survivin; or MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C1;
or MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and CEA; or 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
MAGE-C1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
Her-2/neu; or MAGE-A3, MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA;
or MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin; or MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or
MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin; or MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or
HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin;
or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C2; or NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or NY-ESO-1, CEA and
MAGE-C1; or NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C1; or CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or Survivin, MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and 5T4; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and
MAGE-A3; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and MUC1 ; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2
and Her-2/neu; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and NY-ESO-1; or hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2 and CEA; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and Survivin; or hTERT,
WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C2; or
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-A3; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MUC1; or
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and NY-ESO-1;
or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and CEA; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Survivin; or
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
Her-2/neu; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and CEA; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2; or
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, and Her-2/neu; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
NY-ESO-1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
Survivin; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1
and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin;
or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1 ; or MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or
HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA
and MAGE-C1; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or NY-ESO-1,
CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2;
or CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4
and MAGE-A3; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MUC1; or hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and
NY-ESO-1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and CEA; or hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Survivin; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C1;
or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and CEA; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu;
or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin;
or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
NY-ESO-1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and
Survivin; or MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA,
Survivin and MAGE-C1; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C2; or NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; or hTERT,
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
NY-ESO-1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and CEA; or hTERT,
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
MAGE-C2; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
Survivin; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and CEA; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
Survivin; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1
and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and
Survivin; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1 ;
or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA,
Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
CEA; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin; or
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA and Survivin; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA
and MAGE-C1; or 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and
MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C2; or MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
NY-ESO-1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
CEA; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
Survivin; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
MAGE-C2; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1
and CEA; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1
and Survivin; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2;
or MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and
Survivin; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA and MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C1; or WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; or hTERT,
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA,
Survivin and MAGE-C1; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or WT1, MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; or hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2.
4. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA comprises a length of 250 to 20000
nucleotides.
5. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA is a mRNA.
6. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA is a monocistronic, bicistronic or
even multicistronic RNA.
7. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 5,
wherein the at least two antigens are each encoded by a
monocistronic RNA.
8. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 6,
wherein the at least two antigens are encoded by a mixture of
monocistronic, bicistronic and/or even multicistronic RNAs.
9. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA comprises a RNA selected from RNAs
encoding a fragment, a variant or an epitope of an antigen as
defined in claim 1.
10. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA comprises a RNA selected from RNAs
being identical or at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%,
or 80% identical to the RNA sequences according to SEQ ID NOs: 1,
3, 5, 7, 9, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 or 25.
11. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA is a modified RNA, in particular a
stabilized mRNA.
12. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 11,
wherein the G/C content of the coding region of the at least one
RNA is increased compared to the G/C content of the coding region
of the wild-type RNA, the coded amino acid sequence of the at least
one RNA preferably not being modified compared to the encoded amino
acid sequence of the wild-type RNA.
13. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 11,
wherein the A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding
site of the at least one RNA is increased compared with the A/U
content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of the
wild-type RNA.
14. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 11,
wherein the coding region and/or the 5' and/or 3' untranslated
region of the modified mRNA is modified compared to the wild-type
RNA such that it contains no destabilizing sequence elements, the
coded amino acid sequence of the modified mRNA preferably not being
modified compared to the wild-type RNA.
15. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 11,
wherein the modified mRNA has a 5' cap structure and/or a poly(A)
tail, preferably of 10 to 200 adenosine nucleotides, and/or a
poly(C) tail, preferably of 10 to 200 cytosine nucleotides, and/or
at least one IRES and/or at least one 5' and/or 3' stabilizing
sequence.
16. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA, preferably all mRNAs, comprises a RNA
selected from RNAs being identical or at least 80% identical to the
RNA sequences according to SEQ ID NOs: 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 11, 13, 15,
17, 19, 21, 23, 24 or 26.
17. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the at least one RNA is complexed with one or more
polycations, preferably with protamine or oligofectamine, most
preferably with protamine.
18. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1,
wherein the active composition additionally comprises at least one
adjuvant.
19. Active (immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 18,
wherein the at least one adjuvant is selected from the group
consisting of: cationic or polycationic compounds, comprising
cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, including protamine,
nucleoline, spermin or spermidine, poly-L-lysine (PLL),
poly-arginine, basic polypeptides, cell penetrating peptides
(CPPs), including HIV-binding peptides, Tat, HIV-1 Tat (HIV),
Tat-derived peptides, Penetratin, VP22 derived or analog peptides,
HSV VP22 (Herpes simplex), MAP, KALA or protein transduction
domains (PTDs, PpT620, prolin-rich peptides, arginine-rich
peptides, lysine-rich peptides, MPG-peptide(s), Pep-1, L-oligomers,
Calcitonin peptide(s), Antennapedia-derived peptides (particularly
from Drosophila antennapedia), pAntp, plsl, FGF, Lactoferrin,
Transportan, Buforin-2, Bac715-24, SynB, SynB(1), pVEC, hCT-derived
peptides, SAP, protamine, spermine, spermidine, or histones,
cationic polysaccharides, including chitosan, polybrene, cationic
polymers, including polyethyleneimine (PEI), cationic lipids,
including DOTMA:
[1-(2,3-sioleyloxy)propyl)]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium chloride,
DMRIE, di-C14-amidine, DOTIM, SAINT, DC-Chol, BGTC, CTAP, DOPC,
DODAP, DOPE: Dioleyl phosphatidylethanol-amine, DOSPA, DODAB, DOIC,
DMEPC, DOGS: Dioctadecylamidoglicylspermin, DIMRI:
Dimyristo-oxypropyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, DOTAP:
dioleoyloxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propane, DC-6-14:
O,O-ditetradecanoyl-N-(.alpha.-trimethylammonioacetyl)diethanolamine
chloride, CLIP1:
rac-[(2,3-dioctadecyloxypropyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)]-dimethylammonium
chloride, CLIP6:
rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxymethyloxy)ethyl]trimethylammonium,
CLIP9:
rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxysuccinyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylamm-
onium, oligofectamine, or cationic or polycationic polymers,
including modified polyaminoacids, including
.beta.-aminoacid-polymers or reversed polyamides, modified
polyethylenes, including PVP (poly(N-ethyl-4-vinylpyridinium
bromide)), modified acrylates, including pDMAEMA
(poly(dimethylaminoethyl methylacrylate)), modified Amidoamines
including pAMAM (poly(amidoamine)), modified polybetaaminoester
(PBAE), including diamine end modified 1,4 butanediol
diacrylate-co-5-amino-1-pentanol polymers, dendrimers, including
polypropylamine dendrimers or pAMAM based dendrimers, polyimine(s),
including PEI: poly(ethyleneimine), poly(propyleneimine),
polyallylamine, sugar backbone based polymers, including
cyclodextrin based polymers, dextran based polymers, Chitosan,
etc., silan backbone based polymers, such as PMOXA-PDMS copolymers,
etc., Blockpolymers consisting of a combination of one or more
cationic blocks selected of a cationic polymer as mentioned before,
and of one or more hydrophilic- or hydrophobic blocks (e.g
polyethyleneglycole); or cationic or polycationic proteins or
peptides, selected from following proteins or peptides having the
following total formula (I):
(Arg).sub.l;(Lys).sub.m;(His).sub.n;(Orn).sub.o;(Xaa).sub.x,
wherein l+m+n+o+x=8-15, and l, m, n or o independently of each
other may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,
10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, provided that the overall content of Arg,
Lys, His and Orn represents at least 50% of all amino acids of the
oligopeptide; and Xaa may be any amino acid selected from native
(=naturally occurring) or non-native amino acids except of Arg,
Lys, His or Orn; and x may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3
or 4, provided, that the overall content of Xaa does not exceed 50%
of all amino acids of the oligopeptide; or nucleic acids having the
formula (II): G.sub.lX.sub.mG.sub.n, wherein: G is guanosine,
uracil or an analogue of guanosine or uracil; X is guanosine,
uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of the
above-mentioned nucleotides; 1 is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein
when l=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when l>1 at
least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof;
in is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is uracil or
an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive uracils or
analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40, wherein
when n=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1 at
least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue thereof;
or nucleic acids having the formula (III): C.sub.lX.sub.mC.sub.n,
wherein: C is cytosine, uracil or an analogue of cytosine or
uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or
an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; 1 is an integer
from 1 to 40, wherein when l=1 C is cytosine or an analogue
thereof, when l>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine
or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein
when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3
successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer
from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 C is cytosine or an analogue
thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine
or an analogue thereof
20. Vaccine, comprising an active (immunostimulatory) composition
according to claim 1.
21. Vaccine according to claim 20, wherein the active
(immunostimulatory) composition elicits an adaptive immune
response.
22. Vaccine according to claim 20, wherein the vaccine further
comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
23. Vaccine according to claim 21, wherein the vaccine further
comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.
24. Use of an active (immunostimulatory) composition according to
claim 1 for preparing a vaccine for the treatment of lung cancer,
preferably of a non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) related
condition, more preferably of conditions related to the three main
sub-types of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) including squamous
cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell lung
carcinoma.
25. Kit, preferably kits of parts, comprising the active
(immunostimulatory) composition according to claim 1, and
optionally technical instructions with information on the
administration and dosage of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition and/or the vaccine.
Description
[0001] The present invention relates to an active
(immunostimulatory) composition comprising at least one RNA,
preferably a mRNA, encoding at least two (preferably different)
antigens capable of eliciting an (adaptive) immune response in a
mammal. The invention furthermore relates to a vaccine comprising
said active (immunostimulatory) composition, and to the use of said
active (immunostimulatory) composition (for the preparation of a
vaccine) and/or of the vaccine for eliciting an (adaptive) immune
response for the treatment of lung cancer, particularly of
non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), preferably selected from the
three main sub-types squamous cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma
and large cell lung carcinoma, or of disorders related thereto.
Finally, the invention relates to kits, particularly to kits of
parts, containing the active (immunostimulatory) composition and/or
the vaccine.
[0002] Of all malignant tumors 25% are bronchial carcinoma
(carcinoma of the lung). Worldwide, it is the most common cause of
cancer-related death in men and the second most common in women. In
Germany it is the third most abundant sort of carcinoma following
carcinoma of the prostata and the colorectal carcinoma. It is
responsible for 1.3 million deaths worldwide annually. In Central
Europe the incidence is approximately 60 per 100.000 inhabitants
and the number of newly people diagnosed with lung cancer is
steadily on the rise (in Germany currently being at approximately
50.000 per year). When diagnosed with lung cancer the average
overall fife-year survival rate is a mere 5 percent. Nevertheless,
the life expectancy of each single patient is wholly dependent on
the disease stage (TMN classification) and the subtype of carcinoma
(lung cancer) encountered (see below).
[0003] The main sub-types of lung cancer categorized by the size
and appearance of the malignant cells identified under microscope
are small cell lung cancer (20%) and non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC) (80%). This classification, although based on simple
histological criteria, has very important implications for clinical
management and prognosis of the disease, with small cell lung
cancer usually being treated by chemotherapy, while non-small cell
lung cancer is mostly subject to surgery as a first-line
treatment.
[0004] The non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC) are grouped together
because their prognosis and management are roughly identical. There
are three main sub-types: squamous cell lung carcinoma,
adenocarcinoma and large cell lung carcinoma. Surgery is the
mainstay of treatment; however, only a quarter of the patients
undergo successful resection, with a recurrence rate of 50%.
Therapeutic approaches in advanced disease involve--following
surgery--both adjuvant chemotherapy and/or adjuvant radiotherapy,
whereas chemotherapy as monotherapy (first-line therapy) seems to
be an approach associated with relatively poor results. In a
comparison of four commonly used combination chemotherapy regimens,
none was superior. Response rates varied from 15% to 22%, with
1-year survival rates of 31% to 36% (see e.g. O'Mahony, D., S.
Kummar, et al. (2005). "Non-small-cell lung cancer vaccine therapy:
a concise review." J Clin Oncol 23(35): 9022-8). Thus, even though
preoperative chemotherapy seems to have not resulted in a
prolongation of life expectancy, adjuvant chemotherapy--also if
combined with radiotherapy--did show a significant increase in life
expectancy.
[0005] One of the chemotherapeutic approaches used today are
combinations of platin-based substances with e.g. Gemcitabin even
as first-line-therapy, wheras e.g. Pemetrexed is used as
second-line therapy.
[0006] Another option used for the treatment of NSCLC is the
so-called "Targeted Therapy" trying to enhance success of classical
cytotoxic chemotherapy by influencing tumor specific target
structures on a molecular level. Substances used include
Bevacizumab (an angiogenesis inhibitor) or Erlotinib, which is
aimed at the tyrosine kinases of the epidermal growth factor
receptor (EGFR).
[0007] Even though doubtless there is some improvement in the
current therapeutic approaches treatment of lung cancer, especially
of NSCLC, is still an uphill-struggle with--given the high
mortality rates--a strong need for further, alternative or improved
ways of treatment.
[0008] Thus, it is suggested here to use the immune system in an
approach for the treatment of the NSCLC. The immune system plays an
important role in the treatment and prevention of numerous
diseases. According to the present stage of knowledge, various
mechanisms are provided by mammalians to protect the organism by
identifying and killing e.g. tumor cells. These tumor cells have to
be detected and distinguished from the organism's normal cells and
tissues.
[0009] The immune system of vertebrates such as humans consists of
many types of proteins, cells, organs, and tissues, which interact
in an elaborate and dynamic network. As part of this more complex
immune response, the vertebrate system adapts over time to
recognize particular pathogens or tumor cells more efficiently. The
adaptation process creates immunological memories and allows even
more effective protection during future encounters. This process of
adaptive or acquired immunity forms the basis for vaccination
strategies.
[0010] The adaptive immune system is antigen-specific and requires
the recognition of specific "self" or "non-self" antigens during a
process called antigen presentation. Antigen specificity allows for
the generation of responses that are tailored to specific pathogens
or pathogen-infected cells or tumor cells. The ability to mount
these tailored responses is maintained in the body by so called
"memory cells". Should a pathogen infect the body more than once,
these specific memory cells are used to quickly eliminate it. The
adaptive immune system thus allows for a stronger immune response
as well as for an immunological memory, where each pathogen or
tumor cell is "remembered" by one or more signature antigens.
[0011] The major components of the adaptive immune system in
vertebrates predominantly include lymphocytes on the cellular level
and antibodies on the molecular level.
[0012] Lymphocytes as cellular components of the adaptive immune
system include B cells and T cells which are derived from
hematopoietic stem cells in the bone marrow. B cells are involved
in the humoral response, whereas T cells are involved in cell
mediated immune response. Both B cells and T cells carry receptor
molecules that recognize specific targets. T cells recognize a
"non-self" target, such as a pathogenic target structure, only
after antigens (e.g. small fragments of a pathogen) have been
processed and presented in combination with a "self" receptor
called a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. In
contrast, the B cell antigen-specific receptor is an antibody
molecule on the B cell surface, and recognizes pathogens as such
when antibodies on its surface bind to a specific foreign antigen.
This antigen/antibody complex is taken up by the B cell and
processed by proteolysis into peptides. The B cell then displays
these antigenic peptides on its surface MHC class II molecules.
This combination of MHC and antigen attracts a matching helper T
cell, which releases lymphokines and activates the B cell. As the
activated B cell then begins to divide, its offspring secretes
millions of copies of the antibody that recognizes this antigen.
These antibodies circulate in blood plasma and lymph, bind to
pathogens or tumor cells expressing the antigen and mark them for
destruction by complement activation or for uptake and destruction
by phagocytes.
[0013] As a cellular component of the adaptive immune system
cytotoxic T cells (CD8.sup.+) may form a CTL-response. Cytotoxic T
cells (CD8.sup.+) can recognize peptides from endogenous pathogens
and self-antigens bound by MHC type I molecules. CD8.sup.+-T cells
carry out their killing function by releasing cytotoxic proteins in
the cell.
[0014] Mechanisms of the immune system form targets for curative
treatments. Appropriate methods are typically based on the
administration of adjuvants to elicit an innate immune response or
on the administration of antigens or immunogens in order to evoke
an adaptive immune response. As antigens are typically based on
specific components of pathogens (e.g. surface proteins) or
fragments thereof, administration of nucleic acids to the patient
which is followed by the expression of desired polypeptides,
proteins or antigens is envisaged as well.
[0015] Hitherto conventional methods for eliciting the immune
response, immunization or vaccination are based on the use of DNA
molecules in order to incorporate the required genetic information
into the cell. Various methods have been developed for introducing
DNA into cells, such as calcium phosphate transfection, polyprene
transfection, protoplast fusion, electroporation, microinjection
and lipofection, lipofection having in particular proven to be a
suitable method. DNA viruses may likewise be used as a DNA vehicle.
Because of their infectious properties, such viruses achieve a very
high transfection rate. The viruses used are genetically modified
in such a manner that no functional infectious particles are formed
in the transfected cell. Despite these precautions, however, it is
not possible to rule out the risk of uncontrolled propagation of
the introduced gene and viral genes, for example due to potential
recombination events. This also entails the risk of the DNA being
inserted into an intact gene of the host cell's genome by e.g.
recombination, with the consequence that this gene may be mutated
and thus completely or partially inactivated or may give rise to
misinformation. In other words, synthesis of a gene product which
is vital to the cell may be completely suppressed or alternatively
a modified or incorrect gene product is expressed. One particular
risk occurs if the DNA is integrated into a gene which is involved
in the regulation of cell growth. In this case, the host cell may
become degenerate and lead to cancer or tumor formation.
Furthermore, if the DNA introduced into the cell is to be
expressed, it is necessary for the corresponding DNA vehicle to
contain a strong promoter, such as the viral CMV promoter. The
integration of such promoters into the genome of the treated cell
may result in unwanted alterations of the regulation of gene
expression in the cell. Another risk of using DNA as an agent to
induce an immune response (e.g. as a vaccine) is the induction of
pathogenic anti-DNA antibodies in the patient into whom the foreign
DNA has been introduced, so bringing about a (possibly fatal)
immune response.
[0016] Thus overall, there is room and a need for an efficient
system, which may be used to effectively stimulate the immune
system to allow treatment of lung cancer, especially of non-small
cell lung cancer (NSCLC), while avoiding the problems of
uncontrolled propagation of an introduced gene due to DNA based
compositions.
[0017] It is thus an object of the present invention to provide a
composition, which a) allows treatment of lung cancer by
stimulating the immune system, while b) avoiding the above
mentioned disadvantages.
[0018] This object is solved by the subject matter of the present
invention, particularly by an active (immunostimulatory)
composition comprising at least one RNA, encoding at least two
(preferably different) antigens selected from the group comprising
the antigens: [0019] hTERT, [0020] WT1, [0021] MAGE-A2, [0022] 5T4,
[0023] MAGE-A3, [0024] MUC1, [0025] Her-2/neu, [0026] NY-ESO-1,
[0027] CEA, [0028] Survivin, [0029] MAGE-C1, and/or [0030]
MAGE-C2.
[0031] Surprisingly, it has been found that a specific combination
of at least two antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides
of the afore mentioned group, as contained in an active
(immunostimulatory) composition according to the present invention,
is capable to effectively stimulate the (adaptive) immune system to
allow treatment of lung cancer, especially of non-small cell lung
cancer (NSCLC). Herein, the terms antigens, antigenic proteins or
antigenic peptides may be used synomously. In the context of the
present invention, an active (immunostimulatory) composition
according to the present invention shall be further understood as a
composition, which is able to elicit an immune response, preferably
an adaptive immune response as defined herein, due to one of the
component(s) contained or encoded by the components of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition, preferably by the at least one
RNA, preferably (m)RNA, encoding the at least two (preferably
different) antigens.
[0032] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may encode hTERT. In the context of this invention
"hTERT" is human telomerase reverse transcriptase and the preferred
sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding "hTERT"--if
being used in the active (immunostimulatory) composition according
to the invention--is shown in FIG. 7 (SEQ ID NO: 7), and--even more
preferably, in FIG. 8 (SEQ ID NO: 8). Minev, Hipp et al. (2000)
described that telomerase is a ribonucleoprotein enzyme which has
been linked to malignant transformation in human cells (Minev, B.,
J. Hipp, et al. (2000). "Cytotoxic T cell immunity against
telomerase reverse transcriptase in humans." Proc Natl Acad Sci USA
97(9): 4796-801). Telomerase activity is increased in the vast
majority of human tumors, making its gene product the first
molecule common to all human tumors. The generation of endogenously
processed telomerase peptides bound to Class I MHC molecules could
therefore target cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) to tumors of
different origins. Thus, according to them this could advance
vaccine therapy against cancer provided that precursor CTL
recognizing telomerase peptides in normal adults and cancer
patients can be expanded through immunization. They further
demonstrated that the majority of normal individuals and patients
with prostate cancer immunized in vitro against two HLA-A2.1
restricted peptides from telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTRT)
developed hTRT-specific CTL. Carpenter and Vonderheide (2006)
(Carpenter, E. L. and R. H. Vonderheide (2006);
[0033] "Telomerase-based immunotherapy of cancer." Expert Opin Biol
Ther 6(10): 1031-9) reported that the progression from the cloning
of human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) in 1997 to the
first clinical trials of hTERT as an antitumor immunotherapy target
has been swift. hTERT is overexpressed in the vast majority of
human cancers whereas it has limited expression in normal adult
tissue. It plays a critical role in oncogenesis and may be
expressed by cancer stem cells. However, despite being a self
antigen, hTERT is immunogenic both in vitro and in vivo. Several
Phase I studies of hTERT immunotherapy have been completed in
patients with breast, prostate, lung and other cancers, and
clinical and immunological results are encouraging. Immunotherapy
induced functional, antitumor T cells in patients in the absence of
clinical toxicity. The opportunity for vaccinating individuals as
an immunoprevention strategy can also be envisioned for hTERT-based
therapies. Nair, S. K. and Heiser et al. (2000) described the
induction of anti-murine TERT immunity in mice vaccinated with
dendritic cells transduced with murine TERT RNA (see Nair, S. K.,
A. Heiser, et al. (2000). "Induction of cytotoxic T cell responses
and tumor immunity against unrelated tumors using telomerase
reverse transcriptase RNA transfected dendritic cells." Nat Med
6(9): 1011-7.). According to a preferred embodiment, the at least
one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus
encode an hTERT antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG.
7 (SEQ ID NO: 7), and--more preferably, in FIG. 8 (SEQ ID NO: 8).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an hTERT antigen selected from a fragment, a
variant or an epitope of an hTERT sequence as shown in FIG. 7 (SEQ
ID NO: 7), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 8 (SEQ ID NO:
8).
[0034] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode WT1. In the context of this
invention "WT1" is Wilms tumor 1 and the preferred sequence of the
RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding "WT1"--if being used in the
active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the
invention--is shown in FIG. 9 (SEQ ID NO: 9), more preferably in
FIG. 10 (SEQ ID NO: 10), and--even more preferably--in FIG. 11 (SEQ
ID NO: 11). Oka, Y. A. and Tsuboi et al. (2004) found that Wilm's
tumor protein is overexpressed in lung cancer (see Oka, Y., A.
Tsuboi, et al. (2004). "Induction of WT1 (Wilms' tumor
gene)-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes by WT1 peptide vaccine and
the resultant cancer regression." Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 101(38):
13885-90). Oka et al. (2004, supra) vaccinated 10 patients with
lung cancer with a peptide derived from WT1. They could show that
clinical response correlated with anti-tumor CD8+T cell activity.
The Wilms' tumor gene WT1 is overexpressed in leukemias and various
types of solid tumors, and the WT1 protein was demonstrated to be
an attractive target antigen for immunotherapy against these
malignancies. Oka et al. (2004, supra) reported the outcome of a
phase I clinical study of WT1 peptide-based immunotherapy for
patients with breast or lung cancer, myelodysplastic syndrome, or
acute myeloid leukemia. Twelve of the 20 patients for whom the
efficacy of WT1 vaccination could be assessed showed clinical
responses such as reduction in leukemic blast cells or tumor sizes
and/or tumor markers. A clear correlation was observed between an
increase in the frequencies of WT1-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes
after WT1 vaccination and clinical responses. It was therefore
demonstrated that WT1 vaccination could induce WT1-specific
cytotoxic T lymphocytes and resulted in cancer regression without
damage to normal tissues. According to a preferred embodiment, the
at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may
thus encode an WT1 antigen selected from the sequence as shown in
FIG. 9 (SEQ ID NO: 9), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 10
(SEQ ID NO: 10) and even more preferably as shown in FIG. 11 (SEQ
ID NO: 11). According to a further preferred embodiment, the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may
alternatively or additionally encode an WT1 antigen selected from a
fragment, a variant or an epitope of an WT1 sequence as shown in
FIG. 9 (SEQ ID NO: 9), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 10
(SEQ ID NO: 10) and even more preferably as shown in FIG. 11 (SEQ
ID NO: 11).
[0035] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode MAGE-A2. In the context of this
invention "MAGE-A2" is the melanoma antigen family A, 2B and the
preferred sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding
"MAGE-A2"--if being used in the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention--is shown in FIG. 14 (SEQ ID
NO: 14), and--even more preferably--in FIG. 15 (SEQ ID NO: 15).
Gillespie and Coleman (1999) (Gillespie, A. M. and R. E. Coleman
(1999). "The potential of melanoma antigen expression in cancer
therapy." Cancer Treat Rev 25(4): 219-27) reported expression in
bladder cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer,
head and neck cancer, lung cancer, maxillary cancer, melanoma,
oesophagus cancer, osteosarcoma and ovary cancer. According to a
preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an MAGE-A2 antigen
selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 14 (SEQ ID NO: 14),
and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 15 (SEQ ID NO: 15).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an MAGE-A2 antigen selected from a fragment, a
variant or an epitope of an MAGE-A2 sequence as shown in FIG. 14
(SEQ ID NO: 14), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 15 (SEQ ID
NO: 15).
[0036] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode 5T4. In the context of this
invention "5T4" is trophoblast glycoprotein and the preferred
sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding "5T4"--if
being used in the active (immunostimulatory) composition according
to the invention--is shown in FIG. 3 (SEQ ID NO: 3), and--even more
preferably--in FIG. 4 (SEQ ID NO: 4). Harrop, Connolly et al.
(2006) reported that the human oncofetal antigen 5T4 is a 72-kDa
leucine-rich membrane glycoprotein which is expressed at high
levels on the placenta and also on a wide range of human carcinomas
including colorectal, gastric, renal, and ovarian cancers but
rarely on normal tissues (see Harrop, R., N. Connolly, et al.
(2006). "Vaccination of colorectal cancer patients with modified
Vaccinia Ankara delivering the tumor antigen 5T4 (TroVax) induces
immune responses which correlate with disease control: a phase I/II
trial." Clin Cancer Res 12(11 Pt 1): 3416-24). Overexpression of
5T4 is associated with poor prognosis in patients with colorectal,
gastric, and ovarian carcinoma. Despite such compounding factors,
5T4-specific cellular and/or humoral immune responses were induced
in the majority of patients (16 of 17; 94%) following TroVax
immunization, which was considered encouraging compared with many
other cancer immunotherapy trials. In summary, they showed safety
and immunogenicity of TroVax delivered via i.m. and i.d. routes of
administration. Zhao and Wang (2007) (Zhao, Y. and Y. Wang (2007).
"5T4 oncotrophoblast glycoprotein: janus molecule in life and a
novel potential target against tumors." Cell Mol Immunol 4(2):
99-104) reported that 5T4 oncotrophoblast glycoprotein is a
transmembrane protein expressed on the embryonic tissue and various
malignant tumor cell surfaces. It plays a vital role in the
multiple biological and pathological processes including massive
cellular migration during the embryogenesis, cell invasion
associated with implantation, and neoplastic metastasis in the
progression of tumorigenesis. According to Kopreski, Benko et al.
(2001) 5T4 is a trophoblast glycoprotein frequently overexpressed
in epithelial malignancies that provides a potential target for
cancer therapeutics (see Kopreski, M. S., F. A. Benko, et al.
(2001). "Circulating RNA as a tumor marker: detection of 5T4 mRNA
in breast and lung cancer patient serum." Ann N Y Acad Sci 945:
172-8). Serum was collected from 19 patients with advanced breast
cancer (5 patients) or non-small-cell lung cancer (14 patients),
and from 25 normal control volunteers having amplifiable RNA. RNA
extracted from the serum was RT-PCR amplified using heminested,
two-stage reactions, with products detected by gel electrophoresis.
5T4 mRNA was reproducibly detected in 8/19 (42%) cancer patient
sera, including 2/5 breast cancer patient sera and 6/14 lung cancer
patient sera, but in only 3/25 (12%) normal control sera (p=0.035).
According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an 5T4
antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 3 (SEQ ID NO:
3), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 4 (SEQ ID NO: 4).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an 5T4 antigen selected from a fragment, a
variant or an epitope of an 5T4 sequence as shown in FIG. 3 (SEQ ID
NO: 3), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 4 (SEQ ID NO:
4).
[0037] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode MAGE-A3. In the context of this
invention "MAGE-A3" is the melanoma antigen family A, 3 and the
preferred sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding
"MAGE-A3"--if being used in the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention--is shown in FIG. 16 (SEQ ID
NO: 16), and--even more preferably--in FIG. 17 (SEQ ID NO: 17).
Gillespie and Coleman (1999) (Gillespie, A. M. and R. E. Coleman
(1999). "The potential of melanoma antigen expression in cancer
therapy." Cancer Treat Rev 25(4): 219-27) reported expression in
bladder cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, gastric cancer,
glioma, head and neck cancer, lung, maxillary cancer, melanoma,
neuroblastoma, oesophagus cancer and ovary cancer. Sienel, Varwark
et al. (2004) described a study performed to determine the rate of
MAGE-A3 expression in early-stage non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC) (see Sienel, W., C. Varwerk, et al. (2004). "Melanoma
associated antigen (MAGE)-A3 expression in Stages I and II
non-small cell lung cancer: results of a multi-center study." Eur J
Cardiothorac Surg 25(1): 131-4). Primary tumor samples from 204
patients with operable clinical stages I or II NSCLC were collected
and the pathological stage determined. MAGE-A3 expression was
analyzed from tissue samples by detection of MAGE-A3 transcripts
using reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction. MAGE-A3
expression was observed in 80 out of the 204 (39.2%) examined
stages I-II primary tumors. Atanackovic, Altorki et al. (2004)
described that MAGE-A3 a tumor-associated antigen originally
identified in melanoma, was also found in non-small cell lung
tumors (see Atanackovic, D., N. K. Altorki, et al. (2004).
"Vaccine-induced CD4+ T cell responses to MAGE-3 protein in lung
cancer patients." J Immunol 172(5): 3289-96). In a clinical trial
nine NSCLC patients were vaccinated with the protein; 3 developed
antibody responses. Seven of 8 patients who received MAGE-A3
combined with adjuvant ASO2B generated antibodies against MAGE-A3.
Several of these patients also developed T cell responses to the
protein. According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an
MAGE-A3 antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 16 (SEQ
ID NO: 16), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 17 (SEQ ID NO:
17). According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one
RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively
or additionally encode an MAGE-A3 antigen selected from a fragment,
a variant or an epitope of an MAGE-A3 sequence as shown in FIG. 16
(SEQ ID NO: 16), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 17 (SEQ ID
NO: 17).
[0038] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode MUC1. In the context of this
invention "MUC1" is mucin 1 and the preferred sequence of the RNA,
preferably of the mRNA, encoding "MUC1"--if being used in the
active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the
invention--is shown in FIG. 1 (SEQ ID NO: 1), and--even more
preferably--in FIG. 2 (SEQ ID NO: 2). Cancer-associated mucins are
a potential target for immunotherapy. These molecules are thought
to promote metastases by facilitating adhesion of malignant cells
to the endothelial cell surface. According to Denda-Nagai and
Irimura (2000) (Denda-Nagai, K. and T. Irimura (2000). "MUC1 in
carcinoma-host interactions." Glycoconj J 17(7-9): 649-58) MUC-1 is
overexpressed in 90% of all adenocarcinomas, including breast,
lung, pancreas, prostate, stomach, colon and ovary. Kontani,
Taguchi et al. (2001) found that MUC-1 has been found to be
expressed in 60% of lung cancers (see Kontani, K., O. Taguchi, et
al. (2001). "Modulation of MUC1 mucin as an escape mechanism of
breast cancer cells from autologous cytotoxic T-lymphocytes." Br J
Cancer 84(9): 1258-64), whereas Kontani, Taguchi et al. (2003)
found in a study analyzing the use of pulsed DCs with MUC1 antigens
to elicit cellular immunity in MUC1 positive cancers, that
clinically seven of nine MUC-1 positive patients responded to the
treatment with either a reduction in tumor marker levels or
disappearance of malignant pleural effusion (see Kontani, K., O.
Taguchi, et al. (2003). "Dendritic cell vaccine immunotherapy of
cancer targeting MUC1 mucin." Int J Mol Med 12(4): 493-502). Three
of these responding patients had NSCLC. Palmer, Parker et al.
(2001) reported that in a phase I clinical trial using MUC1 peptide
in stage III/IV NSCLC, safety and tolerability of this agent was
established (see Palmer, M., J. Parker, et al. (2001). "Phase I
study of the BLP25 (MUC1 peptide) liposomal vaccine for active
specific immunotherapy in stage IIIB/IV non-small-cell lung
cancer." Clin Lung Cancer 3(1): 49-57; discussion 58). Five of 12
patients (42%) had immunologic responses, and 4 of 12 patients
(33%) achieved stable disease. Wierecky, Mueller et al. (2006)
further identified two HLA-A2 binding novel 9-mer peptides of the
TAA MUC1, which is overexpressed on various hematological and
epithelial malignancies (see Wierecky, J., M. Mueller, et al.
(2006). "Dendritic cell-based cancer immunotherapy targeting
MUC-1." Cancer Immunol Immunother 55(1): 63-7). Cytotoxic T cells
generated after pulsing DC with these peptides were able to induce
lysis of tumor cells expressing MUC1 in an antigen-specific and
HLA-restricted fashion. Within two clinical studies, it was
demonstrated that vaccination of patients with advanced cancer
using DCs pulsed with MUC1 derived peptides was well tolerated
without serious side effects and was able to induce immunological
responses. Of 20 patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma, 6
patients showed regression of metastases with 3 objective responses
(1 CR, 2 PR). According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one
RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode
an MUC1 antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 1 (SEQ
ID NO: 1), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 2 (SEQ ID NO: 2).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an MUC1 antigen selected from a fragment, a
variant or an epitope of an MUC1 sequence as shown in FIG. 1 (SEQ
ID NO: 1), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 2 (SEQ ID NO:
2).
[0039] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode Her-2/neu. In the context of
this invention "Her-2/neu" is v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia
viral oncogene homolog 2 and the preferred sequence of the RNA,
preferably of the mRNA, encoding "Her-2/neu"--if being used in the
active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the
invention--is shown in FIG. 5 (SEQ ID NO: 5), and--even more
preferably--in FIG. 6 (SEQ ID NO: 6). According to Baxevanis,
Sotiropolou et al. (2004) HER-2/neu (also known as HER2 or
c-erb-B2) is a 185-kDa protein receptor with tyrosine kinase
activity and extensive homology to the epidermal growth factor
(EGF) receptor (see Baxevanis, C. N., P. A. Sotiropoulou, et al.
(2004). "Immunobiology of HER-2/neu oncoprotein and its potential
application in cancer immunotherapy." Cancer Immunol Immunother
53(3): 166-75). HER-2/neu is expressed in many epithelial tumors
and known to be overexpressed in approximately 20-25% of all
ovarian and breast cancers, 35-45% of all pancreatic
adenocarcinomas, and up to 90% of colorectal carcinomas. HER-2/neu
overexpression represents a marker of poor prognosis.
Overexpression of Her-2 has been observed in malignant tumors of
the breast, ovary, pancreas, colon, lung and other tissues. Her-2
is normally expressed at low levels in variety of human tissues
(skin, digestive tract epithelium, breast, ovary, hepatocytes).
Bernhard, Salazar (2002) report in their conclusion that early
results of clinical trials actively immunizing cancer patients
against HER-2/neu demonstrated that immunity could be generated and
that immune responses persisted over a period of time (see
Bernhard, H., Salazar L., et al. (2002). "Vaccination against the
HER-2/neu oncogenic protein." Endocr Relat Cancer 9(1): 33-44).
Current vaccine trials were focused solely on the use of epitope-
or peptide-based vaccines, largely due to the observation that
peptide vaccine strategies could circumvent neu-specific tolerance
in rodent models. The next generation of vaccine approaches
according to Bernhard et al. (2002, supra) will likely include
protein-based vaccines, HER-2/neu antigen preparations loaded onto
DC, and nucleic acid based formulations. Studies in rodent models
exploring these strategies at a pre-clinical level were promising.
Expansion of HER-2/neu-specific T-cell ex vivo following active
immunization or in vitro culture with HER-2/neu-expressing DC was
thus considered as being a therapeutic option for treating advanced
stage HER-2/neu-overexpressing tumors. Baxevanis, Sotiridou et al.
(2006) found that in humans, although immunological responses have
been detected against the peptides used for vaccination no clinical
responses have been described (see Baxevanis, C. N., N. N.
Sotiriadou, et al. (2006). "Immunogenic HER-2/neu peptides as tumor
vaccines." Cancer Immunol Immunother 55(1): 85-95). According to
Disis, Gooley et al. (2002) Her-2/neu is a member of the EGFR
family (see Disis, M. L., T. A. Gooley, et al. (2002). "Generation
of T-cell immunity to the HER-2/neu protein after active
immunization with HER-2/neu peptide-based vaccines." J Clin Oncol
20(11): 2624-32). It is frequently overexpressed in breast, ovary,
prostate, colon and lung cancers. In a phase I clinical trial 38
patients (2 with NSCLC) were vaccinated with a Her-2/neu peptide.
92% of the patients developed T-cell immunity to Her-2/neu.
According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an Her-2/neu
antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 5 (SEQ ID NO:
5), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 6 (SEQ ID NO: 6).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an Her-2/neu antigen selected from a fragment,
a variant or an epitope of an Her-2/neu sequence as shown in FIG. 5
(SEQ ID NO: 5), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 6 (SEQ ID
NO: 6).
[0040] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode NY-ESO-1. In the context of this
invention "NY-ESO-1" is cancer/testis antigen 1B and the preferred
sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding
"NY-ESO-1"--if being used in the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention--is shown in FIG. 20 (SEQ ID
NO: 20), and--even more preferably--in FIG. 21 (SEQ ID NO: 21).
Chen, Scanlan et al. (1997) reported the mRNA expression of
NY-ESO-1 in various human tumors by RT-PCR finding Melanoma 23/67,
Ovarian cancer 2/8, Breast cancer 10/33, Thyroid cancer 2/5,
Prostate cancer 4/16, Bladder cancer 4/5, Colon cancer 0/16,
Burkitt lymphoma 1/2, Glioma 0/15, Basal cell carcinoma 0/2,
Gastric cancer 0/12, Leiomyosarcoma 0/2, Lung cancer 2/12, Other
sarcomas 0/2, Renal cancer 0/10, Pancreatic cancer 0/2, Lymphoma
0/10, Seminoma 0/1, Hepatoma 2/7, Spinal cord tumor 0/1 (see Chen,
Y. T., M. J. Scanlan, et al. (1997). "A testicular antigen
aberrantly expressed in human cancers detected by autologous
antibody screening." Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 94(5): 1914-8). Jager,
Karbach et al. (2006) reported that NY-ESO-1 is a cancer/testis
antigen expressed in a range of human malignancies, and that a
number of vaccine strategies targeting NY-ESO-1 were being
developed (see Jager, E., J. Karbach, et al. (2006). "Recombinant
vaccinia/fowlpox NY-ESO-1 vaccines induce both humoral and cellular
NY-ESO-1-specific immune responses in cancer patients." Proc Natl
Acad Sci USA 103(39): 14453-8). In the presented study, the safety
and immunogenicity of recombinant vaccinia-NY-ESO-1 and recombinant
fowlpox-NY-ESO-1 were analyzed in a series of 36 patients with a
range of different tumor types. Each construct was first tested
individually at two different dose levels and then in a prime-boost
setting with recombinant vaccinia-NY-ESO-1 followed by recombinant
fowlpox-NY-ESO-1. The vaccines were well tolerated either
individually or together. NY-ESO-1-specific antibody responses
and/or specific CD8 and CD4 T cell responses directed against a
broad range of NY-ESO-1 epitopes were induced by a course of at
least four vaccinations at monthly intervals in a high proportion
of patients. CD8 T cell clones derived from five vaccinated
patients were shown to lyse NY-ESO-1-expressing melanoma target
cells. In several patients with melanoma, there was a strong
impression that the natural course of the disease was favorably
influenced by vaccination. Davis, Chen et al. (2004) reported that
HLA-A2-restricted NY-ESO-1 peptides injected intradermally were
shown to be safe and immunogenic (Davis, I. D., W. Chen, et al.
(2004). "Recombinant NY-ESO-1 protein with ISCOMATRIX adjuvant
induces broad integrated antibody and CD4(+) and CD8(+) T cell
responses in humans." Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 101(29): 10697-702).
Although these trials were designed only to determine safety and
immunogenicity, some patients showed tumor regression or
stabilization of disease. It was further expressed by Jager,
Gnjatic et al. (2000) that a broad NY-ESO-1-specific immune
response including antibody and CD4 and CD8 T cell responses was
seen after immunization with recombinant NY-ESO-1 protein combined
with ISCOMATRIX adjuvant (CSL Ltd., Parkville, Victoria, Australia)
in patients with resected NY-ESO-1-expressing melanoma (see Jager,
E., S. Gnjatic, et al. (2000). "Induction of primary NY-ESO-1
immunity: CD8+ T lymphocyte and antibody responses in
peptide-vaccinated patients with NY-ESO-1+ cancers." Proc Natl Acad
Sci USA 97(22): 12198-203). This immune response to the vaccine
appeared to be associated with long disease-free survival.
Furthermore Odunsi, Qian et al. (2007) reported that vaccination
with an NY-ESO-1 peptide induces integrated humoral and T cell
responses in ovarian cancer (see Odunsi, K., F. Qian, et al.
(2007). "Vaccination with an NY-ESO-1 peptide of HLA class I/II
specificities induces integrated humoral and T cell responses in
ovarian cancer." Proc Natl Acad Sci USA 104(31): 12837-42).
According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an NY-ESO-1
antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 20 (SEQ ID NO:
20), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 21 (SEQ ID NO: 21).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an NY-ESO-1 antigen selected from a fragment, a
variant or an epitope of an NY-ESO-1 sequence as shown in FIG. 20
(SEQ ID NO: 20), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 21 (SEQ ID
NO: 21).
[0041] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode CEA. In the context of this
invention "CEA" is carcinoembryonic antigen (CECAM5
=carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecule 5) and the
preferred sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding
"CEA"--if being used in the active (immunostimulatory) composition
according to the invention--is shown in FIG. 12 (SEQ ID NO: 12),
and--even more preferably--in FIG. 13 (SEQ ID NO: 13). According to
Hammarstrom (1999) CEA is a 180 kDa onco-fetal glycoprotein that
acts as an adhesion molecule, and is overexpressed in 70% of NSCLC
(Hammarstrom, S. (1999). "The carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA)
family: structures, suggested functions and expression in normal
and malignant tissues." Semin Cancer Biol 9(2): 67-81). Berinstein
(2002) reported that CEA has many attractive features as a target
for active vaccination approaches against cancer (Berinstein, N. L.
(2002). "Carcinoembryonic antigen as a target for therapeutic
anticancer vaccines: a review." J Clin Oncol 20(8): 2197-207). It
has a favorable expression pattern and is expressed in more than
50% of all human cancers. It may play a role in the tumorigenesis
process itself, and thus its expression may be selected and
conserved throughout cancer progression. It has been well
documented that CEA is processed and presented on various MHC class
1 molecules. Moreover, immunologic tolerance to CEA is not
absolute. There are extensive data demonstrating that human T cells
can recognize, become activated to, and lyse cancer cells that are
expressing CEA. Several different therapeutic vaccination
approaches using CEA as a target antigen have been assessed. The
safety of these approaches has been established. In addition,
humoral and/or cellular responses to CEA have been documented.
Although for the most part the patients chosen for these studies
presented by Berinstein (2002, supra) had very advanced and
refractory metastatic colon cancer, some evidence of clinical
activity has been documented, with disease stabilization and even
objective responses occurring in some patients. Dendritic cells
pulsed with an agonist CEA MHC class I binding peptide (CAP1-6D)
and poxvirus-based vectors incorporating CEA, with or without
costimulatory molecules, seemed most active in activating CD8
T-cell responses. Unfortunately, dendritic cell approaches may be
limited by the logistical difficulty of obtaining patient-specific
preparations of dendritic cells. Four phase I studies using the
canarypox vector system to target CEA were reported. These trials
showed that such approaches were safe, with mild grade 1 and grade
2 toxicities limited primarily to the site of injection. Moreover,
the trials showed that specific cellular T-cell responses can be
activated to CEA in the majority of patients. These responses may
be enhanced by the inclusion of the B7.1 costimulatory molecule in
the vector or by the addition of recombinant GM-CSF at the
injection site. Although no objective clinical responses were
reported, a significant proportion of patients in these phase I
studies have experienced disease stabilization. Vaccination
strategies to further enhance the frequency of T cells recognizing
CEA where considered to further augment the clinical activity of
these vaccines. There are data that suggest that at least some
vaccines may be more effective in minimal disease states. Ueda,
Itoh et al (2004) described one study, in which 18 patients with
metastatic gastrointestinal or lung cancer were treated with
autologous dendritic cells pulsed with CEA-derived peptide (see
Ueda, Y., T. Itoh, et al. (2004). "Dendritic cell-based
immunotherapy of cancer with carcinoembryonic antigen-derived,
HLA-A24-restricted CTL epitope: Clinical outcomes of 18 patients
with metastatic gastrointestinal or lung adenocarcinomas." Int)
Oncol 24(4): 909-17). Immune reactions measured by skin testing and
in vitro T cell assays were observed in most of the patients.
Although no objective clinical responses were reported, some
patients had stable disease while receiving this immunotherapy.
According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an CEA
antigen selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 12 (SEQ ID NO:
12), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 13 (SEQ ID NO: 13).
According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or
additionally encode an CEA antigen selected from a fragment, a
variant or an epitope of an CEA sequence as shown in FIG. 12 (SEQ
ID NO: 12), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 13 (SEQ ID NO:
13).
[0042] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode Survivin. In the context of this
invention "Survivin" is baculoviral IAP repeat-containing 5
(survivin) and the preferred sequence of the RNA, preferably of the
mRNA, encoding "survivin"--if being used in the active
(immunostimulatory) composition according to the invention--is
shown in FIG. 18 (SEQ ID NO: 18), and--even more preferably--in
FIG. 19 (SEQ ID NO: 19). Grube, Moritz et al. (2007) described
Survivin (see Grube, M., S. Moritz, et al. (2007). "CD8+T cells
reactive to survivin antigen in patients with multiple myeloma."
Clin Cancer Res 13(3): 1053-60). Survivin is a member of the
inhibitors of apoptosis family and is overexpressed in different
types of malignancies. Cytotoxic T cells recognizing survivin
epitopes can be elicited in vitro and by vaccination in patients
with leukemia, breast cancer, and melanoma. It was investigated
whether survivin-specific CD8+ T cells occur in patients with
multiple myeloma and T cells recognizing HLA-A2.1-binding survivin
peptide were detected in 9 of 23 patients and in 1 of 21 healthy
volunteers. Survivin-reactive T cells were identified as terminally
differentiated effector T cells (CD8+, CD45RA+, and CCR7-).
Positive survivin expression of myeloma cells in bone marrow
specimens was shown in 7 of 11 patients. Survivin is highly
expressed in most human cancer cells of epithelial and
hematopoietic origin, and overexpression is associated with cancer
progression, poor prognosis, resistance, and short patient
survival. Duffy, O'Donovan (2007) described that Survivin is a 16.5
kDa protein overexpressed in almost all malignancies but rarely
detected in normal differentiated adult tissues (see Duffy, M. J.,
N. O'Donovan, et al. (2007). "Survivin: a promising tumor
biomarker." Cancer Lett 249(1): 49-60). Functionally, survivin has
been shown to inhibit apoptosis, promote cell proliferation and
enhance angiogenesis. Consistent with its role in these processes,
survivin was described as playing a key role in cancer progression.
Because of the large difference in expression between normal and
malignant tissue and its causal role in cancer progression,
survivin is currently undergoing intensive investigation as a
potential tumor marker. Emerging data suggests that measurement of
survivin can aid the early diagnosis of bladder cancer, determine
prognosis in multiple cancer types and predict response to diverse
anti-cancer therapies. Zeis, Siegel et al. (2003) demonstrated that
human survivin-specific CTLs generated from PBMC by stimulation
with autologous dendritic cells transfected with survivin-RNA were
cytotoxic for a range of hemopoietic malignant cell lines and
primary tumor cells isolated from patients with acute myeloid
leukemia (see Zeis, M., S. Siegel, et al. (2003). "Generation of
cytotoxic responses in mice and human individuals against
hematological malignancies using survivin-RNA-transfected dendritic
cells." J Immunol 170(11): 5391-7). It was also shown that
vaccination of mice with survivin-RNA-transfected dendritic cells
lead to long term resistance to challenge by a survivin-expressing
lymphoma, demonstrating the potential of survivin as a tumor
rejection Ag. Evidence for the use of survivin as a target
structure for immunotherapeutic strategies against hematological
neoplasms was provided. According to a preferred embodiment, the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may
thus encode an Survivin antigen selected from the sequence as shown
in FIG. 18 (SEQ ID NO: 18), and--more preferably, as shown in FIG.
19 (SEQ ID NO: 19). According to a further preferred embodiment,
the at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition
may alternatively or additionally encode an Survivin antigen
selected from a fragment, a variant or an epitope of an Survivin
sequence as shown in FIG. 18 (SEQ ID NO: 18), and--more preferably,
as shown in FIG. 19 (SEQ ID NO: 19).
[0043] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode MAGE-C1. In the context of this
invention "MAGE-C1" is the melanoma antigen family C, 1 and the
preferred sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding
"MAGE-C1"--if being used in the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention--is shown in FIG. 22 (SEQ ID
NO: 22), more preferably in FIG. 23 (SEQ ID NO: 23), and--even more
preferably--in FIG. 24 (SEQ ID NO: 24). Lucas, De Smet et al.
(1998) recently identified MAGE-C1 by performing RDA (see Lucas,
S., C. De Smet, et al. (1998). "Identification of a new MAGE gene
with tumor-specific expression by representational difference
analysis." Cancer Res 58(4): 743-52). MAGE-C1 was not expressed in
a panel of normal tissues tested with the exception of testis.
Among tumoral samples, MAGE-C1 was frequently expressed in
seminomas, melanomas, and bladder carcinomas. It was also expressed
in a significant fraction of head and neck carcinomas, breast
carcinomas, non-small lung carcinomas, prostate adenocarcinomas and
sarcomas. Jungbluth, Chen et al. (2002) described expression in
breast cancer, ovary cancer, liver cancer, testis cancer, bladder
cancer, melanoma and non-small cell lung cancer (39%) (see
Jungbluth, A. A., Y. T. Chen, et al. (2002). "CT7 (MAGE-C1) antigen
expression in normal and neoplastic tissues." Int J Cancer 99(6):
839-45). Gure, Chua et al. (2005) analyzed tumors from 523
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients for the expression of
cancer-testis antigens (see Gure, A. O., R. Chua, et al. (2005).
"Cancer-testis genes are coordinately expressed and are markers of
poor outcome in non-small cell lung cancer." Clin Cancer Res
11(22): 8055-62). MAGE-C1 was present in 18.8%. Scanlan, Altorki et
al. (2000) furthermore reported expression of CT antigens in 33
non-small cell lung cancers: MAGE-C1: 30% (see Scanlan, M. J., N.
K. Altorki, et al. (2000). "Expression of cancer-testis antigens in
lung cancer: definition of bromodomain testis-specific gene (BRDT)
as a new CT gene, CT9." Cancer Lett 150(2): 155-64). According to a
preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition may thus encode an MAGE-C1 antigen
selected from the sequence as shown in FIG. 22 (SEQ ID NO: 22),
and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 23 (SEQ ID NO: 23) and even
more preferably as shown in FIG. 24 (SEQ ID NO: 24). According to a
further preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or additionally
encode an MAGE-C1 antigen selected from a fragment, a variant or an
epitope of an MAGE-C1 sequence as shown in FIG. 22 (SEQ ID NO: 22),
and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 23 (SEQ ID NO: 23) and even
more preferably as shown in FIG. 24 (SEQ ID NO: 24).
[0044] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may furthermore encode MAGE-C2. In the context of this
invention "MAGE-C2" is the melanoma antigen family C2 and the
preferred sequence of the RNA, preferably of the mRNA, encoding
"MAGE-C2"--if being used in the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention--is shown in FIG. 25 (SEQ ID
NO: 25), and--even more preferably--in FIG. 26 (SEQ ID NO: 26).
Lucas, De Plaen et al. (2000) recently identified MAGE-C2 by
performing RDA on a melanoma cell line (see Lucas, S., E. De Plaen,
et al. (2000). "MAGE-B5, MAGE-B6, MAGE-C2, and MAGE-C3: four new
members of the MAGE family with tumor-specific expression." Int J
Cancer 87(1): 55-60). MAGE-C2 was not expressed in a panel of
normal tissues tested with the exception of testis. Among tumoral
samples, MAGE-C2 was frequently expressed in seminomas, melanomas,
and bladder carcinomas. It was also expressed in a significant
fraction of head and neck carcinomas, breast carcinomas, non-small
lung carcinomas and sarcomas. Scanlan, Altorki et al. (2000)
reported expression of CT antigens in 33 non-small cell lung
cancers: MAGE-C2: 30% (see Scanlan, M. J., N. K. Altorki, et al.
(2000). "Expression of cancer-testis antigens in lung cancer:
definition of bromodomain testis-specific gene (BRDT) as a new CT
gene, CT9." Cancer Lett 150(2): 155-64). According to a preferred
embodiment, the at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition may thus encode an MAGE-C2 antigen selected from the
sequence as shown in FIG. 25 (SEQ ID NO: 25), and--more preferably,
as shown in FIG. 26 (SEQ ID NO: 26). According to a further
preferred embodiment, the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition may alternatively or additionally
encode an MAGE-C2 antigen selected from a fragment, a variant or an
epitope of an MAGE-C2 sequence as shown in FIG. 25 (SEQ ID NO: 25),
and--more preferably, as shown in FIG. 26 (SEQ ID NO: 26).
[0045] Antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides as
defined above which may be encoded by the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the present
invention, may comprise fragments or variants of those sequences.
Such fragments or variants may typically comprise a sequence having
a sequence homology with one of the above mentioned antigens,
antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides or sequences or their
encoding nucleic acid sequences of at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%,
50%, 60%, preferably at least 70%, more preferably at least 80%,
equally more preferably at least 85%, even more preferably at least
90% and most preferably at least 95% or even 97%, to the entire
wild-type sequence, either on nucleic acid level or on amino acid
level.
[0046] "Fragments" of antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic
peptides in the context of the present invention may comprise a
sequence of an antigen, antigenic protein or antigenic peptide as
defined above, which is, with regard to its amino acid sequence (or
its encoded nucleic acid sequence), N-terminally, C-terminally
and/or intrasequentially truncated compared to the amino acid
sequence of the original (native) protein (or its encoded nucleic
acid sequence). Such truncation may thus occur either on the amino
acid level or correspondingly on the nucleic acid level. A sequence
homology with respect to such a fragment as defined above may
therefore preferably refer to the entire antigen, antigenic protein
or antigenic peptide as defined above or to the entire (coding)
nucleic acid sequence of such an antigen, antigenic protein or
antigenic peptide.
[0047] Fragments of antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic
peptides in the context of the present invention may furthermore
comprise a sequence of an antigen, antigenic protein or antigenic
peptide as defined above, which has a length of about 6 to about 20
or even more amino acids, e.g. fragments as processed and presented
by MHC class I molecules, preferably having a length of about 8 to
about 10 amino acids, e.g. 8, 9, or 10, (or even 6, 7, 11, or 12
amino acids), or fragments as processed and presented by MHC class
II molecules, preferably having a length of about 13 or more amino
acids, e.g. 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 or even more amino
acids, wherein these fragments may be selected from any part of the
amino acid sequence. These fragments are typically recognized by
T-cells in form of a complex consisting of the peptide fragment and
an MHC molecule, i.e. the fragments are typically not recognized in
their native form.
[0048] Fragments of antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic
peptides as defined herein may also comprise epitopes of those
antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides. Epitopes (also
called "antigen determinants") in the context of the present
invention are typically fragments located on the outer surface of
(native) antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides as
defined herein, preferably having 5 to 15 amino acids, more
preferably having 5 to 12 amino acids, even more preferably having
6 to 9 amino acids, which may be recognized by antibodies or B-cell
receptors, i.e. in their native form. Such epitopes of antigens,
antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides may furthermore be
selected from any of the herein mentioned variants of such
antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides. In this context
antigenic determinants can be conformational or discontinous
epitopes which are composed of segments of the antigens, antigenic
proteins or antigenic peptides as defined herein that are
discontinuous in the amino acid sequence of the antigens, antigenic
proteins or antigenic peptides as defined herein but are brought
together in the three-dimensional structure or continuous or linear
epitopes which are composed of a single polypeptide chain.
[0049] "Variants" of antigens, antigenic proteins or antigenic
peptides as defined above may be encoded by the at least one RNA of
the active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the present
invention, wherein nucleic acids of the at least one (m)RNA,
encoding the antigen, antigenic protein or antigenic peptide as
defined above, are exchanged. Thereby, an antigen, antigenic
protein or antigenic peptide may be generated, having an amino acid
sequence which differs from the original sequence in one or more
mutation(s), such as one or more substituted, inserted and/or
deleted amino acid(s). Preferably, these fragments and/or variants
have the same biological function or specific activity compared to
the full-length native antigen or antigenic protein, e.g. its
specific antigenic property.
[0050] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the present invention may also encode an
antigen or an antigenic protein as defined above, wherein the
encoded amino acid sequence comprises conservative amino acid
substitution(s) compared to its physiological sequence. Those
encoded amino acid sequences as well as their encoding nucleotide
sequences in particular fall under the term variants as defined
above. Substitutions in which amino acids which originate from the
same class are exchanged for one another are called conservative
substitutions. In particular, these are amino acids having
aliphatic side chains, positively or negatively charged side
chains, aromatic groups in the side chains or amino acids, the side
chains of which can enter into hydrogen bridges, e.g. side chains
which have a hydroxyl function.
[0051] This means that e.g. an amino acid having a polar side chain
is replaced by another amino acid having a likewise polar side
chain, or, for example, an amino acid characterized by a
hydrophobic side chain is substituted by another amino acid having
a likewise hydrophobic side chain (e.g. serine (threonine) by
threonine (serine) or leucine (isoleucine) by isoleucine
(leucine)). Insertions and substitutions are possible, in
particular, at those sequence positions which cause no modification
to the three-dimensional structure or do not affect the binding
region. Modifications to a three-dimensional structure by
insertion(s) or deletion(s) can easily be determined e.g. using CD
spectra (circular dichroism spectra) (Urry, 1985, Absorption,
Circular Dichroism and ORD of Polypeptides, in: Modern Physical
Methods in Biochemistry, Neuberger et al. (ed.), Elsevier,
Amsterdam).
[0052] Furthermore, variants of antigens, antigenic proteins or
antigenic peptides as defined above, which may be encoded by the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition
according to the present invention, may also comprise those
sequences, wherein nucleic acids of the at least one (m)RNA are
exchanged according to the degeneration of the genetic code,
without leading to an alteration of respective amino acid sequence
of the antigen, antigenic protein or antigenic peptide, i.e. the
amino acid sequence or at least part thereof may not differ from
the original sequence in one or more mutation(s) within the above
meaning.
[0053] In order to determine the percentage to which two sequences
(nucleic acid sequences, e.g. RNA or mRNA sequences as defined
herein, or amino acid sequences, preferably their encoded amino
acid sequences, e.g. the amino acid sequences of the antigens,
antigenic proteins or antigenic peptides as defined above) are
identical, the sequences can be aligned in order to be subsequently
compared to one another. Therefore, e.g. gaps can be inserted into
the sequence of the first sequence and the component at the
corresponding position of the second sequence can be compared. If a
position in the first sequence is occupied by the same component as
is the case at a position in the second sequence, the two sequences
are identical at this position. The percentage to which two
sequences are identical is a function of the number of identical
positions divided by the total number of positions. The percentage
to which two sequences are identical can be determined using a
mathematical algorithm. A preferred, but not limiting, example of a
mathematical algorithm which can be used is the algorithm of Karlin
et al. (1993), PNAS USA, 90:5873-5877 or Altschul et al. (1997),
Nucleic Acids Res., 25:3389-3402. Such an algorithm is integrated
in the BLAST program. Sequences which are identical to the
sequences of the present invention to a certain extent can be
identified by this program.
[0054] The active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the
present invention comprises, as defined above, at least one RNA,
encoding least two (preferably different) antigens selected from
any of the antigens of the above group, since according to the
invention a specific combination of at least two (preferably
different) antigens of the afore mentioned group is capable to
effectively stimulate the (adaptive) immune system to allow
treatment of lung cancer, especially of non-small cell lung cancer
(NSCLC). However, the present invention may also provide such
active (immunostimulatory) compositions, comprising at least one
RNA, encoding three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten,
eleven or even even twelve (preferably different) antigens selected
from any of the antigens of the above group, wherein any
combination of these antigens is possible and envisaged.
[0055] According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition
according to the present invention, may encode at least two
(preferably different) antigens selected from any of the antigens
of a subgroup comprising the following antigens: [0056] hTERT,
[0057] WT1, [0058] 5T4, [0059] NY-ESO-1, [0060] Survivin, and/or
[0061] MAGE-C2.
[0062] More preferably, the present invention may also provide an
active (immunostimulatory) composition, comprising at least one
RNA, encoding at least three, four, five or six (preferably
different) antigens selected from any of the antigens of the above
group or subgroup, wherein any combination of these antigens is
possible.
[0063] Accordingly, due to another particularly preferred
embodiment, the at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention, may encode at least two
(preferably different) antigens selected from any of the antigens
of the above mentioned group(s) or subgroup(s) comprising (at
least) any one of the following combinations of antigens: [0064]
hTERT and WT1, or [0065] hTERT and 5T4, or [0066] hTERT and
NY-ESO-1, or [0067] hTERT and Survivin, or [0068] hTERT and
MAGE-C2, or [0069] WT1 and 5T4, or [0070] WT1 and NY-ESO-1, or
[0071] WT1 and Survivin, or [0072] WT1 and MAGE-C2, or [0073] 5T4
and NY-ESO-1, or [0074] 5T4 and Survivin, or [0075] 5T4 and
MAGE-C2, or [0076] NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0077] NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C2, or [0078] Survivin and MAGE-C2, [0079] or [0080] hTERT,
WT1 and 5T4, or [0081] hTERT, WT1 and NY-ESO-1, or [0082] hTERT,
WT1 and Survivin, or [0083] hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-C2, or [0084]
hTERT, 5T4, and NY-ESO-1, or [0085] hTERT, 5T4, and Survivin, or
[0086] hTERT, 5T4, and MAGE-C2, or [0087] hTERT, NY-ESO-1 and
Survivin, or [0088] hTERT, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0089] hTERT,
Survivin and MAGE-C2, or [0090] WT1, 5T4 and NY-ESO-1, or [0091]
WT1, 5T4 and Survivin, or [0092] WT1, 5T4 and MAGE-C2, or [0093]
WT1, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0094] WT1, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or
[0095] WT1, Survivin and MAGE-C2, or [0096] 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and
Survivin, or [0097] 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0098] 5T4,
Survivin and MAGE-C2, or [0099] NY-ESO-1, Survivin, and MAGE-C2,
[0100] or [0101] hTERT, WT1, 5T4 and NY-ESO-1, or [0102] hTERT,
WT1, 5T4 and Survivin, or [0103] hTERT, WT1, 5T4 and MAGE-C2, or
[0104] hTERT, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0105] hTERT, 5T4,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0106] hTERT, NY-ESO-1, Survivin and
MAGE-C2, or [0107] WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1, and Survivin, or [0108] WT1,
5T4, NY-ESO-1, and MAGE-C2, or [0109] WT1, 5T4, Survivin, and
MAGE-C2, or [0110] 5T4, NY-ESO-1, Survivin, and MAGE-C2, [0111] or
[0112] hTERT, WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0113] hTERT,
WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0114] WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1,
Survivin and MAGE-C2, [0115] or [0116] hTERT, WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1,
Survivin, and MAGE-C2.
[0117] More preferably, the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention, may
encode at least two (preferably different) antigens exclusively
selected from any of the antigens of the above mentioned group(s)
or subgroup(s) comprising (at least) any one of the following
combinations of antigens: [0118] hTERT and WT1, or [0119] hTERT and
5T4, or [0120] hTERT and NY-ESO-1, or [0121] hTERT and Survivin, or
[0122] hTERT and MAGE-C2, or [0123] WT1 and 5T4, or [0124] WT1 and
NY-ESO-1, or [0125] WT1 and Survivin, or [0126] WT1 and MAGE-C2, or
[0127] 5T4 and NY-ESO-1, or [0128] 5T4 and Survivin, or [0129] 5T4
and MAGE-C2, or [0130] NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0131] NY-ESO-1
and MAGE-C2, or [0132] Survivin and MAGE-C2, [0133] or [0134]
hTERT, WT1 and 5T4, or [0135] hTERT, WT1 and NY-ESO-1, or [0136]
hTERT, WT1 and Survivin, or [0137] hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-C2, or
[0138] hTERT, 5T4, and NY-ESO-1, or [0139] hTERT, 5T4, and
Survivin, or [0140] hTERT, 5T4, and MAGE-C2, or [0141] hTERT,
NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0142] hTERT, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or
[0143] hTERT, Survivin and MAGE-C2, or [0144] WT1, 5T4 and
NY-ESO-1, or [0145] WT1, 5T4 and Survivin, or [0146] WT1, 5T4 and
MAGE-C2, or [0147] WT1, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0148] WT1,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0149] WT1, Survivin and MAGE-C2, or
[0150] 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin, or [0151] 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C2, or [0152] 5T4, Survivin and MAGE-C2, or [0153] NY-ESO-1,
Survivin, and MAGE-C2, [0154] or [0155] hTERT, WT1, 5T4 and
NY-ESO-1, or [0156] hTERT, WT1, 5T4 and Survivin, or [0157] hTERT,
WT1, 5T4 and MAGE-C2, or [0158] hTERT, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin,
or [0159] hTERT, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0160] hTERT,
NY-ESO-1, Survivin and MAGE-C2, or [0161] WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1, and
Survivin, or [0162] WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1, and MAGE-C2, or [0163] WT1,
5T4, Survivin, and MAGE-C2, or [0164] 5T4, NY-ESO-1, Survivin, and
MAGE-C2, [0165] or [0166] hTERT, WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin,
or [0167] hTERT, WT1, 5T4, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2, or [0168] WT1,
5T4, NY-ESO-1, Survivin and MAGE-C2, [0169] or [0170] hTERT, WT1,
5T4, NY-ESO-1, Survivin, and MAGE-C2.
[0171] According to a further preferred embodiment, the present
invention provides an active (immunostimulatory) composition
comprising at least one RNA, encoding at least two (preferably
different) antigens, [0172] a) wherein at least one, preferably at
least two, three, four, five or even six, of these at least two
antigens is (are) selected from: [0173] 5T4 [0174] NY-ESO-1, [0175]
MAGE-A2, [0176] MAGE-A3, [0177] MAGE-C1, and/or [0178] MAGE-C2, and
[0179] b) wherein the further antigen(s) is (are) selected from at
least one antigen as defined herein, preferably in any of the
herein mentioned combinations, groups or subgroups of antigens,
e.g. the further antigen(s) is (are) selected from, e.g.: [0180]
hTERT, [0181] WT1, [0182] MAGE-A2, [0183] 5T4, [0184] MAGE-A3,
[0185] MUC1, [0186] Her-2/neu, [0187] NY-ESO-1, [0188] CEA, [0189]
Survivin, [0190] MAGE-C1, and/or [0191] MAGE-C2.
[0192] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least
one antigen(s) according to a) is (are) selected from: [0193]
NY-ESO-1, [0194] MAGE-C1, and/or [0195] MAGE-C2.
[0196] According to another preferred embodiment, the at least one
antigen(s) according to a) is (are) selected from: [0197] MAGE-C1,
and/or [0198] MAGE-C2.
[0199] According to another preferred embodiment, the at least one
antigen(s) according to b) is (are) selected from an antigen
(antigens) as defined in one of the following combinations: [0200]
hTERT and WT1; or [0201] hTERT and MAGE-A2; or [0202] hTERT and
5T4; or [0203] hTERT and MAGE-A3; or [0204] hTERT and MUC1; or
[0205] hTERT and Her-2/neu; or [0206] hTERT and NY-ESO-1; or [0207]
hTERT and CEA; or [0208] hTERT and Survivin; or [0209] hTERT and
MAGE-C1; or [0210] hTERT and MAGE-C2; or [0211] WT1 and MAGE-A2; or
[0212] WT1 and 5T4; or [0213] WT1 and MAGE-A3; or [0214] WT1 and
MUC1; or [0215] WT1 and Her-2/neu; or [0216] WT1 and NY-ESO-1; or
[0217] WT1 and CEA; or [0218] WT1 and Survivin; or [0219] WT1 and
MAGE-C1; or [0220] WT1 and MAGE-C2; or [0221] MAGE-A2 and 5T4; or
[0222] MAGE-A2 and MAGE-A3; or [0223] MAGE-A2 and MUC1; or [0224]
MAGE-A2 and Her-2/neu; or [0225] MAGE-A2 and NY-ESO-1; or [0226]
MAGE-A2 and CEA; or [0227] MAGE-A2 and Survivin; or [0228] MAGE-A2
and MAGE-C1; or [0229] MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C2; or [0230] 5T4 and
MAGE-A3; or [0231] 5T4 and MUC1; or [0232] 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or
[0233] 5T4 and NY-ESO-1; or [0234] 5T4 and CEA; or [0235] 5T4 and
Survivin; or [0236] 5T4 and MAGE-C1; or [0237] 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or
[0238] MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or [0239] MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or [0240]
MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or [0241] MAGE-A3 and CEA; or [0242] MAGE-A3
and Survivin; or [0243] MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1 [0244] MAGE-A3 and
MAGE-C2 [0245] MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or [0246] MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or
[0247] MUC1 and CEA; or [0248] MUC1 and Survivin; or [0249] MUC1
and MAGE-C1; or [0250] MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or [0251] HER-2/NEU and
NY-ESO-1; or [0252] HER-2/NEU and CEA; or [0253] HER-2/NEU and
Survivin; or [0254] HER-2/NEU and MAGE-C1; or [0255] HER-2/NEU and
MAGE-C2; or [0256] NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or [0257] NY-ESO-1 and
Survivin; or [0258] NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or [0259] NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C2; or [0260] CEA and Survivin; or [0261] CEA and MAGE-C1; or
[0262] CEA and MAGE-C2; or [0263] Survivin and MAGE-C1; or [0264]
Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0265] MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0266] or
[0267] hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-A2; or [0268] hTERT, WT1 and 5T4; or
[0269] hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-A3; or [0270] hTERT, WT1 and MUC1; or
[0271] hTERT, WT1 and Her-2/neu; or [0272] hTERT, WT1 and NY-ESO-1;
or [0273] hTERT, WT1 and CEA; or [0274] hTERT, WT1 and Survivin; or
[0275] hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-C1; or [0276] hTERT, WT1 and MAGE-C2; or
[0277] WT1, MAGE-A2 and 5T4; or [0278] WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-A3; or
[0279] WT1, MAGE-A2 and MUC1; or [0280] WT1, MAGE-A2 and Her-2/neu;
or [0281] WT1, MAGE-A2 and NY-ESO-1; or [0282] WT1, MAGE-A2 and
CEA; or [0283] WT1, MAGE-A2 and Survivin; or [0284] WT1, MAGE-A2
and MAGE-C1; or [0285] WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C2; or [0286] MAGE-A2,
5T4 and MAGE-A3; or [0287] MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MUC1; or [0288]
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or [0289] MAGE-A2, 5T4 and NY-ESO-1; or
[0290] MAGE-A2, 5T4 and CEA; or [0291] MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Survivin;
or [0292] MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C1; or [0293] MAGE-A2, 5T4 and
MAGE-C2; or [0294] 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or [0295] 5T4, MAGE-A3
and Her-2/neu; or [0296] 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or [0297] 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and CEA; or [0298] 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or [0299]
5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1; or [0300] 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2; or
[0301] MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or [0302] MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
NY-ESO-1; or [0303] MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA; or [0304] MAGE-A3, MUC1
and Survivin; or [0305] MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or [0306]
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or [0307] MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1;
or [0308] MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or [0309] MUC1, Her-2/neu and
Survivin; or [0310] MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or [0311] MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or [0312] HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or
[0313] HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or [0314] HER-2/NEU,
NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or [0315] HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or
[0316] NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or [0317] NY-ESO-1, CEA and
MAGE-Ci; or [0318] NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or [0319] CEA,
Survivin and MAGE-C1; or [0320] CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or
[0321] Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0322] or [0323] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2 and 5T4; or [0324] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-A3; or
[0325] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and MUC1; or [0326] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2
and Her-2/neu; or [0327] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and NY-ESO-1; or
[0328] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and CEA; or [0329] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2
and Survivin; or [0330] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C1; or [0331]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2 and MAGE-C2; or [0332] WTI, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and
MAGE-A3; or [0333] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MUC1; or [0334] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or [0335] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and
NY-ESO-1; or [0336] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and CEA; or [0337] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Survivin; or [0338] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C1;
or [0339] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or [0340] MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or [0341] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or
[0342] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or [0343] MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and CEA; or [0344] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Survivin; or
[0345] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1; or [0346] MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2; or [0347] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, and Her-2/neu;
or [0348] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or [0349] 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1 and CEA; or [0350] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin; or [0351]
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or [0352] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
MAGE-C2; or [0353] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or [0354]
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or [0355] MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and Survivin; or [0356] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
MAGE-C1; or [0357] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or [0358]
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or [0359] MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or [0360] MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C1; or [0361] MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or [0362]
HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or [0363] HER-2/NEU,
NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0364] HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA and
MAGE-C2; or [0365] NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or [0366]
NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0367] CEA, Survivin,
MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0368] or [0369] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and
MAGE-A3; or [0370] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MUC1; or [0371]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Her-2/neu; or [0372] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and NY-ESO-1; or [0373] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and
CEA; or [0374] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and Survivin; or [0375]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C1; or [0376] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4 and MAGE-C2; or [0377] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
MUC1; or [0378] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or [0379]
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or [0380] WT1, MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3 and CEA; or [0381] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
Survivin; or [0382] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C1; or
[0383] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2; or [0384] MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or [0385] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or [0386] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA;
or [0387] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin; or [0388]
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or [0389] MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or [0390] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu
and NY-ESO-1; or [0391] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or
[0392] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin; or [0393] 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or [0394] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or [0395] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1
and CEA; or [0396] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin;
or [0397] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or [0398]
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or [0399] MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or [0400] MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0401] MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA
and MAGE-C2; or [0402] HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C1; or [0403] HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2;
or [0404] NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0405] or
[0406] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MUC1; or [0407] hTERT,
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and Her-2/neu; or [0408] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and NY-ESO-1; or [0409] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3 and CEA; or [0410] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3
and Survivin; or [0411] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and
MAGE-C1; or [0412] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3 and MAGE-C2;
or [0413] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or [0414]
WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or [0415] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA; or [0416] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin; or [0417] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or [0418] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and
MAGE-C2; or [0419] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
NY-ESO-1; or [0420] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA;
or [0421] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin; or
[0422] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or
[0423] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or
[0424] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or [0425]
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or [0426]
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or [0427] 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or [0428] MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or [0429] MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0430] MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or [0431] MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or [0432] MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0433]
HER-2/NEU, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0434] or
[0435] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Her-2/neu; or
[0436] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and NY-ESO-1; or
[0437] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and CEA; or [0438]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and Survivin; or [0439]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C1; or [0440]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1 and MAGE-C2; or [0441] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or [0442] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or [0443] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and Survivin; or [0444] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or [0445] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or [0446]
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or [0447]
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or
[0448] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C1; or [0449] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1
and MAGE-C2; or [0450] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA
and Survivin; or [0451] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0452] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA and MAGE-C2; or [0453] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA,
Survivin and MAGE-C1; or [0454] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0455] MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0456] or [0457] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and NY-ESO-1; or [0458]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and CEA; or
[0459] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu and
Survivin; or [0460] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu and MAGE-C1; or [0461] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu and MAGE-C2; or [0462] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or [0463] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and Survivin; or [0464] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or
[0465] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and
MAGE-C2; or [0466] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin; or [0467] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0468] MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or [0469] 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or
[0470] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and
MAGE-C2; or [0471] MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA,
Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0472] or [0473] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and CEA; or [0474]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and
Survivin; or [0475] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C1; or [0476] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2,
5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1 and MAGE-C2; or [0477] WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and Survivin;
or [0478] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0479] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2; or [0480] MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or
[0481] MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA,
Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0482] 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0483] or [0484]
hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA
and Survivin; or [0485] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C1; or [0486] hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA and MAGE-C2;
or [0487] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1,
CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or [0488] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3,
MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0489]
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin,
MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2; [0490] or [0491] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C1; or
[0492] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu,
NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin and MAGE-C2; or [0493] WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4,
MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and
MAGE-C2; [0494] or [0495] hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2.
[0496] According to another particularly preferred embodiment, the
at least one antigen(s) according to b) is (are) selected from the
following specific combination of antigens as defined above: [0497]
Survivin and 5T4
[0498] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the present invention is typically any
RNA, preferably, without being limited thereto, a coding RNA, a
circular or linear RNA, a single- or a double-stranded RNA (which
may also be regarded as a RNA due to non-covalent association of
two single-stranded RNA) or a partially double-stranded or
partially single stranded RNA, which are at least partially self
complementary (both of these partially double-stranded or partially
single stranded RNA molecules are typically formed by a longer and
a shorter single-stranded RNA molecule or by two single stranded
RNA-molecules, which are about equal in length, wherein one
single-stranded RNA molecule is in part complementary to the other
single-stranded RNA molecule and both thus form a double-stranded
RNA in this region, i.e. a partially double-stranded or partially
single stranded RNA with respect to the entire RNA sequence). More
preferably, the at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the present invention is a single-stranded
RNA, even more preferably a linear RNA. Most preferably, the at
least RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition according
to the present invention is a messenger RNA (mRNA). In this
context, a messenger RNA (mRNA) is typically a RNA, which is
composed of (at least) several structural elements, e.g. an
optional 5'-UTR region, an upstream positioned ribosomal binding
site followed by a coding region, an optional 3'-UTR region, which
may be followed by a poly-A tail (and/or a poly-C-tail).
[0499] Due to one particularly preferred embodiment, each of the at
least two (preferably different) antigens of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention, may be
encoded by one (monocistronic) RNA, preferably one (monocistronic)
mRNA. In other words, the active (immunostimulatory) composition of
the present invention may contain at least two (monocistronic)
RNAs, preferably mRNAs, wherein each of these at least two
(monocistronic) RNAs, preferably mRNAs, may encode just one
(preferably different) antigen, selected from one of the above
mentioned groups or subgroups, preferably in one of the above
mentioned combinations.
[0500] According to another particularly preferred embodiment, the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention,
may comprise (at least) one bi- or even multicistronic RNA,
preferably mRNA, i.e. (at least) one RNA which carries two or even
more of the coding sequences of at the least two (preferably
different) antigens, selected from one of the above mentioned
groups or subgroups, preferably in one of the above mentioned
combinations. Such coding sequences of the at least two (preferably
different) antigens of the (at least) one bi- or even
multicistronic RNA may be separated by at least one IRES (internal
ribosomal entry site) sequence, as defined below. Thus, the term
"encoding at least two (preferably different) antigens" may mean,
without being limited thereto, that the (at least) one (bi- or even
multicistronic) RNA, preferably a mRNA, may encode e.g. at least
two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven or
twelve (preferably different) antigens of the above mentioned
group(s) of antigens or their fragments or variants within the
above definitions. More preferably, without being limited thereto,
the (at least) one (bi- or even multicistronic) RNA, preferably
mRNA, may encode e.g. at least two, three, four, five or six
(preferably different) antigens of the above mentioned subgroup(s)
of antigens or their fragments or variants within the above
definitions. In this context, a so-called IRES (internal ribosomal
entry site) sequence as defined above can function as a sole
ribosome binding site, but it can also serve to provide a bi- or
even multicistronic RNA as defined above which codes for several
proteins, which are to be translated by the ribosomes independently
of one another. Examples of IRES sequences which can be used
according to the invention are those from picornaviruses (e.g.
FMDV), pestiviruses (CFFV), polioviruses (PV), encephalomyocarditis
viruses (ECMV), foot and mouth disease viruses (FMDV), hepatitis C
viruses (HCV), classical swine fever viruses (CSFV), mouse leukoma
virus (MLV), simian immunodeficiency viruses (SIV) or cricket
paralysis viruses (CrPV).
[0501] According to a further particularly preferred embodiment,
the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention, may comprise a mixture of at least one monocistronic
RNA, preferably mRNA, as defined above, and at least one bi- or
even multicistronic RNA, preferably mRNA, as defined above. The at
least one monocistronic RNA and/or the at least one bi- or even
multicistronic RNA preferably encode different antigens or their
fragments or variants within the above definitions, the antigens
preferably being selected from one of the above mentioned groups or
subgroups of antigens, more preferably in one of the above
mentioned combinations. However, the at least one monocistronic RNA
and the at least one bi- or even multicistronic RNA may preferably
also encode (in part) identical antigens selected from one of the
above mentioned groups or subgroups of antigens, preferably in one
of the above mentioned combinations, provided that the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention as a whole
provides at least two (preferably different) antigens as defined
above. Such an embodiment may be advantageous e.g. for a staggered,
e.g. time dependent, administration of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention to a
patient in need thereof. The components of such an active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention,
particularly the different RNAs encoding the at least two
(preferably different) antigens, may be e.g. contained in
(different parts of) a kit of parts composition or may be e.g.
administered separately as components of different active
(immunostimulatory) compositions according to the present
invention.
[0502] Preferably, the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition, encoding at least two (preferably
different) antigens selected from the above defined group or
subgroup of antigens, more preferably in the above combinations,
typically comprises a length of about 50 to about 20000, or 100 to
about 20000 nucleotides, preferably of about 250 to about 20000
nucleotides, more preferably of about 500 to about 10000, even more
preferably of about 500 to about 5000.
[0503] According to one embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition, encoding at least two
(preferably different) antigens selected from the above defined
group(s) or subgroup(s) of antigens, more preferably in the above
combinations, may be in the form of a modified RNA, wherein any
modification, as defined herein, may be introduced into the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition.
Modifications as defined herein preferably lead to a stabilized at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the
present invention.
[0504] According to a first embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention may
thus be provided as a "stabilized RNA", preferably a stabilized
mRNA, that is to say as an (m)RNA that is essentially resistant to
in vivo degradation (e.g. by an exo- or endo-nuclease). Such
stabilization can be effected, for example, by a modified phosphate
backbone of the at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention. A
backbone modification in connection with the present invention is a
modification in which phosphates of the backbone of the nucleotides
contained in the RNA are chemically modified. Nucleotides that may
be preferably used in this connection contain e.g. a
phosphorothioate-modified phosphate backbone, preferably at least
one of the phosphate oxygens contained in the phosphate backbone
being replaced by a sulfur atom. Stabilized (m)RNAs may further
include, for example: non-ionic phosphate analogues, such as, for
example, alkyl and aryl phosphonates, in which the charged
phosphonate oxygen is replaced by an alkyl or aryl group, or
phosphodiesters and alkylphosphotriesters, in which the charged
oxygen residue is present in alkylated form. Such backbone
modifications typically include, without implying any limitation,
modifications from the group consisting of methylphosphonates,
phosphoramidates and phosphorothioates (e.g.
cytidine-5'-O-(1-thiophosphate)).
[0505] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention may additionally or
alternatively also contain sugar modifications. A sugar
modification in connection with the present invention is a chemical
modification of the sugar of the nucleotides of the at least one
RNA and typically includes, without implying any limitation, sugar
modifications selected from the group consisting of
2'-deoxy-2'-fluoro-oligoribonucleotide(2'-fluoro-2'-deoxycytidine-5'-trip-
hosphate, 2'-fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine-5'-triphosphate),
2'-deoxy-2'-deamine oligoribonucleotide
(2'-amino-2'-deoxycytidine-5'-triphosphate,
2'-amino-2'-deoxyuridine-5'-triphosphate), 2'-O-alkyl
oligoribonucleotide, 2'-deoxy-2'-C-alkyl oligoribonucleotide
(2'-O-methylcytidine-5'-triphosphate, 2'-methyluridine-5'-tri
phosphate), 2'-C-alkyl oligoribonucleotide, and isomers thereof
(2'-aracytidine-5'-triphosphate, 2'-arauridine-5'-triphosphate), or
azidotriphosphate (2'-azido-2'-deoxycytidine-5'-triphosphate,
2'-azido-2'-deoxyuridine-5'-triphosphate).
[0506] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention may additionally or
alternatively also contain at least one base modification, which is
preferably suitable for increasing the expression of the protein
coded for by the at least one RNA sequence significantly as
compared with the unaltered, i.e. natural (=native), RNA sequence.
Significant in this case means an increase in the expression of the
protein compared with the expression of the native RNA sequence by
at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, 40%, 50% or 60%, more
preferably by at least 70%, 80%, 90% or even 100% and most
preferably by at least 150%, 200% or even 300% or more. In
connection with the present invention, a nucleotide having such a
base modification is preferably selected from the group of the
base-modified nucleotides consisting of
2-amino-6-chloropurineriboside-5'-triphosphate,
2-aminoadenosine-5'-triphosphate, 2-thiocytidine-5'-triphosphate,
2-thiouridine-5'-triphosphate, 4-thiouridine-5'-triphosphate,
5-aminoallylcytidine-5'-triphosphate,
5-aminoallyluridine-5'-triphosphate,
5-bromocytidine-5'-triphosphate, 5-bromouridine-5'-triphosphate,
5-iodocytidine-5'-triphosphate, 5-iodouridine-5'-triphosphate,
5-methylcytidine-5'-triphosphate, 5-methyluridine-5'-triphosphate,
6-azacytidine-5'-triphosphate, 6-azauridine-5'-triphosphate,
6-chloropurineriboside-5'-triphosphate,
7-deazaadenosine-5'-triphosphate, 7-deazaguanosine-5'-triphosphate,
8-azaadenosine-5'-triphosphate, 8-azidoadenosine-5'-triphosphate,
benzimidazole-riboside-5'-triphosphate,
N1-methyladenosine-5'-triphosphate,
N1-methylguanosine-5'-triphosphate,
N6-methyladenosine-5'-triphosphate,
O6-methylguanosine-5'-triphosphate, pseudouridine-5'-triphosphate,
or puromycin-5'-triphosphate, xanthosine-5'-triphosphate.
Particular preference is given to nucleotides for base
modifications selected from the group of base-modified nucleotides
consisting of 5-methylcytidine-5'-triphosphate,
7-deazaguanosine-5'-triphosphate, 5-bromocytidine-5'-triphosphate,
and pseudouridine-5'-triphosphate.
[0507] According to another embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention can
likewise be modified (and preferably stabilized) by introducing
further modified nucleotides containing modifications of their
ribose or base moieties. Generally, the at least one (m)RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention may
contain any native (=naturally occurring) nucleotide, e.g.
guanosine, uracil, adenosine, and/or cytosine or an analogue
thereof. In this connection, nucleotide analogues are defined as
non-natively occurring variants of naturally occurring nucleotides.
Accordingly, analogues are chemically derivatized nucleotides with
non-natively occurring functional groups, which are preferably
added to or deleted from the naturally occurring nucleotide or
which substitute the naturally occurring functional groups of a
nucleotide. Accordingly, each component of the naturally occurring
nucleotide may be modified, namely the base component, the sugar
(ribose) component and/or the phosphate component forming the
backbone (see above) of the RNA sequence. Analogues of guanosine,
uracil, adenosine, and cytosine include, without implying any
limitation, any naturally occurring or non-naturally occurring
guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine or cytosine that has been
altered chemically, for example by acetylation, methylation,
hydroxylation, etc., including 1-methyl-adenosine,
1-methyl-guanosine, 1-methyl-inosine, 2,2-dimethyl-guanosine,
2,6-diaminopurine, 2'-Amino-2'-deoxyadenosine,
2'-Amino-2'-deoxycytidine, 2'-Amino-2'-deoxyguanosine,
2'-Amino-2'-deoxyuridine, 2-Amino-6-chloropurineriboside,
2-Aminopurine-riboside, 2'-Araadenosine, 2'-Aracytidine,
2'-Arauridine, 2'-Azido-2.varies.-deoxyadenosine,
2'-Azido-2'-deoxycytidine, 2'-Azido-2'-deoxyguanosine,
2'-Azido-2'-deoxyuridine, 2-Chloroadenosine,
2'-Fluoro-2'-deoxyadenosine, 2'-Fluoro-2'-deoxycytidine,
2'-Fluoro-2'-deoxyguanosine, 2'-Fluoro-2'-deoxyuridine,
2'-Fluorothymidine, 2-methyl-adenosine, 2-methyl-guanosine,
2-methyl-thio-N6-isopenenyl-adenosine,
2'-O-Methyl-2-aminoadenosine, 2'-O-Methyl-2'-deoxyadenosine,
2'-O-Methyl-2'-deoxycytidine, 2'-O-Methyl-2'-deoxyguanosine,
2'-O-Methyl-2'-deoxyuridine, 2'-O-Methyl-5-methyluridine,
2'-O-Methylinosine, 2'-O-Methylpseudouridine, 2-Thiocytidine,
2-thio-cytosine, 3-methyl-cytosine, 4-acetyl-cytosine,
4-Thiouridine, 5-(carboxyhydroxymethyl)-uracil, 5,6-Dihydrouridine,
5-Aminoallylcytidine, 5-Aminoallyl-deoxy-uridine, 5-Bromouridine,
5-carboxymehtylaminomethyl-2-thio-uracil,
5-carboxymethylamonomethyl-uracil, 5-Chloro-Ara-cytosine,
5-Fluoro-uridine, 5-Iodouridine, 5-methoxycarbonylmethyl-uridine,
5-methoxy-uridine, 5-methyl-2-thio-uridine, 6-Azacytidine,
6-Azauridine, 6-Chloro-7-deaza-guanosine, 6-Chloropurineriboside,
6-Mercapto-guanosine, 6-Methyl-mercaptopurine-riboside,
7-Deaza-2'-deoxy-guanosine, 7-Deazaadenosine, 7-methyl-guanosine,
8-Azaadenosine, 8-Bromo-adenosine, 8-Bromo-guanosine,
8-Mercapto-guanosine, 8-Oxoguanosine, Benzimidazole-riboside,
Beta-D-mannosyl-queosine, Dihydro-uracil, Inosine,
N1-Methyladenosine, N6-([6-Aminohexyl]carbamoylmethyl)-adenosine,
N6-isopentenyl-adenosine, N6-methyl-adenosine,
N7-Methyl-xanthosine, N-uracil-5-oxyacetic acid methyl ester,
Puromycin, Queosine, Uracil-5-oxyacetic acid, Uracil-5-oxyacetic
acid methyl ester, Wybutoxosine, Xanthosine, and Xylo-adenosine.
The preparation of such analogues is known to a person skilled in
the art, for example from U.S. Pat. No. 4,373,071, U.S. Pat. No.
4,401,796, U.S. Pat. No. 4,415,732, U.S. Pat. No. 4,458,066, U.S.
Pat. No. 4,500,707, U.S. Pat. No. 4,668,777, U.S. Pat. No.
4,973,679, U.S. Pat. No. 5,047,524, U.S. Pat. No. 5,132,418, U.S.
Pat. No. 5,153,319, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,262,530 and 5,700,642. In the
case of an analogue as described above, particular preference may
be given according to the invention to those analogues that
increase the immunogenity of the RNA of the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition and/or do not interfere with a
further modification of the RNA that has been introduced.
[0508] According to a particular embodiment, the at least one RNA
of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention can contain a lipid modification. Such a lipid-modified
RNA typically comprises a RNA as defined herein, encoding at least
two antigens selected from the group or subgroup of antigens as
defined above, preferably in the above combinations. Such a
lipid-modified RNA typically further comprises at least one linker
covalently linked with that RNA, and at least one lipid covalently
linked with the respective linker. Alternatively, the
lipid-modified RNA comprises an at least one RNA as defined herein
and at least one (bifunctional) lipid covalently linked (without a
linker) with that RNA. According to a third alternative, the
lipid-modified RNA comprises a RNA as defined herein, at least one
linker covalently linked with that RNA, and at least one lipid
covalently linked with the respective linker, and also at least one
(bifunctional) lipid covalently linked (without a linker) with that
RNA.
[0509] The lipid contained in the at least one RNA of the inventive
active (immunostimulatory) composition (complexed or covalently
bound thereto) is typically a lipid or a lipophilic residue that
preferably is itself biologically active. Such lipids preferably
include natural substances or compounds such as, for example,
vitamins, e.g. alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E), including
RRR-alpha-tocopherol (formerly D-alpha-tocopherol),
L-alpha-tocopherol, the racemate D,L-alpha-tocopherol, vitamin E
succinate (VES), or vitamin A and its derivatives, e.g. retinoic
acid, retinol, vitamin D and its derivatives, e.g. vitamin D and
also the ergosterol precursors thereof, vitamin E and its
derivatives, vitamin K and its derivatives, e.g. vitamin K and
related quinone or phytol compounds, or steroids, such as bile
acids, for example cholic acid, deoxycholic acid, dehydrocholic
acid, cortisone, digoxygenin, testosterone, cholesterol or
thiocholesterol. Further lipids or lipophilic residues within the
scope of the present invention include, without implying any
limitation, polyalkylene glycols (Oberhauser et at, Nucl. Acids
Res., 1992, 20, 533), aliphatic groups such as, for example,
C1-C20-alkanes, C1-C20-alkenes or C1-C20-alkanol compounds, etc.,
such as, for example, dodecanediol, hexadecanol or undecyl residues
(Saison-Behmoaras et al., EMBO J, 1991, 10, 111; Kabanov et al,
FEBS Lett., 1990, 259, 327; Svinarchuk et al., Biochimie, 1993, 75,
49), phospholipids such as, for example, phosphatidylglycerol,
diacylphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylcholine,
dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine, distearoylphosphatidylcholine,
phosphatidylserine, phosphatidylethanolamine,
di-hexadecyl-rac-glycerol, sphingolipids, cerebrosides,
gangliosides, or triethylammonium
1,2-di-O-hexadecyl-rac-glycero-3-H-phosphonate (Manoharan et al,
Tetrahedron Lett., 1995, 36, 3651; Shea et al, Nucl. Acids Res.,
1990, 18, 3777), polyamines or polyalkylene glycols, such as, for
example, polyethylene glycol (PEG) (Manoharan et al, Nucleosides
& Nucleotides, 1995, 14, 969), hexaethylene glycol (HEG),
palmitin or palmityl residues (Mishra et al, Biochim. Biophys.
Acta, 1995, 1264, 229), octadecylamines or
hexylamino-carbonyl-oxycholesterol residues (Crooke et al, J.
Pharmacol. Exp. Ther., 1996, 277, 923), and also waxes, terpenes,
alicyclic hydrocarbons, saturated and mono- or poly-unsaturated
fatty acid residues, etc.
[0510] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention may likewise be stabilized in
order to prevent degradation of the RNA in vivo by various
approaches. It is known in the art that instability and (fast)
degradation of mRNA or of RNA in vivo in general may represent a
serious problem in the application of RNA based compositions. This
instability of RNA is typically due to RNA-degrading enzymes,
"RNAases" (ribonucleases), wherein contamination with such
ribonucleases may sometimes completely degrade RNA in solution.
Accordingly, the natural degradation of mRNA in the cytoplasm of
cells is very finely regulated and RNase contaminations may be
generally removed by special treatment prior to use of said
compositions, in particular with diethyl pyrocarbonate (DEPC). A
number of mechanisms of natural degradation are known in this
connection in the prior art, which may be utilized as well. E.g.,
the terminal structure is typically of critical importance for a
mRNA in vivo. As an example, at the 5' end of naturally occurring
mRNAs there is usually a so-called "cap structure" (a modified
guanosine nucleotide), and at the 3' end is typically a sequence of
up to 200 adenosine nucleotides (the so-called poly-A tail).
[0511] The at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention, particularly if provided as a
mRNA, can therefore be stabilized against degradation by RNases by
the addition of a so-called "5' cap" structure. Particular
preference is given in this connection to an m7G(5')ppp
(5'(A,G(5')ppp(5')A or G(5')ppp(5')G as the 5' cap" structure.
However, such a modification is introduced only if a modification,
for example a lipid modification, has not already been introduced
at the 5' end of the (m)RNA of the inventive immunostimulatory
composition or if the modification does not interfere with the
immunogenic properties of the (unmodified or chemically modified)
(m)RNA.
[0512] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least
one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the
present invention may contain, especially if the RNA is in the form
of a mRNA, a poly-A tail on the 3' terminus of typically about 10
to 200 adenosine nucleotides, preferably about 10 to 100 adenosine
nucleotides, more preferably about 20 to 100 adenosine nucleotides
or even more preferably about 40 to 80 adenosine nucleotides.
[0513] According to a further preferred embodiment, the at least
one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the
present invention may contain, especially if the RNA is in the form
of a mRNA, a poly-C tail on the 3' terminus of typically about 10
to 200 cytosine nucleotides, preferably about 10 to 100 cytosine
nucleotides, more preferably about 20 to 70 cytosine nucleotides or
even more preferably about 20 to 60 or even 10 to 40 cytosine
nucleotides.
[0514] According to another embodiment, the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention may
be modified, and thus stabilized, especially if the RNA is in the
form of a mRNA, by modifying the G/C content of the RNA, preferably
of the coding region of the at least one RNA.
[0515] In a particularly preferred embodiment of the present
invention, the G/C content of the coding region of the at least one
(m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention is modified, particularly increased, compared to the G/C
content of the coding region of its particular wild-type (m)RNA,
i.e. the unmodified (m)RNA. The encoded amino acid sequence of the
at least one (m)RNA is preferably not modified compared to the
coded amino acid sequence of the particular wild-type (m)RNA.
[0516] This modification of the at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention is based
on the fact that the sequence of any (m)RNA region to be translated
is important for efficient translation of that (m)RNA. Thus, the
composition and the sequence of various nucleotides is important.
In particular, sequences having an increased G (guanosine)/C
(cytosine) content are more stable than sequences having an
increased A (adenosine)/U (uracil) content. According to the
invention, the codons of the (m)RNA are therefore varied compared
to its wild-type (m)RNA, while retaining the translated amino acid
sequence, such that they include an increased amount of G/C
nucleotides. In respect to the fact that several codons code for
one and the same amino acid (so-called degeneration of the genetic
code), the most favorable codons for the stability can be
determined (so-called alternative codon usage).
[0517] Depending on the amino acid to be encoded by the at least
one (m)RNA, there are various possibilities for modification of the
at least one (m)RNA sequence, compared to its wild-type sequence.
In the case of amino acids which are encoded by codons which
contain exclusively G or C nucleotides, no modification of the
codon is necessary. Thus, the codons for Pro (CCC or CCG), Arg (CGC
or CGG), Ala (GCC or GCG) and Gly (GGC or GGG) require no
modification, since no A or U is present.
[0518] In contrast, codons which contain A and/or U nucleotides can
be modified by substitution of other codons which code for the same
amino acids but contain no A and/or U. Examples of these are:
[0519] the codons for Pro can be modified from CCU or CCA to CCC or
CCG;
[0520] the codons for Arg can be modified from CGU or CGA or AGA or
AGG to CGC or CGG;
[0521] the codons for Ala can be modified from GCU or GCA to GCC or
GCG;
[0522] the codons for Gly can be modified from GGU or GGA to GGC or
GGG.
[0523] In other cases, although A or U nucleotides cannot be
eliminated from the codons, it is however possible to decrease the
A and U content by using codons which contain a lower content of A
and/or U nucleotides. Examples of these are:
[0524] the codons for Phe can be modified from UUU to UUC;
[0525] the codons for Leu can be modified from UUA, UUG, CUU or CUA
to CUC or CUG;
[0526] the codons for Ser can be modified from UCU or UCA or AGU to
UCC, UCG or AGC;
[0527] the codon for Tyr can be modified from UAU to UAC;
[0528] the codon for Cys can be modified from UGU to UGC;
[0529] the codon for His can be modified from CAU to CAC;
[0530] the codon for Gln can be modified from CAA to CAG;
[0531] the codons for Ile can be modified from AUU or AUA to
AUC;
[0532] the codons for Thr can be modified from ACU or ACA to ACC or
ACG;
[0533] the codon for Asn can be modified from AAU to AAC;
[0534] the codon for Lys can be modified from AAA to AAG;
[0535] the codons for Val can be modified from GUU or GUA to GUC or
GUG;
[0536] the codon for Asp can be modified from GAU to GAC;
[0537] the codon for Glu can be modified from GAA to GAG;
[0538] the stop codon UAA can be modified to UAG or UGA.
[0539] In the case of the codons for Met (AUG) and Trp (UGG), on
the other hand, there is no possibility of sequence
modification.
[0540] The substitutions listed above can be used either
individually or in all possible combinations to increase the G/C
content of the at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention compared
to its particular wild-type (m)RNA (i.e. the original sequence).
Thus, for example, all codons for Thr occurring in the wild-type
sequence can be modified to ACC (or ACG). Preferably, however, for
example, combinations of the above substitution possibilities are
used:
[0541] substitution of all codons coding for Thr in the original
sequence (wild-type (m)RNA) to ACC (or ACG) and
[0542] substitution of all codons originally coding for Ser to UCC
(or UCG or AGC);
[0543] substitution of all codons coding for Ile in the original
sequence to AUC and
[0544] substitution of all codons originally coding for Lys to AAG
and
[0545] substitution of all codons originally coding for Tyr to
UAC;
[0546] substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original
sequence to GUC (or GUG) and
[0547] substitution of all codons originally coding for Glu to GAG
and
[0548] substitution of all codons originally coding for Ala to GCC
(or GCG) and
[0549] substitution of all codons originally coding for Arg to CGC
(or CGG);
[0550] substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original
sequence to GUC (or GUG) and
[0551] substitution of all codons originally coding for Glu to GAG
and
[0552] substitution of all codons originally coding for Ala to GCC
(or GCG) and
[0553] substitution of all codons originally coding for Gly to GGC
(or GGG) and
[0554] substitution of all codons originally coding for Asn to
AAC;
[0555] substitution of all codons coding for Val in the original
sequence to GUC (or GUG) and
[0556] substitution of all codons originally coding for Phe to UUC
and
[0557] substitution of all codons originally coding for Cys to UGC
and
[0558] substitution of all codons originally coding for Leu to CUG
(or CUC) and
[0559] substitution of all codons originally coding for Gln to CAG
and
[0560] substitution of all codons originally coding for Pro to CCC
(or CCG); etc.
[0561] Preferably, the G/C content of the coding region of the at
least one (m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of
the present invention is increased by at least 7%, more preferably
by at least 15%, particularly preferably by at least 20%, compared
to the G/C content of the coded region of the wild-type (m)RNA
which codes for an antigen, antigenic protein or antigenic peptide
as determined herein or its fragment or variant thereof. According
to a specific embodiment at least 5%, 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%,
more preferably at least 70%, even more preferably at least 80% and
most preferably at least 90%, 95% or even 100% of the substitutable
codons in the region coding for an antigen, antigenic protein or
antigenic peptide as deinined herein or its fragment or variant
thereof or the whole sequence of the wild type (m)RNA sequence are
substituted, thereby increasing the GC/content of said
sequence.
[0562] In this context, it is particularly preferable to increase
the G/C content of the at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention to the
maximum (i.e. 100% of the substitutable codons), in particular in
the region coding for a protein, compared to the wild-type
sequence.
[0563] According to the invention, a further preferred modification
of the at least one (m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention is based on the finding that
the translation efficiency is also determined by a different
frequency in the occurrence of tRNAs in cells. Thus, if so-called
"rare codons" are present in the at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention to an
increased extent, the corresponding modified at least one (m)RNA
sequence is translated to a significantly poorer degree than in the
case where codons coding for relatively "frequent" tRNAs are
present.
[0564] According to the invention, in the modified at least one
(m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention, the region which codes for the adjuvant protein is
modified compared to the corresponding region of the wild-type
(m)RNA such that at least one codon of the wild-type sequence which
codes for a tRNA which is relatively rare in the cell is exchanged
for a codon which codes for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in
the cell and carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare
tRNA. By this modification, the sequences of the at least one
(m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention is modified such that codons for which frequently
occurring tRNAs are available are inserted. In other words,
according to the invention, by this modification all codons of the
wild-type sequence which code for a tRNA which is relatively rare
in the cell can in each case be exchanged for a codon which codes
for a tRNA which is relatively frequent in the cell and which, in
each case, carries the same amino acid as the relatively rare
tRNA.
[0565] Which tRNAs occur relatively frequently in the cell and
which, in contrast, occur relatively rarely is known to a person
skilled in the art; cf. e.g. Akashi, Curr. Opin. Genet. Dev. 2001,
11(6): 660-666. The codons which use for the particular amino acid
the tRNA which occurs the most frequently, e.g. the Gly codon,
which uses the tRNA which occurs the most frequently in the (human)
cell, are particularly preferred.
[0566] According to the invention, it is particularly preferable to
link the sequential G/C content which is increased, in particular
maximized, in the modified at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention, with the
"frequent" codons without modifying the amino acid sequence of the
protein encoded by the coding region of the (m)RNA. This preferred
embodiment allows provision of a particularly efficiently
translated and stabilized (modified) at least one (m)RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention.
[0567] The determination of a modified at least one (m)RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention as
described above (increased G/C content; exchange of tRNAs) can be
carried out using the computer program explained in WO
02/098443--the disclosure content of which is included in its full
scope in the present invention. Using this computer program, the
nucleotide sequence of any desired (m)RNA can be modified with the
aid of the genetic code or the degenerative nature thereof such
that a maximum G/C content results, in combination with the use of
codons which code for tRNAs occurring as frequently as possible in
the cell, the amino acid sequence coded by the modified at least
one (m)RNA preferably not being modified compared to the
non-modified sequence. Alternatively, it is also possible to modify
only the G/C content or only the codon usage compared to the
original sequence. The source code in Visual Basic 6.0 (development
environment used: Microsoft Visual Studio Enterprise 6.0 with
Servicepack 3) is also described in WO 02/098443.
[0568] In a further preferred embodiment of the present invention,
the A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of
the at least one (m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention is increased compared to the
A/U content in the environment of the ribosome binding site of its
particular wild-type (m)RNA. This modification (an increased A/U
content around the ribosome binding site) increases the efficiency
of ribosome binding to the at least one (m)RNA. An effective
binding of the ribosomes to the ribosome binding site (Kozak
sequence: GCCGCCACCAUGG (SEQ ID NO: 27), the AUG forms the start
codon) in turn has the effect of an efficient translation of the at
least one (m)RNA.
[0569] According to a further embodiment of the present invention
the at least one (m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention may be modified with respect
to potentially destabilizing sequence elements. Particularly, the
coding region and/or the 5' and/or 3' untranslated region of this
at least one (m)RNA may be modified compared to the particular
wild-type (m)RNA such that is contains no destabilizing sequence
elements, the coded amino acid sequence of the modified at least
one (m)RNA preferably not being modified compared to its particular
wild-type (m)RNA. It is known that, for example, in sequences of
eukaryotic RNAs destabilizing sequence elements (DSE) occur, to
which signal proteins bind and regulate enzymatic degradation of
RNA in vivo. For further stabilization of the modified at least one
(m)RNA, optionally in the region which encodes for an antigen,
antigenic protein or antigenic peptide as defined herein, one or
more such modifications compared to the corresponding region of the
wild-type (m)RNA can therefore be carried out, so that no or
substantially no destabilizing sequence elements are contained
there. According to the invention, DSE present in the untranslated
regions (3'- and/or 5'-UTR) can also be eliminated from the at
least one (m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of
the present invention by such modifications.
[0570] Such destabilizing sequences are e.g. AU-rich sequences
(AURES), which occur in 3'-UTR sections of numerous unstable RNAs
(Caput et at, Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 1986, 83: 1670 to 1674).
The at least one (m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention is therefore preferably
modified compared to the wild-type (m)RNA such that the at least
one (m)RNA contains no such destabilizing sequences. This also
applies to those sequence motifs which are recognized by possible
endonucleases, e.g. the sequence GAACAAG, which is contained in the
3'-UTR segment of the gene which codes for the transferrin receptor
(Binder et at, EMBO J. 1994, 13: 1969 to 1980). These sequence
motifs are also preferably removed in the at least one (m)RNA of
the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention.
[0571] Also preferably according to the invention, the at least one
(m)RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention has, in a modified form, at least one IRES as defined
above and/or at least one 5' and/or 3' stabilizing sequence, in a
modified form, e.g. to enhance ribosome binding or to allow
expression of different encoded antigens located on an at least one
(bi- or even multicistronic) RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition of the present invention.
[0572] According to the invention, the at least one (m)RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention
furthermore preferably has at least one 5' and/or 3' stabilizing
sequence. These stabilizing sequences in the 5' and/or 3'
untranslated regions have the effect of increasing the half-life of
the at least one (m)RNA in the cytosol. These stabilizing sequences
can have 100% sequence homology to naturally occurring sequences
which occur in viruses, bacteria and eukaryotes, but can also be
partly or completely synthetic. The untranslated sequences (UTR) of
the globin gene, e.g. from Homo sapiens or Xenopus laevis may be
mentioned as an example of stabilizing sequences which can be used
in the present invention for a stabilized RNA. Another example of a
stabilizing sequence has the general formula
(C/U)CCAN.sub.xCCC(U/A)Py.sub.xUC(C/U)CC (SEQ ID NO: 28), which is
contained in the 3'UTR of the very stable RNA which codes for
globin, (I)-collagen, 15-lipoxygenase or for tyrosine hydroxylase
(cf. Holcik et al., Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. USA 1997, 94: 2410 to
2414). Such stabilizing sequences can of course be used
individually or in combination with one another and also in
combination with other stabilizing sequences known to a person
skilled in the art. The at least one (m)RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention is
therefore preferably present as globin UTR (untranslated
regions)-stabilized RNA, in particular as globin UTR-stabilized
RNA.
[0573] Nevertheless, substitutions, additions or eliminations of
bases are preferably carried out with the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention,
using a DNA matrix for preparation of the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention by
techniques of the well known site directed mutagenesis or with an
oligonucleotide ligation strategy (see e.g. Maniatis et al,
Molecular Cloning: A Laboratory Manual, Cold Spring Harbor
Laboratory Press, 3rd ed., Cold Spring Harbor, NY, 2001). In such a
process, for preparation of the at least one (m)RNA, a
corresponding DNA molecule may be transcribed in vitro. This DNA
matrix preferably comprises a suitable promoter, e.g. a T7 or SP6
promoter, for in vitro transcription, which is followed by the
desired nucleotide sequence for the at least one RNA to be prepared
and a termination signal for in vitro transcription. The DNA
molecule, which forms the matrix of an at least one RNA of
interest, may be prepared by fermentative proliferation and
subsequent isolation as part of a plasmid which can be replicated
in bacteria. Plasmids which may be mentioned as suitable for the
present invention are e.g. the plasmids pT7Ts (GenBank accession
number U26404; Lai et al, Development 1995, 121: 2349 to 2360),
pGEM.RTM. series, e.g. pGEM.RTM.-1 (GenBank accession number
X65300; from Promega) and pSP64 (GenBank accession number X65327);
cf. also Mezei and Storts, Purification of PCR Products, in:
Griffin and Griffin (ed.), PCR Technology: Current Innovation, CRC
Press, Boca Raton, Fla., 2001.
[0574] The stabilization of the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention can
likewise by carried out by associating or complexing the at least
one RNA with, or binding it to, a cationic compound, in particular
a polycationic compound, for example a (poly)cationic peptide or
protein. In particular the use of protamine, nucleoline, spermin or
spermidine as the polycationic, nucleic-acid-binding protein to the
RNA is particularly effective. Furthermore, the use of other
cationic peptides or proteins, such as poly-L-lysine or histones,
is likewise possible. This procedure for stabilizing RNA is
described in EP-A-1083232, the disclosure of which is incorporated
by reference into the present invention in its entirety. Further
preferred cationic substances which can be used for stabilizing the
RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the present
invention include cationic polysaccharides, for example chitosan,
polybrene, polyethyleneimine (PEI) or poly-L-lysine (PLL), etc.
Association or complexing of the at least one RNA of the inventive
active (immunostimulatory) composition with cationic compounds,
e.g. cationic proteins or cationic lipids, e.g. oligofectamine as a
lipid based complexation reagent) preferably increases the transfer
of the at least one RNA present as a pharmaceutically active
component into the cells to be treated or into the organism to be
treated. It is also referred to the disclosure herein with regard
to the stabilizing effect for the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition of the present invention by
complexation, which holds for the stabilization of RNA as well.
[0575] According to another particularly preferred embodiment, the
at least RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition may
additionally or alternatively encode a secretory signal peptide.
Such signal peptides are sequences, which typically exhibit a
length of about 15 to 30 amino acids and are preferably located at
the N-terminus of the encoded peptide, without being limited
thereto. Signal peptides as defined herein preferably allow the
transport of the antigen, antigenic protein or antigenic peptide as
encoded by the at least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition into a defined cellular compartment, preferably the
cell surface, the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or the
endosomal-lysosomal compartment. Examples of secretory signal
peptide sequences as defined herein include, without being limited
thereto, signal sequences of classical or non-classical
MHC-molecules (e.g. signal sequences of MHC I and II molecules,
e.g. of the MHC class I molecule HLA-A*0201), signal sequences of
cytokines or immunoglobulines as defined herein, signal sequences
of the invariant chain of immunoglobulines or antibodies as defined
herein, signal sequences of Lampl, Tapasin, Erp57, Calretikulin,
Calnexin, and further membrane associated proteins or of proteins
associated with the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) or the
endosomal-lysosomal compartment. Particularly preferably, signal
sequences of MHC class I molecule HLA-A*0201 may be used according
to the present invention.
[0576] Any of the above modifications may be applied to the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition of the
present invention, and further to any (m)RNA as used in the context
of the present invention and may be, if suitable or necessary, be
combined with each other in any combination, provided, these
combinations of modifications do not interfere with each other in
the respective at least one RNA. A person skilled in the art will
be able to take his choice accordingly.
[0577] According to another embodiment, the active
(immunostimulatory) composition according to the invention may
comprise an adjuvant. In this context, an adjuvant may be
understood as any compound, which is suitable to support
administration and delivery of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention. Furthermore, such an
adjuvant may, without being bound thereto, initiate or increase an
immune response of the innate immune system, i.e. a non-specific
immune response. With other words, when administered, the active
(immunostimulatory) composition according to the invention
typically initiates an adaptive immune response due to the at least
two antigens encoded by the at least one RNA contained in the
inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition. Additionally, the
active (immunostimulatory) composition according to the invention
may generate an (supportive) innate immune response due to addition
of an adjuvant as defined herein to the active (immunostimulatory)
composition according to the invention. Such an adjuvant may be
selected from any adjuvant known to a skilled person and suitable
for the present case, i.e. supporting the induction of an immune
response in a mammal. Preferably, the adjuvant may be selected from
the group consisting of, without being limited thereto, TDM, MDP,
muramyl dipeptide, pluronics, alum solution, aluminium hydroxide,
ADJUMER.TM. (polyphosphazene); aluminium phosphate gel; glucans
from algae; algammulin; aluminium hydroxide gel (alum); highly
protein-adsorbing aluminium hydroxide gel; low viscosity aluminium
hydroxide gel; AF or SPT (emulsion of squalane (5%), Tween 80
(0.2%), Pluronic L121 (1.25%), phosphate-buffered saline, pH 7.4);
AVRIDINE.TM. (propanediamine); BAY R1005.TM.
((N-(2-deoxy-2-L-leucylamino-b-D-glucopyranosyl)-N-octadecyl-do-
decanoyl-amide hydroacetate); CALCITRIOL.TM.
(1-alpha,25-dihydroxy-vitamin D3); calcium phosphate gel; CAPTM
(calcium phosphate nanoparticles); cholera holotoxin,
cholera-toxin-A1-protein-A-D-fragment fusion protein, sub-unit B of
the cholera toxin; CRL 1005 (block copolymer P1205);
cytokine-containing liposomes; DDA (dimethyldioctadecylammonium
bromide); DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone); DMPC
(dimyristoylphosphatidylcholine); DMPG
(dimyristoylphosphatidylglycerol); DOC/alum complex (deoxycholic
acid sodium salt); Freund's complete adjuvant; Freund's incomplete
adjuvant; gamma inulin; Gerbu adjuvant (mixture of: i)
N-acetylglucosaminyl-(P1-4)-N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-glutamine
(GMDP), ii) dimethyldioctadecylammonium chloride (DDA), iii)
zinc-L-proline salt complex (ZnPro-8); GM-CSF); GMDP
(N-acetylglucosaminyl-(b1-4)-N-acetylmuramyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutamine);
imiquimod (1-(2-methypropyl)-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinoline-4-amine);
ImmTher.TM.
(N-acetylglucosaminyl-N-acetylmuramyl-L-Ala-D-isoGlu-L-Ala-glycerol
dipalmitate); DRVs (immunoliposomes prepared from
dehydration-rehydration vesicles); interferon-gamma;
interleukin-1beta; interleukin-2; interleukin-7; interleukin-12;
ISCOMS.TM.; ISCOPREP 7.0.3..TM.; liposomes; LOXORIBINE.TM.
(7-allyl-8-oxoguanosine); LT oral adjuvant (E. coli labile
enterotoxin-protoxin); microspheres and microparticles of any
composition; MF59.TM.; (squalene-water emulsion); MONTANIDE ISA
51.TM. (purified incomplete Freund's adjuvant); MONTANIDE ISA
720.TM. (metabolizable oil adjuvant); MPL.TM.
(3-Q-desacyl-4'-monophosphoryl lipid A); MTP-PE and MTP-PE
liposomes
((N-acetyl-L-alanyl-D-isoglutaminyl-L-alanine-2-(1,2-dipalmitoyl-sn-glyce-
ro-3-(hydroxyphosphoryloxy))-ethylamide, monosodium salt);
MURAMETIDE.TM. (Nac-Mur-L-Ala-D-Gln-OCH.sub.3); MURAPALMITINE.TM.
and D-MURAPALMITINE.TM.
(Nac-Mur-L-Thr-D-isoGln-sn-glyceroldipalmitoyl); NAGO
(neuraminidase-galactose oxidase); nanospheres or nanoparticles of
any composition; NISVs (non-ionic surfactant vesicles); PLEURAN.TM.
(.beta.-glucan); PLGA, PGA and PLA (homo- and co-polymers of lactic
acid and glycolic acid; microspheres/nanospheres); PLURONIC
L121.TM.; PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate); PODDS.TM. (proteinoid
microspheres); polyethylene carbamate derivatives; poly-rA: poly-rU
(polyadenylic acid-polyuridylic acid complex); polysorbate 80
(Tween 80); protein cochleates (Avanti Polar Lipids, Inc.,
Alabaster, Ala.); STIMULON.TM. (QS-21); Quil-A (Quil-A saponin);
S-28463
(4-amino-otec-dimethyl-2-ethoxymethyl-1H-imidazo[4,5-c]quinoline-1-ethano-
l); SAF-1.TM. ("Syntex adjuvant formulation"); Sendai
proteoliposomes and Sendai-containing lipid matrices; Span-85
(sorbitan trioleate); Specol (emulsion of Marcol 52, Span 85 and
Tween 85); squalene or Robane.RTM.
(2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyltetracosan and
2,6,10,15,19,23-hexamethyl-2,6,10,14,18,22-tetracosahexane);
stearyltyrosine(octadecyltyrosine hydrochloride); Theramid.RTM.
(N-acetylglucosaminyl-N-acetylmuramyl-L-Ala-D-isoGlu-L-Ala-dipalmitoxypro-
pylamide); Theronyl-MDP (Termurtide.TM. or [thr 1]-MDP;
N-acetylmuramyl-L-threonyl-D-isoglutamine); Ty particles (Ty-VLPs
or virus-like particles); Walter-Reed liposomes (liposomes
containing lipid A adsorbed on aluminium hydroxide), and
lipopeptides, including Pam3Cys, in particular aluminium salts,
such as Adju-phos, Alhydrogel, Rehydragel; emulsions, including
CFA, SAF, IFA, MF59, Provax, TiterMax, Montanide, Vaxfectin;
copolymers, including Optivax (CRL1005), L121, Poloaxmer4010),
etc.; liposomes, including Stealth, cochleates, including BIORAL;
plant derived adjuvants, including QS21, Quil A, Iscomatrix, ISCOM;
adjuvants suitable for costimulation including Tomatine,
biopolymers, including PLG, PMM, Inulin,; microbe derived
adjuvants, including Romurtide, DETOX, MPL, CWS, Mannose, CpG
nucleic acid sequences, CpG7909, ligands of human TLR 1-10, ligands
of murine TLR 1-13, ISS-1018, IC31, Imidazoquinolines, Ampligen,
Ribi529, IMOxine, IRIVs, VLPs, cholera toxin, heat-labile toxin,
Pam3Cys, Flagellin, GPI anchor, LNFPIII/Lewis X, antimicrobial
peptides, UC-1V150, RSV fusion protein, cdiGMP; and adjuvants
suitable as antagonists including CGRP neuropeptide.
[0578] Suitable adjuvants may also be selected from cationic or
polycationic compounds wherein the adjuvant is preferably prepared
upon complexing the at least one RNA of the inventive active
(immmunostimulatory composition) with the cationic or polycationic
compound. Association or complexing the RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition with cationic or polycationic
compounds as defined herein preferably provides adjuvant properties
and confers a stabilizing effect to the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition. Particularly such
preferred, such cationic or polycationic compounds are selected
from cationic or polycationic peptides or proteins, including
protamine, nucleoline, spermin or spermidine, or other cationic
peptides or proteins, such as poly-L-lysine (PLL), poly-arginine,
basic polypeptides, cell penetrating peptides (CPPs), including
HIV-binding peptides, Tat, HIV-1 Tat (HIV), Tat-derived peptides,
Penetratin, VP22 derived or analog peptides, HSV VP22 (Herpes
simplex), MAP, KALA or protein transduction domains (PTDs, PpT620,
prolin-rich peptides, arginine-rich peptides, lysine-rich peptides,
MPG-peptide(s), Pep-1, L-oligomers, Calcitonin peptide(s),
Antennapedia-derived peptides (particularly from Drosophila
antennapedia), pAntp, plsl, FGF, Lactoferrin, Transportan,
Buforin-2, Bac715-24, SynB, SynB(1), pVEC, hCT-derived peptides,
SAP, protamine, spermine, spermidine, or histones. Further
preferred cationic or polycationic compounds may include cationic
polysaccharides, for example chitosan, polybrene, cationic
polymers, e.g. polyethyleneimine (PEI), cationic lipids, e.g.
DOTMA: [1-(2,3-sioleyloxy)propyl)]-N,N,N-trimethylammonium
chloride, DMRIE, di-C14-amidine, DOTIM, SAINT, DC-Chol, BGTC, CTAP,
DOPC, DODAP, DOPE: Dioleyl phosphatidylethanol-amine, DOSPA, DODAB,
DOIC, DMEPC, DOGS: Dioctadecylamidoglicylspermin, DIMRI:
Dimyristo-oxypropyl dimethyl hydroxyethyl ammonium bromide, DOTAP:
dioleoyloxy-3-(trimethylammonio)propane, DC-6-14:
O,O-ditetradecanoyl-N-(.alpha.-trimethylammonioacetyl)diethanolamine
chloride, CLIP1:
rac-[(2,3-dioctadecyloxypropyl)(2-hydroxyethyl)]-dimethylammonium
chloride, CLIP6:
rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxymethyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylammonium,
CLIP9:
rac-[2(2,3-dihexadecyloxypropyl-oxysuccinyloxy)ethyl]-trimethylamm-
onium, oligofectamine, or cationic or polycationic polymers, e.g.
modified polyaminoacids, such as .beta.-aminoacid-polymers or
reversed polyamides, etc., modified polyethylenes, such as PVP
(poly(N-ethyl-4-vinylpyridinium bromide)), etc., modified
acrylates, such as pDMAEMA (poly(dimethylaminoethyl
methylacrylate)), etc., modified Amidoamines such as pAMAM
(poly(amidoamine)), etc., modified polybetaaminoester (PBAE), such
as diamine end modified 1,4 butanediol
diacrylate-co-5-amino-1-pentanol polymers, etc., dendrimers, such
as polypropylamine dendrimers or pAMAM based dendrimers, etc.,
polyimine(s), such as PEI: poly(ethyleneimine),
poly(propyleneimine), etc., polyallylamine, sugar backbone based
polymers, such as cyclodextrin based polymers, dextran based
polymers, Chitosan, etc., silan backbone based polymers, such as
PMOXA-PDMS copolymers, etc., Blockpolymers consisting of a
combination of one or more cationic blocks (e.g. selected of a
cationic polymer as mentioned above) and of one or more
hydrophilic- or hydrophobic blocks (e.g polyethyleneglycole);
etc.
[0579] Additionally, preferred cationic or polycationic proteins or
peptides, which can be used as an adjuvant by complexing the at
least one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition, may be
selected from following proteins or peptides having the following
total formula (I):
(Arg).sub.l;(Lys).sub.m;(His).sub.n;(Orn).sub.o;(Xaa).sub.x,
wherein l+m+n+o+x=8-15, and l, m, n, or o independently of each
other may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9,
10, 11, 12, 13, 14 or 15, provided that the overall content of Arg,
Lys, His and Orn represents at least 50% of all amino acids of the
oligopeptide; and Xaa may be any amino acid selected from native
(=naturally occurring) or non-native amino acids except of Arg,
Lys, His or Orn; and x may be any number selected from 0, 1, 2, 3
or 4, provided, that the overall content of Xaa does not exceed 50%
of all amino acids of the oligopeptide. Particularly preferred
oligoarginines in this context are e.g. Arg.sub.7, Arg.sub.8,
Arg.sub.9, Arg.sub.7, H.sub.3R.sub.9, R.sub.9H.sub.3,
H.sub.3R.sub.9H.sub.3, YSSR.sub.9SSY, (RKH).sub.4, Y(RKH).sub.2R,
etc.
[0580] Suitable adjuvants may furthermore be selected from nucleic
acids having the formula (II): G.sub.lX.sub.mG.sub.n, wherein: G is
guanosine, uracil or an analogue of guanosine or uracil; X is
guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or an analogue of
the above-mentioned nucleotides; l is an integer from 1 to 40,
wherein when l=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when l>1
at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue
thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein when m=3 X is
uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3 successive
uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer from 1 to 40,
wherein when n=1 G is guanosine or an analogue thereof, when n>1
at least 50% of the nucleotides are guanosine or an analogue
thereof.
[0581] Other suitable adjuvants may furthermore be selected from
nucleic acids having the formula (III): C.sub.lX.sub.mC.sub.n,
wherein: C is cytosine, uracil or an analogue of cytosine or
uracil; X is guanosine, uracil, adenosine, thymidine, cytosine or
an analogue of the above-mentioned nucleotides; l is an integer
from 1 to 40, wherein when l=1 C is cytosine or an analogue
thereof, when l>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine
or an analogue thereof; m is an integer and is at least 3; wherein
when m=3 X is uracil or an analogue thereof, when m>3 at least 3
successive uracils or analogues of uracil occur; n is an integer
from 1 to 40, wherein when n=1 C is cytosine or an analogue
thereof, when n>1 at least 50% of the nucleotides are cytosine
or an analogue thereof.
[0582] According to one preferred embodiment, the present invention
may furthermore provide a vaccine containing the active
(immunostimulatory) composition according to the invention. The
inventive vaccine may additionally contain a pharmaceutically
acceptable carrier and/or further auxiliary substances and
additives and/or adjuvants. According to a particularly preferred
embodiment, the antigens encoded by the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition, contained in the inventive
vaccine, are selected from the above mentioned groups or subgroups.
According to an even more preferred embodiment, the protein
antigens are selected from any of the antigens of the following
subgroup comprising NY-ESO1[accession number NM.sub.--001327],
hTERT [accession number NM.sub.--198253], survivin [accession
number AF077350], 5T4 [accession number NM.sub.--006670] and WT1
[accession number NM.sub.--000378], and/or from any of the antigens
of the following subgroup comprising MAGE-C1 and MAGE-C2, as
defined herein, and/or from any of the antigens of the following
subgroup comprising MAGE-A2 and MAGE-A3, as defined herein.
[0583] The inventive vaccine typically comprises a safe and
effective amount of the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition as defined above encoding at least
two antigens as defined above, more preferably encoding at least
two antigens selected from any of the above groups or subgroups,
most preferably in any of the indicated combinations. As used
herein, "safe and effective amount" means an amount of the at least
one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition in the
vaccine as defined above, that is sufficient to significantly
induce a positive modification of lung cancer, preferably of a
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) related condition to be treated,
more preferably of conditions related to the three main sub-types
of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) including, without being
restricted thereto, squamous cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma
and large cell lung carcinoma. At the same time, however, a "safe
and effective amount" is small enough to avoid serious
side-effects, that is to say to permit a sensible relationship
between advantage and risk. The determination of these limits
typically lies within the scope of sensible medical judgment. In
relation to the inventive vaccine, the expression "safe and
effective amount" preferably means an amount of the RNA (and thus
of the encoded at least two antigens) that is suitable for
stimulating the adaptive immune system in such a manner that no
excessive or damaging immune reactions are achieved but,
preferably, also no such immune reactions below a measurable level.
Such a "safe and effective amount" of the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition in the vaccine as defined
above may furthermore be selected in dependence of the type of RNA,
e.g. monocistronic, bi- or even multicistronic RNA, since a bi- or
even multicistronic RNA may lead to a significantly higher
expression of the encoded antigen(s) than use of an equal amount of
a monocistronic RNA. A "safe and effective amount" of the at least
one RNA of the active (immunostimulatory) composition as defined
above, which is contained in the inventive vaccine, will
furthermore vary in connection with the particular condition to be
treated and also with the age and physical condition of the patient
to be treated, the severity of the condition, the duration of the
treatment, the nature of the accompanying therapy, of the
particular pharmaceutically acceptable carrier used, and similar
factors, within the knowledge and experience of the accompanying
doctor. The vaccine according to the invention can be used
according to the invention for human and also for veterinary
medical purposes, as a pharmaceutical composition or as a
vaccine.
[0584] The vaccine according to the invention typically contains a
pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. The expression
"pharmaceutically acceptable carrier" as used herein preferably
includes the liquid or non-liquid basis of the inventive vaccine.
If the inventive vaccine is provided in liquid form, the carrier
will typically be pyrogen-free water; isotonic saline or buffered
(aqueous) solutions, e.g. phosphate-, citrate-buffered solutions,
etc. Particularly for injection of the inventive vaccine, water or
preferably a buffer, more preferably an aqueous buffer, may be
used, containing a sodium salt, preferably at least 50 mM of a
sodium salt, a calcium salt, preferably at least 0.01 mM of a
calcium salt, and optionally a potassium salt, preferably at least
3 mM of a potassium salt. According to a preferred embodiment, the
sodium, calcium and, optionally, potassium salts may occur in the
form of their halogenides, e.g. chlorides, iodides, or bromides, in
the form of their hydroxides, carbonates, hydrogen carbonates, or
sulfates, etc. Without being limited thereto, examples of sodium
salts include e.g. NaCl, NaI, NaBr, Na.sub.2CO.sub.3, NaHCO.sub.3,
Na.sub.2SO.sub.4, examples of the optional potassium salts include
e.g. KCl, KI, KBr, K.sub.2CO.sub.3, KHCO.sub.3, K.sub.2SO.sub.4,
and examples of calcium salts include e.g. CaCl.sub.2, CaI.sub.2,
CaBr.sub.2, CaCO.sub.3, CaSO.sub.4, Ca(OH).sub.2. Furthermore,
organic anions of the aforementioned cations may be contained in
the buffer. According to a more preferred embodiment, the buffer
suitable for injection purposes as defined above, may contain salts
selected from sodium chloride (NaCl), calcium chloride (CaCl.sub.2)
and optionally potassium chloride (KCl), wherein further anions may
be present additional to the chlorides. CaCl.sub.2 can also be
replaced by another salt like KCl. Typically, the salts in the
injection buffer are present in a concentration of at least 50 mM
sodium chloride (NaCl), at least 3 mM potassium chloride (KCl) and
at least 0.01 mM calcium chloride (CaCl.sub.2). The injection
buffer may be hypertonic, isotonic or hypotonic with reference to
the specific reference medium, i.e. the buffer may have a higher,
identical or lower salt content with reference to the specific
reference medium, wherein preferably such concentrations of the
afore mentioned salts may be used, which do not lead to damage of
cells due to osmosis or other concentration effects. Reference
media are e.g. in "in vivo" methods occurring liquids such as
blood, lymph, cytosolic liquids, or other body liquids, or e.g.
liquids, which may be used as reference media in "in vitro"
methods, such as common buffers or liquids. Such common buffers or
liquids are known to a skilled person. Ringer-Lactate solution is
particularly preferred as a liquid basis.
[0585] However, one or more compatible solid or liquid fillers or
diluents or encapsulating compounds may be used as well, which are
suitable for administration to a person. The term "compatible" as
used herein means that the constituents of the inventive vaccine
are capable of being mixed with the at least one RNA of the active
(immunostimulatory) composition, encoding at least two antigens as
defined above, in such a manner that no interaction occurs which
would substantially reduce the pharmaceutical effectiveness of the
inventive vaccine under typical use conditions. Pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers, fillers and diluents must, of course, have
sufficiently high purity and sufficiently low toxicity to make them
suitable for administration to a person to be treated. Some
examples of compounds which can be used as pharmaceutically
acceptable carriers, fillers or constituents thereof are sugars,
such as, for example, lactose, glucose and sucrose; starches, such
as, for example, corn starch or potato starch; cellulose and its
derivatives, such as, for example, sodium carboxymethylcellulose,
ethylcellulose, cellulose acetate; powdered tragacanth; malt;
gelatin; tallow; solid glidants, such as, for example, stearic
acid, magnesium stearate; calcium sulfate; vegetable oils, such as,
for example, groundnut oil, cottonseed oil, sesame oil, olive oil,
corn oil and oil from theobroma; polyols, such as, for example,
polypropylene glycol, glycerol, sorbitol, mannitol and polyethylene
glycol; alginic acid.
[0586] The choice of a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier is
determined in principle by the manner in which the inventive
vaccine is administered. The inventive vaccine can be administered,
for example, systemically or locally. Routes for systemic
administration in general include, for example, transdermal, oral,
parenteral routes, including subcutaneous, intravenous,
intramuscular, intraarterial, intradermal and intraperitoneal
injections and/or intranasal administration routes. Routes for
local administration in general include, for example, topical
administration routes but also intradermal, transdermal,
subcutaneous, or intramuscular injections or intralesional,
intracranial, intrapulmonal, intracardial, and sublingual
injections. More preferably, vaccines may be administered by an
intradermal, subcutaneous, or intramuscular route.
Compositions/vaccines are therefore preferably formulated in liquid
or solid form. The suitable amount of the inventive vaccine to be
administered can be determined by routine experiments with animal
models. Such models include, without implying any limitation,
rabbit, sheep, mouse, rat, dog and non-human primate models.
Preferred unit dose forms for injection include sterile solutions
of water, physiological saline or mixtures thereof. The pH of such
solutions should be adjusted to about 7.4. Suitable carriers for
injection include hydrogels, devices for controlled or delayed
release, polylactic acid and collagen matrices. Suitable
pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for topical application
include those which are suitable for use in lotions, creams, gels
and the like. If the inventive vaccine is to be administered
perorally, tablets, capsules and the like are the preferred unit
dose form. The pharmaceutically acceptable carriers for the
preparation of unit dose forms which can be used for oral
administration are well known in the prior art. The choice thereof
will depend on secondary considerations such as taste, costs and
storability, which are not critical for the purposes of the present
invention, and can be made without difficulty by a person skilled
in the art.
[0587] The inventive vaccine can additionally contain one or more
auxiliary substances in order to further increase the
immunogenicity. A synergistic action of the at least one RNA of the
active (immunostimulatory) composition as defined above and of an
auxiliary substance, which may be optionally also contained in the
inventive vaccine as described above, is preferably achieved
thereby. Depending on the various types of auxiliary substances,
various mechanisms can come into consideration in this respect. For
example, compounds that permit the maturation of dendritic cells
(DCs), for example lipopolysaccharides, TNF-alpha or CD40 ligand,
form a first class of suitable auxiliary substances. In general, it
is possible to use as auxiliary substance any agent that influences
the immune system in the manner of a "danger signal" (LPS, GP96,
etc.) or cytokines, such as GM-CFS, which allow an immune response
produced by the immune-stimulating adjuvant according to the
invention to be enhanced and/or influenced in a targeted manner.
Particularly preferred auxiliary substances are cytokines, such as
monokines, lymphokines, interleukins or chemokines,
that--additional to induction of the adaptive immune response by
the encoded at least two antigens--promote the innate immune
response, such as IL-1, IL-2, IL-3, IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-7, IL-8,
IL-9, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-14, IL-15, IL-16, IL-17, IL-18,
IL-19, IL-20, IL-21, IL-22, IL-23, IL-24, IL-25, IL-26, IL-27,
IL-28, IL-29, IL-30,IL-31, IL-32, IL-33, INF-alpha, IFN-beta,
INF-gamma, GM-CSF, G-CSF, M-CSF, LT-beta or TNF-alpha, growth
factors, such as hGH.
[0588] Further additives which may be included in the inventive
vaccine are emulsifiers, such as, for example, Tween.RTM.; wetting
agents, such as, for example, sodium lauryl sulfate; colouring
agents; taste-imparting agents, pharmaceutical carriers;
tablet-forming agents; stabilizers; antioxidants;
preservatives.
[0589] The inventive vaccine can also additionally contain any
further compound, which is known to be immune-stimulating due to
its binding affinity (as ligands) to human Toll-like receptors
TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, or due
to its binding affinity (as ligands) to murine Toll-like receptors
TLR1, TLR2, TLR3, TLR4, TLR5, TLR6, TLR7, TLR8, TLR9, TLR10, TLR11,
TLR12 or TLR13.
[0590] Another class of compounds, which may be added to an
inventive vaccine in this context, may be CpG nucleic acids, in
particular CpG-RNA or CpG-DNA. A CpG-RNA or CpG-DNA can be a
single-stranded CpG-DNA (ss CpG-DNA), a double-stranded CpG-DNA
(dsDNA), a single-stranded CpG-RNA (ss CpG-RNA) or a
double-stranded CpG-RNA (ds CpG-RNA). The CpG nucleic acid is
preferably in the form of CpG-RNA, more preferably in the form of
single-stranded CpG-RNA (ss CpG-RNA). The CpG nucleic acid
preferably contains at least one or more (mitogenic)
cytosine/guanine dinucleotide sequence(s) (CpG motif(s)). According
to a first preferred alternative, at least one CpG motif contained
in these sequences, that is to say the C (cytosine) and the G
(guanine) of the CpG motif, is unmethylated. All further cytosines
or guanines optionally contained in these sequences can be either
methylated or unmethylated. According to a further preferred
alternative, however, the C (cytosine) and the G (guanine) of the
CpG motif can also be present in methylated form.
[0591] According to a further preferred object of the present
invention, the inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition or
the at least one RNA encoding at least two (preferably) different
antigens as defined herein, may be used (for the preparation of a
vaccine according to the present invention) for the treatment of
lung cancer, preferably of a non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
related condition, more preferably of conditions related to the
three main sub-types of non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
including, without being restricted thereto, squamous cell lung
carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell lung carcinoma.
[0592] According to a further preferred object of the present
invention, the inventive vaccine or the at least one RNA encoding
at least two (preferably) different antigens as defined herein may
be used for the treatment of lung cancer, preferably of a
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) related condition, more
preferably of conditions related to the three main sub-types of
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) including, without being
restricted thereto, squamous cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma
and large cell lung carcinoma.
[0593] In this context also included in the present invention are
methods of treating lung cancer, preferably of a non-small-cell
lung cancer (NSCLC) related condition, more preferably of
conditions related to the three main sub-types of non-small-cell
lung cancer (NSCLC) including, without being restricted thereto,
squamous cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma and large cell lung
carcinoma, by administering to a patient in need thereof a
pharmaceutically effective amount of an inventive vaccine, or a
pharmaceutically effective amount of an inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition. Such a method typically comprises
an optional first step of preparing the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition, or the inventive vaccine, and a
second step, comprising administering (a pharmaceutically effective
amount of) said inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition or
said inventive vaccine to a patient in need thereof. A patient in
need thereof will be typically selected from any mammal. In the
context of the present invention, a mammal is preferably selected
from the group comprising, without being limited thereto, e.g.
goat, cattle, swine, dog, cat, donkey, monkey, ape, a rodent such
as a mouse, hamster, rabbit and, particularly, human, wherein the
mammal typically suffers from lung cancer, preferably of a
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) related condition, more
preferably of conditions related to the three main sub-types of
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) including, without being
restricted thereto, squamous cell lung carcinoma, adenocarcinoma
and large cell lung carcinoma or a condition related thereto.
[0594] The invention relates also to the use of the inventive
active (immunostimulatory) composition or the at least one RNA
encoding at least two (preferably) different antigens as defined
herein (for the preparation of an inventive vaccine), preferably
for eliciting an immune response in a mammal, preferably for the
treatment of lung cancer, more preferably for the treatment of a
non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) related condition as defined
herein.
[0595] Similarly, the invention also relates also to the use of the
inventive vaccine per se or the at least one RNA encoding at least
two (preferably) different antigens as defined herein for eliciting
an adaptive immune response in a mammal, preferably for the
treatment of lung cancer, more preferably of a non-small-cell lung
cancer (NSCLC) related condition as defined herein.
[0596] Prevention or treatment of lung cancer in a patient in need
thereof, preferably of a non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) related
condition as defined herein, may be carried out by administering
the inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition and/or the
inventive vaccine at once or in a time staggered manner, e.g. as a
kit of parts, each part containing at least one preferably
different antigen. For administration, preferably any of the
administration routes may be used as defined above. E.g., one may
treat lung cancer, preferably a non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC)
related condition as defined herein, by inducing or enhancing an
adaptive immune response on the basis of at least two (specifically
selected) antigens encoded by the at least one RNA of the inventive
active (immunostimulatory) composition. Administering of the
inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition and/or the
inventive vaccine may then occur prior, concurrent and/or
subsequent to administering another inventive inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition and/or inventive vaccine as defined
herein which may contain another combination of RNAs encoding
different antigens, wherein each antigen encoded by the at least
one RNA of the inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition may
preferably be suitable for the therapy of lung cancer, more
preferably for the treatment of a non-small-cell lung cancer
(NSCLC) related condition as defined herein. In this context, a
therapy as defined herein may also comprise the modulation of a
disease associated to lung cancer, preferably a disease associated
to non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) as defined herein.
[0597] According to one further embodiment, the present invention
furthermore comprises the use of the active (immunostimulatory)
composition (for the preparation of an (inventive) vaccine) for
modulating, preferably to induce or enhance, an immune response in
a mammal as defined above, more preferably to support the treatment
of lung cancer, especially NSCLC as defined herein. In this
context, support of the treatment of lung cancer, especially NSCLC
as defined herein, may be any combination of a conventional cancer
therapy for lung cancer, especially for NSCLC as defined herein,
such as radiation therapy, chemotherapy, proton therapy, hormonal
therapy, antibody therapy, adjuvant therapies, therapies including
other vaccines than an inventive vaccine, therapies including
kinase inhibitors or small nucleotides, etc., or some combination
of these, and a therapy using the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition or the inventive vaccine as defined
herein. Support of the treatment of lung cancer, especially NSCLC
as defined herein, may be also envisaged in any of the other
embodiments defined herein.
[0598] Administration of the inventive active (immunostimulatory)
composition or the at least one RNA encoding at least two
(preferably) different antigens as defined herein or the inventive
vaccine may be carried out in a time staggered treatment. A time
staggered treatment may be e.g. administration of the inventive
active (immunostimulatory) composition or the at least one RNA
encoding at least two (preferably) different antigens as defined
herein or the inventive vaccine prior, concurrent and/or subsequent
to a therapy of lung cancer, especially NSCLC, e.g. by
administration of the inventive active (immunostimulatory)
composition or vaccine prior, concurrent and/or subsequent to a
therapy or an administration of a therapeutic suitable for the
treatment of lung cancer, especially of NSCLC as defined herein.
Such time staggered treatment may be carried out using e.g. a kit,
preferably a kit of parts as defined below.
[0599] Time staggered treatment may additionally or alternatively
also comprise an administration of the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition or vaccine, preferably of the at
least one RNA encoding at least two (preferably different) antigens
as defined above, in a form, wherein the at least one RNA encoding
at least two (preferably different) antigens as defined above,
preferably forming part of the inventive active (immunostimulatory)
composition or vaccine, is administered parallel, prior or
subsequent to another at least one RNA encoding at least two
(preferably different) antigens as defined above, preferably
forming part of the same inventive active (immunostimulatory)
composition or vaccine. Preferably, the administration (of all at
least one RNAs) occurs within an hour, more preferably within 30
minutes, even more preferably within 15, 10, 5, 4, 3, or 2 minutes
or even within 1 minute. Such time staggered treatment may be
carried out using e.g. a kit, preferably a kit of parts as defined
below.
[0600] According to a final embodiment, the present invention also
provides kits, particularly kits of parts, comprising the active
inventive (immunostimulatory) composition, and/or the inventive
vaccine, and optionally technical instructions with information on
the administration and dosage of the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition and/or the inventive vaccine. The
technical instructions may contain information about administration
and dosage of the inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition,
and/or the inventive vaccine. Such kits, preferably kits of parts,
may applied e.g. for any of the above mentioned applications or
uses, preferably for the use of at least one inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition (for the preparation of an
inventive vaccine) for the treatment of lung cancer, especially of
NSCLC as defined herein. The kits may also be applied for the use
of at least one inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition
(for the preparation of an inventive vaccine) for the treatment of
lung cancer, preferably NSCLC as defined herein, wherein the
inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition) and/or the
vaccine due to the encoded at least two antigens may be capable to
induce or enhance an immune response in a mammal as defined above.
Such kits may further be applied for the use of at least one
inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition, (for the
preparation of an inventive vaccine) for modulating, preferably for
eliciting, e.g. to induce or enhance, an immune response in a
mammal as defined above, and preferably to support treatment of
lung cancer, especially of NSCLC. Kits of parts, as a special form
of kits, may contain one or more identical or different active
inventive (immunostimulatory) compositions and/or one or more
identical or different inventive vaccines in different parts of the
kit. Kits of parts may also contain an (e.g. one) active inventive
(immunostimulatory) composition, an (e.g. one) inventive vaccine
and/or the at least one RNA encoding at least one antigen as
defined above in different parts of the kit, e.g. each part of the
kit containing at least one RNA encoding a preferably different
antigen. Additionally, a combination of both types of kits of parts
is possible. Kits of parts may be used, e.g. when a time staggered
treatment is envisaged, e.g. when using different formulations
and/or increasing concentrations of the active inventive
(immunostimulatory) composition, the inventive vaccine and/or the
at least one RNA encoding at least one antigens as defined above
during the same treatment in vivo. Kits of parts may also be used
when a separated formulation or administration of the different
antigens of the inventive active (immunostimulatory) composition
(i.e. in parts) is envisaged or necessary (e.g. for technical
reasons), but e.g. a combined presence of the different antigens in
vivo is still to be achieved. Particularly kits of parts as a
special form of kits are envisaged, wherein each part of the kit
contains at least one preferably different antigen as defined
above, all parts of the kit of parts preferably forming the active
inventive (immunostimulatory) composition or the inventive vaccine
as defined herein. Such specific kits of parts may particularly be
suitable, e.g. if different antigens are formulated separately as
different parts of the kits, but are then administered at once
together or in a time staggered manner to the mammal in need
thereof. In the latter case administration of all of the different
parts of such a kit typically occurs within a short time limit,
such that all antigens are present in the mammal at about the same
time subsequent to administration of the last part of the kit. Any
of the above kits may be used in a treatment as defined above.
Advantages of the Present Invention
[0601] The present invention provides an active (immunostimulatory)
composition for the treatment of lung cancer, particularly of
non-small lung cancer (NSCLC), wherein the composition comprises at
least one RNA, preferably a mRNA, encoding at least two (preferably
different) antigens capable of eliciting an (adaptive) immune
response in a mammal wherein the antigens are selected from the
group consisting of hTERT, WT1, MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1,
Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin, MAGE-C1, or MAGE-C2. Such an
active (immunostimulatory) composition allows efficient treatment
of lung cancer, particularly of non-small lung cancer (NSCLC), or
supplementary treatment when using conventional therapies. It
furthermore avoids the problem of uncontrolled propagation of the
introduced DNA sequences by the use of RNA as an approach for
curative methods. RNA as used in the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition has additional considerable
advantages over DNA expression systems e.g. in immune response,
immunization or vaccination. These advantages include, inter alia,
that RNA introduced into a cell is not integrated into the genome.
This avoids the risk of mutation of this gene, which otherwise may
be completely or partially inactivated or give rise to
misinformation. It further avoids other risks of using DNA as an
agent to induce an immune response (e.g. as a vaccine) such as the
induction of pathogenic anti-DNA antibodies in the patient into
whom the foreign DNA has been introduced, so bringing about a
(possibly fatal) immune response. In contrast, no anti-RNA
antibodies have yet been detected.
FIGURES
[0602] The following Figures are intended to illustrate the
invention further. They are not intended to limit the subject
matter of the invention thereto.
[0603] FIG. 1: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 1) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MUC1 (HsMUC1--5xVNTR (The
wildtype sequence normally shows 40 tandem repeats. These were--for
cloning reasons--reduced to 5 tandem repeats). GC content: 61.27%;
length: 1668 bp).
[0604] FIG. 2: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
2) encoding MUC1 (HsMUC1 GC--5xVNTR, 1. GC maximized, 2. Codon
usage) GC content: 73.56%; length 1668 bp. Difference to basic
sequence (FIG. 1 (SEQ ID NO: 1)): 398/1668 bases=23.86%.
[0605] FIG. 3: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 3) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding 5T4 (Hs5T4 (trophoblast
glycoprotein TPBG); GC content: 61.60%; length: 1263 bp.
[0606] FIG. 4: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
4) encoding 5T4 (Hs5T4 GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon usage); GC
content: 70.47%; length 1263 bp. Difference to basic sequence (FIG.
3 (SEQ ID NO: 3)): 247/1263 Bases=19.56%.
[0607] FIG. 5: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 5) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding Her-2/neu (HsHer2/neu
(v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene homolog 2)); GC
content: 60.78% ; length: 3768 bp.
[0608] FIG. 6: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
6) encoding Her-2/neu (HsHer2/neu GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon
usage); GC content: 70.54%; length 3768 bp. Difference to basic
sequence (FIG. 5 (SEQ ID NO: 5)): 772/3768 Bases=20.49%.
[0609] FIG. 7: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 7) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding hTERT (HsTERT (telomerase
reverse transcriptase); GC Content: 66.08%; Length: 3399 bp.
[0610] FIG. 8: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
8) encoding hTERT (HsTERT GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon usage); GC
Content: 72.96%; Length 3399 bp, Difference to basic sequence (FIG.
7 (SEQ ID NO: 7)): 566/3399 Bases=16.65%.
[0611] FIG. 9: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 9) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding WT1 (HsWT1 (Wilms tumor
1)); GC Content: 61.78%; Length: 1554 bp.
[0612] FIG. 10: FIG. 10A) depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 10)
encoding WT1 (HsWT1 (Wilms tumor 1)) showing a sequence with a
reduced GC content in region 325-408 of said sequence compared to
the corresponding region of the wildtype sequence.
[0613] FIGS. 10B), C) and D) show a comparison of the corresponding
regions 325-408: [0614] in B) the wildtype sequence according to
FIG. 9 (SEQ ID NO: 9), [0615] in C) the GC-maximized sequence
according to FIG. 11 (SEQ ID NO: 11), and [0616] in D) the
GC-reduced sequence according to FIG. 10 (SEQ ID NO: 10), which all
show a different GC-pattern.
[0617] FIG. 11: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
11) encoding WT1 (HsWT1 GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon usage); GC
Content: 72.59%; Length 1554 bp. Difference to basic sequence (FIG.
9 (SEQ ID NO: 9)): 322/1554 Bases=20.72%.
[0618] FIG. 12: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 12) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding CEA (CEA (carcinoembryonic
antigen) HsCEACAM5); GC Content: 52.20%; Length: 2109 bp.
[0619] FIG. 13: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
13) encoding CEA (CEACAM5 GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon usage,
already in place); GC Content: 66.24%; Length 2109 bp. Difference
to basic sequence (FIG. 12 (SEQ ID NO: 12)): 495/2109
Bases=23.47%.
[0620] FIG. 14: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 14) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-A2 (HsMAGE-A2
(melanoma antigen family A, 2) HsMAGE-A2B). GC Content: 55.87%;
Length: 945 bp.
[0621] FIG. 15: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
15) encoding MAGE-A2 (HsMAGE-A2B GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon
usage); GC Content: 68.57%; Length 945 bp. Difference to basic
sequence (FIG. 14 (SEQ ID NO: 14)): 187/945 Bases=19.79%.
[0622] FIG. 16: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 16) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-A3 (MAGE-A3 (melanoma
antigen family A, 3) MAGE-A3) GC Content: 56.30%; Length: 945
bp.
[0623] FIG. 17: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
17) encoding MAGE-A3 (MAGE-A3 GC, 1.GC-maximized, 2. Codon usage,
already known GC-Enrichment); GC Content: 69.00%; Length 945 bp.
Difference to basic sequence (FIG. 16 (SEQ ID NO: 16)): 190/945
Bases=20.11%.
[0624] FIG. 18: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 18) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding Survivin (Survivin
(baculoviral IAP repeat-containing 5, BIRC5) HsSurvivin(wt)); GC
Content: 52.68%; Length: 429 bp.
[0625] FIG. 19: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
19) encoding Survivin (HsSurvivin(GC), 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon
Usage, already known GC-Enrichment); GC Content: 65.27%; Length:
429 bp. Difference to basic sequence (FIG. 18 (SEQ ID NO: 18)):
72/429 Bases=16.78%.
[0626] FIG. 20: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 20) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding NY-ESO-1 (Homo sapiens
NY-ESO-1 (NY-ESO-1(wt)); GC-Content 67.4%.
[0627] FIG. 21: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
21) encoding NY-ESO-1 (NY-ESO-1(GC), GC-Content 79.56%, (already
known GC-Enrichment); Difference to wt (FIG. 20 (SEQ ID NO: 20)):
112/543 Bases, 20.63%.
[0628] FIG. 22: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 22) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-C1 (HsMAGEC1
(melanoma antigen family C, 1) HsMAGEC1(wt)) GC Content: 51.86%;
Length: 3429 bp.
[0629] FIG. 23: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
23) encoding MAGE-C1 (HsMAGEC1(GC), 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon
usage). GC Content: 68.73%; Length 3429 bp. Difference to basic
sequence (FIG. 22 (SEQ ID NO: 22)): 964/3429 Bases=28.11%
[0630] FIG. 24: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
24) encoding a truncated MAGE-C1 (HsMAGEC1(GC), 1. GC-maximized, 2.
Codon usage). In comparison to the basic sequence (FIG. 22 (SEQ ID
NO: 22)) the repeat regions were deleted and the sequence according
to FIG. 24, following an initial start codon (ATG), starts at aa
613 of the GC-maximized wildtype sequence (FIG. 23 (SEQ ID NO:
23)).
[0631] FIG. 25: depicts a RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO: 25) (starting
sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-C2 (HsMAGE-C2
(melanoma antigen family C, 2)HsMAGE-C2); GC Content: 50.81%;
Length: 1122 bp.
[0632] FIG. 26: depicts a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence (SEQ ID NO:
26) encoding MAGE-C2 (HsMAGE-C2 GC, 1. GC-maximized, 2. Codon
usage); GC Content: 66.58%; Length 1122 bp, Difference to basic
sequence (FIG. 25 (SEQ ID NO: 25)): 264/1122 Bases=23.53%.
[0633] FIG. 27 shows the presence of IgG1 antibodies specific for
the tumour antigen NY-ESO-1 in mice which were vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA
coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2,
Survivin and 5T4) formulated with protamine at a mass ratio of
4:1.
[0634] FIG. 28: shows the presence of IgG2a antibodies specific for
the tumour antigen NY-ESO-1 in mice which were vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA
coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2,
Survivin and 5T4) formulated with protamine at a mass ratio of
4:1.
[0635] FIG. 29: shows the presence of IgG1 antibodies specific for
the tumour antigen MAGE-C1 in mice which were vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA
coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2,
Survivin and 5T4) formulated with protamine at a mass ratio of
4:1.
[0636] FIG. 30: shows the presence of IgG2a antibodies specific for
the tumour antigen MAGE-C1 in mice which were vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA
coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2,
Survivin and 5T4) formulated with protamine at a mass ratio of
4:1.
[0637] FIG. 31 shows the presence of IgG1 antibodies specific for
the tumour antigen MAGE-C2 in mice which were vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA
coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2,
Survivin and 5T4) formulated with protamine at a mass ratio of
4:1.
[0638] FIG. 32: shows the presence of IgG2a antibodies specific for
the tumour antigen MAGE-C2 in mice which were vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA
coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2,
Survivin and 5T4) formulated with protamine at a mass ratio of
4:1.
[0639] FIG. 33: shows the induction of antigen-specific
T-lymphocytes directed against the tumour antigen 5T4 in mice which
were vaccinated with the mRNA vaccine consisting of 5 components,
each containing mRNA coding for one NSCLC related antigen
(NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2, Survivin and 5T4) formulated with
protamine at a mass ratio of 4:1.
[0640] FIG. 34: shows the induction of antigen-specific
T-lymphocytes directed against the tumour antigen NY-ESO-1 in mice
which were vaccinated with the mRNA vaccine consisting of 5
components, each containing mRNA coding for one NSCLC related
antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2, Survivin and 5T4) formulated
with protamine at a mass ratio of 4:1.
EXAMPLES
[0641] The following examples are intended to illustrate the
invention further. They are not intended to limit the subject
matter of the invention thereto.
[0642] 1. Preparation of Encoding Plasmids:
[0643] In the following experiment DNA sequences, corresponding to
the respective mRNA sequences end encoding the antigens [0644]
hTERT, [0645] WT1, [0646] MAGE-A2, [0647] 5T4, [0648] MAGE-A3,
[0649] MUC1, [0650] Her-2/neu, [0651] NY-ESO-1, [0652] CEA, [0653]
Survivin, [0654] MAGE-C1, or [0655] MAGE-C2.
[0656] respectively, were prepared and used for in vitro
transcription and transfection experiments. Thereby, the DNA
sequence corresponding to the native antigen encoding mRNA was
increased in GC-content and codon-optimized. Then, the coding
sequence was transferred into an RNActive construct (CureVac GmbH,
Tubingen, Germany), which has been modified with a poly-A-tag and a
poly-C-tag (A70-C30).
[0657] 2. In Vitro Transcription:
[0658] Based on the recombinant plasmid DNA obtained in Example 1
the RNA sequences were prepared by in vitro transcription.
Therefore, the recombinant plasmid DNA was linearized and
subsequently in vitro transcribed using the T7 RNA polymerase. The
DNA template was then degraded by DNase I digestion, and the RNA
was recovered by LiCl precipitation and further cleaned by HPLC
extraction (PUREMessenger.RTM., CureVac GmbH, Tubingen,
Germany).
[0659] 3. Complexation With Protamine
[0660] For transfection of the RNA into cells and organisms the RNA
obtained by in vitro transcription was preferably complexed, more
preferably with protamine upon mixing the RNA with protamine.
[0661] 4. Vaccination Experiments
[0662] For vaccination the RNA obtained by the in vitro
transcription experiment as shown above (see Experiment 2) was
transfected into mice (Mice: C57 BL/6), preferably when complexed
with protamine (see Experiment 3). Transfection occurred in
different groups, wherein 5 mice (C57 BL/6) per group were
immunized intradermally 8 times within 3 weeks with the inventive
mRNA cocktail, i.e. a mixture of mRNA complexed with protamine,
wherein the RNA codes for at least two of the antigens hTERT, WT1,
MAGE-A2, 5T4, MAGE-A3, MUC1, Her-2/neu, NY-ESO-1, CEA, Survivin,
MAGE-C1, or MAGE-C2.
[0663] 5. Detection of an Antigen-Specific Immune Response (B-Cell
Immune Response):
[0664] Detection of an antigen-specific immune response (B-cell
immune response) was carried out by detecting antigen-specific
antibodies. Therefore, blood samples were taken from the vaccinated
mice one week after the last vaccination and sera were prepared.
MaxiSorb plates (Nalgene Nunc International) were coated with the
antigenic protein as encoded by the mRNA-Cocktail (0.5 .mu.g/well).
After blocking with 1.times. PBS containing 0.05% Tween-20 and 1%
BSA the plates were incubated with diluted mouse serum (1:30, 1:90,
1:270, 1:810). Subsequently a biotin-coupled secondary antibody
(Anti-mouse-IgG2a Pharmingen) was added. After washing, the plate
was incubated with Horseradish peroxidase-streptavidin and
subsequently the conversion of the ABTS substrate
(2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethyl-benzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) was
measured.
[0665] 6. Detection of an Antigen-Specific Cellular Immune Response
(T Cell Immune Response) by ELISPOT:
[0666] 2 weeks after the last vaccination mice were sacrificed, the
spleens were removed and the splenocytes were isolated. The
splenocytes were restimulated for 7 days in the presence of
peptides from the above antigens (peptide library) or coincubated
with dendritic cells generated from bone marrow cells of native
syngeneic mice, which are electroporated with RNA coding for the
antigen. To determine an antigen-specific cellular immune response
INFgamma secretion was measured after re-stimulation. For detection
of INFgamma a coat multiscreen plate (Millipore) was incubated
overnight with coating buffer 0.1 M carbonate-bicarbonate buffer pH
9.6, 10.59 g/l Na.sub.2CO.sub.3, 8.4 g/l NaHCO.sub.3) comprising
antibody against INF.gamma. (BD Pharmingen, Heidelberg, Germany).
Stimulators and effector cells were incubated together in the plate
in the ratio of 1:20 for 24 h. The plate was washed with 1.times.
PBS and incubated with a biotin-coupled secondary antibody. After
washing with 1.times.PBS/0.05% Tween-20 the substrate
(5-Bromo-4-Cloro-3-Indolyl Phosphate/Nitro Blue Tetrazolium Liquid
Substrate System from Sigma Aldrich, Taufkirchen, Germany) was
added to the plate and the conversion of the substrate could be
detected visually.
[0667] 7. Tumor Challenge:
[0668] Immunization:
[0669] One week after the last immunization 1 Mio B16 melanoma
cells or TRAMP-C1 cells were injected subcutaneously in the mice.
Within 2 weeks (B16) or 7 weeks (TRAMP-C1), respectively, tumour
volume was determined
[0670] 8. Preparation of a mRNA Vaccine
[0671] A particular example of the inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition, comprising a combination of
several antigens for the use as a vaccine for the treatment of
non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) was prepared in the following
according to the above disclosure. The exemplary inventive active
(immunostimulatory) composition consisted of 5 components, each
containing mRNA coding for one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1,
MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2, Survivin and 5T4, according to SEQ ID NOs: 4, 19,
21, 24 and 26 (GC-enriched sequences)) formulated with protamine at
a mass ratio of 4:1.
[0672] Vaccination
[0673] C57BU6 mice were vaccinated intradermally with the mRNA
vaccine consisting of 5 components, each containing mRNA coding for
one NSCLC related antigen (NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2, Survivin and
5T4, according to SEQ ID NOs: 4, 19, 21, 24 and 26 (GC-enriched
sequences)) formulated with protamine (64 .mu.g per antigen per
cycle, divided into 4 injections/cycle). Control vaccination was
performed using the corresponding total doses of RNA coding for
LacZ (control mRNA lacZ). The vaccination comprised three
immunization cycles (week 1, 3, and 5). The groups, number of mice
and mouse strains are indicated in the following table:
TABLE-US-00001 Groups Mouse strain Number of mice mRNA vaccine
C57BL/6 10 5 for Elispot and 5 for antibody detection in serum by
ELISA Control mRNA lacZ C57BL/6 5 3 for Elispot and all 5 for
antibody detection in serum by ELISA
[0674] Detection of Antigen-Specific Antibodies
[0675] 6 days after last vaccination blood samples (200 .mu.l) were
taken retro-orbitally and serum was analyzed for the presence of
antigen specific antibody subtypes IgG1 and IgG2a using ELISA.
96-well ELISA plates were coated with recombinant protein (10
.mu.g/ml in coating buffer, incubation at 37.degree. C. for 4 h)
and blocked with 200 .mu.l blocking buffer per well over night at
4.degree. C. Subsequently, the samples were incubated with serum
pooled from each group of mice and titrated in dilutions ranging
from 1:3 to 1:48 for 4 hours at room temperature. After incubation
with a specific antibody (1:300 in blocking buffer) against mouse
IgG1 or IgG2a and incubation with a HRP-coupled secondary antibody
(1:500 in blocking buffer), TMB-substrate was added. The
colorimetric reaction was measured at 450 nm using an ELISA reader
(Tecan Deutschland GmbH, Crailsheim, Germany).
[0676] ELISPOT
[0677] For the detection of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) responses
the analysis of the secretion of the effector cytokine IFN-.gamma.
in response to a specific stimulus can be visualized at a single
cell level using the ELISPOT technique.
[0678] Splenocytes from antigen-vaccinated and control mice were
isolated 6 days after last vaccination and then transferred into
96-well ELISPOT plates coated with an anti-IFN-.gamma. capture
antibody (10 .mu.g/ml). The cells were then stimulated for 24 hours
at 37.degree. C. either with relevant antigen-derived peptide
library or with the HIV-derived library or the solvent of the
peptides, DMSO, or incubated in pure medium as a control. All
libraries were used at a concentration of 1 .mu.g/peptide/ml. After
the incubation period the cells were washed out of the plate and
the IFN-.gamma. secreted by the cells was detected using a
biotinylated secondary antibody against murine IFN-.gamma. (1
.mu.g/ml), followed by streptavidin-AKP. Spots were visualized
using BCIP/NBT substrate and counted using an automated ELISPOT
reader (Immunospot Analyzer, CTL Analyzers LLC).
[0679] Statistical Analysis
[0680] Statistical analysis was performed using Graph Pad Prism
5.01 (GraphPad Software, Inc.). All results were expressed as the
mean (or median).+-.standard error of means. For Elispot assays,
due to the fact that the basal activation is strongly individual
dependent, a background correction was performed individually per
mouse by subtraction of the number of spots in medium wells from
all other values. Two-tailed Mann-Whitney tests were used to
analyze difference between the test groups with a significance
level of 5%.
[0681] Results and Discussion
[0682] Mice were vaccinated with the mRNA vaccine containing five
components as defined above, particularly GC-enriched mRNAs coding
for the NSCLC-associated antigens NY-ESO-1, MAGE-C2, MAGE-C1,
Survivin and 5T4, (according to SEQ ID NOs: 4, 19, 21, 24 and 26
(GC-enriched sequences)) each formulated separately with the
cationic peptide protamine at a mass ratio of 4:1. Control mice
were treated with irrelevant RNA coding for LacZ formulated with
protamine at the same ratio as the mRNA vaccine.
[0683] Using serum isolated from blood drawn from the
antigen-vaccinated and control mice, we tested the induction of
specific antibodies against the antigens. For three of the five
analyzed proteins, MAGE-C1, MAGE-C2 and NY-ESO-1, we detected
antigen specific antibodies in serum of mice vaccinated with the
mRNA vaccine demonstrating that the mRNAs are functional and
immunogenic in vivo. Proteins required for detection of antibodies
were produced in E. coli. As production of proteins in E.coli can
influence post-translational modifications and these are not well
described for the used antigens, this could account for the lack of
response seen for the remaining proteins.
[0684] Next the activation of cytotoxic T-cells in response to the
administration of the mRNA vaccine was analyzed. IFN-.gamma. is the
main mediator of Th1 responses and secreted by activated CTLs.
Therefore the presence of antigen-specific cytotoxic T-cells in
splenocytes from vaccinated mice was investigated using the ELISPOT
technique. As an antigenic stimulus for splenocytes restricted
peptide libraries were used. Because distinct epitopes of the used
human antigens for mouse MHC (H-2K.sup.b and H-2D.sup.b in C57BL/6
mice) are not known, we had to use a hypothetical selection of
peptides selected due to potential binding affinity by search of
the SYFPEITHI database. Out of peptide libraries (15 mers with 11
amino acids overlap) spanning the whole sequences of the proteins,
those 15 mers containing the hypothetically best epitopes were
selected and pooled up to a maximum of 18 peptides. However, these
selections might not necessarily contain the correct epitopes so
that the detection of immune responses with the help of these tools
can easily yield false negative results. Nevertheless, the
stimulation with two of these libraries, originating from NY-ESO-1
and 5T4, led to high IFN-.gamma. secretion in splenocytes from mice
vaccinated with the mRNA vaccine and not in splenocytes from
control mice, vaccinated with mRNA coding for irrelevant protein
.beta.-galctosidase. None of the splenocytes reacted to the
HIV-derived control peptide library. The number of IFN-.gamma.
spots by splenocytes incubated in medium alone represents the basal
activation of the freshly isolated cells. Due to the fact that the
basal activation is strongly individual dependent, the background
correction was performed individually by subtraction of the number
of spots in medium wells from all other values.
[0685] The results of these experiments are shown in FIGS. 27 to
34.
Sequence CWU 1
1
2811668DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence
(starting sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MUC1 (HsMUC1 -
5xVNTR) (see Figure 1) 1atgacaccgg gcacccagtc tcctttcttc ctgctgctgc
tcctcacagt gcttacagtt 60gttacaggtt ctggtcatgc aagctctacc ccaggtggag
aaaaggagac ttcggctacc 120cagagaagtt cagtgcccag ctctactgag
aagaatgctg tgagtatgac cagcagcgta 180ctctccagcc acagccccgg
ttcaggctcc tccaccactc agggacagga tgtcactctg 240gccccggcca
cggaaccagc ttcaggttca gctgccacct ggggacagga tgtcacctcg
300gtcccagtca ccaggccagc cctgggctcc accaccccgc cagcccacga
tgtcacctca 360gccccggaca acaagccagc cccgggctcc accgcccccc
cagcccacgg tgtcacctcg 420gccccggaca ccaggccggc cccgggctcc
accgcccccc cagcccacgg tgtcacctcg 480gccccggaca ccaggccggc
cccgggctcc accgcccccc cagcccacgg tgtcacctcg 540gccccggaca
ccaggccggc cccgggctcc accgcccccc cagcccacgg tgtcacctcg
600gccccggaca ccaggccggc cccgggctcc accgcccccc cagcccacgg
tgtcacctcg 660gccccggaca ccaggccggc cccgggctcc accgcccccc
cagcccacgg tgtcacctcg 720gccccggaca acaggcccgc cttgggctcc
accgcccctc cagtccacaa tgtcacctcg 780gcctcaggct ctgcatcagg
ctcagcttct actctggtgc acaacggcac ctctgccagg 840gctaccacaa
ccccagccag caagagcact ccattctcaa ttcccagcca ccactctgat
900actcctacca cccttgccag ccatagcacc aagactgatg ccagtagcac
tcaccatagc 960tcggtacctc ctctcacctc ctccaatcac agcacttctc
cccagttgtc tactggggtc 1020tctttctttt tcctgtcttt tcacatttca
aacctccagt ttaattcctc tctggaagat 1080cccagcaccg actactacca
agagctgcag agagacattt ctgaaatgtt tttgcagatt 1140tataaacaag
ggggttttct gggcctctcc aatattaagt tcaggccagg atctgtggtg
1200gtacaattga ctctggcctt ccgagaaggt accatcaatg tccacgacgt
ggagacacag 1260ttcaatcagt ataaaacgga agcagcctct cgatataacc
tgacgatctc agacgtcagc 1320gtgagtgatg tgccatttcc tttctctgcc
cagtctgggg ctggggtgcc aggctggggc 1380atcgcgctgc tggtgctggt
ctgtgttctg gttgcgctgg ccattgtcta tctcattgcc 1440ttggctgtct
gtcagtgccg ccgaaagaac tacgggcagc tggacatctt tccagcccgg
1500gatacctacc atcctatgag cgagtacccc acctaccaca cccatgggcg
ctatgtgccc 1560cctagcagta ccgatcgtag cccctatgag aaggtttctg
caggtaacgg tggcagcagc 1620ctctcttaca caaacccagc agtggcagcc
gcttctgcca acttgtag 166821668DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of
sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence encoding MUC1 (HsMUC1 GC -
5xVNTR) (see Figure 2) 2atgacccccg gcacccagag cccgttcttc ctgctcctgc
tgctcacggt gctgaccgtc 60gtgaccgggt ccggccacgc cagctccacc cccgggggcg
agaaggagac gagcgccacc 120cagcggtcca gcgtgccctc cagcaccgag
aagaacgcgg tctccatgac cagctccgtg 180ctgagctccc acagccccgg
gtccggcagc tccacgaccc agggccagga cgtgaccctc 240gccccggcca
ccgagcccgc cagcgggtcc gccgcgacgt ggggccagga cgtcaccagc
300gtgcccgtga cccgccccgc cctggggagc accacgccgc ccgcccacga
cgtcacctcc 360gcccccgaca acaagcccgc gccgggcagc accgcccccc
ccgcccacgg ggtgacctcc 420gcccccgaca cgcggccggc ccccggcagc
accgcgcccc ccgcccacgg cgtgacctcc 480gccccggaca cccgccccgc
ccccgggagc acggccccgc cggcgcacgg cgtcacctcc 540gcccccgaca
cccggcccgc ccccgggagc accgccccgc ccgcccacgg cgtgacgtcc
600gcgcccgaca cccgcccggc ccccggcagc accgcccccc ccgcccacgg
ggtgacctcc 660gccccggaca cgcggcccgc gcccggcagc accgccccgc
cggcccacgg ggtcacctcc 720gcccccgaca accgccccgc gctgggcagc
accgcccccc cggtgcacaa cgtgacgtcc 780gccagcgggt ccgccagcgg
ctccgccagc accctcgtcc acaacggcac cagcgcgcgg 840gccaccacca
cgcccgcctc caagagcacc cccttctcca tccccagcca ccactccgac
900accccgacca cgctggccag ccactccacc aagaccgacg ccagctccac
ccaccacagc 960tccgtgccgc cgctgacgag ctccaaccac agcacctccc
cccagctcag caccggggtg 1020tccttcttct tcctgagctt ccacatcagc
aacctgcagt tcaactccag cctcgaggac 1080ccgtccaccg actactacca
ggagctgcag cgcgacatca gcgagatgtt cctgcagatc 1140tacaagcagg
gcgggttcct cggcctgtcc aacatcaagt tccggcccgg gagcgtcgtg
1200gtgcagctga cgctcgcgtt ccgcgagggc accatcaacg tccacgacgt
ggagacccag 1260ttcaaccagt acaagaccga ggccgcctcc cggtacaacc
tgacgatcag cgacgtctcc 1320gtgagcgacg tgcccttccc cttctccgcc
cagagcggcg ccggggtccc gggctggggg 1380atcgcgctgc tcgtgctggt
gtgcgtcctg gtggccctcg ccatcgtgta cctgatcgcc 1440ctggcggtct
gccagtgccg ccggaagaac tacggccagc tcgacatctt ccccgcccgc
1500gacacctacc accccatgtc cgagtacccg acctaccaca cccacgggcg
gtacgtgccc 1560cccagctcca cggaccgcag cccctacgag aaggtgtccg
ccggcaacgg cgggagctcc 1620ctgagctaca ccaacccggc cgtcgccgcg
gccagcgcca acctgtga 166831263DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of
sequence RNA sequence (starting sequence based on the wildtype)
encoding 5T4 (Hs5T4 (trophoblast glycoprotein TPBG)) (see Figure 3)
3atgcctgggg ggtgctcccg gggccccgcc gccggggacg ggcgtctgcg gctggcgcga
60ctagcgctgg tactcctggg ctgggtctcc tcgtcttctc ccacctcctc ggcatcctcc
120ttctcctcct cggcgccgtt cctggcttcc gccgtgtccg cccagccccc
gctgccggac 180cagtgccccg cgctgtgcga gtgctccgag gcagcgcgca
cagtcaagtg cgttaaccgc 240aatctgaccg aggtgcccac ggacctgccc
gcctacgtgc gcaacctctt ccttaccggc 300aaccagctgg ccgtgctccc
tgccggcgcc ttcgcccgcc ggccgccgct ggcggagctg 360gccgcgctca
acctcagcgg cagccgcctg gacgaggtgc gcgcgggcgc cttcgagcat
420ctgcccagcc tgcgccagct cgacctcagc cacaacccac tggccgacct
cagtcccttc 480gctttctcgg gcagcaatgc cagcgtctcg gcccccagtc
cccttgtgga actgatcctg 540aaccacatcg tgccccctga agatgagcgg
cagaaccgga gcttcgaggg catggtggtg 600gcggccctgc tggcgggccg
tgcactgcag gggctccgcc gcttggagct ggccagcaac 660cacttccttt
acctgccgcg ggatgtgctg gcccaactgc ccagcctcag gcacctggac
720ttaagtaata attcgctggt gagcctgacc tacgtgtcct tccgcaacct
gacacatcta 780gaaagcctcc acctggagga caatgccctc aaggtccttc
acaatggcac cctggctgag 840ttgcaaggtc taccccacat tagggttttc
ctggacaaca atccctgggt ctgcgactgc 900cacatggcag acatggtgac
ctggctcaag gaaacagagg tagtgcaggg caaagaccgg 960ctcacctgtg
catatccgga aaaaatgagg aatcgggtcc tcttggaact caacagtgct
1020gacctggact gtgacccgat tcttccccca tccctgcaaa cctcttatgt
cttcctgggt 1080attgttttag ccctgatagg cgctattttc ctcctggttt
tgtatttgaa ccgcaagggg 1140ataaaaaagt ggatgcataa catcagagat
gcctgcaggg atcacatgga agggtatcat 1200tacagatatg aaatcaatgc
ggaccccaga ttaacgaacc tcagttctaa ctcggatgtc 1260tga
126341263DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence (GC)
stabilized RNA sequence encoding 5T4 (Hs5T4 GC) (see Figure 4)
4atgcccggcg ggtgcagccg gggcccggcc gccggggacg gccgcctgcg gctcgcgcgc
60ctggccctgg tgctcctggg gtgggtctcc agctccagcc ccacctccag cgcctccagc
120ttctccagct ccgccccctt cctggccagc gcggtgtccg cccagccccc
gctccccgac 180cagtgccccg ccctgtgcga gtgcagcgag gccgcgcgga
ccgtgaagtg cgtcaaccgc 240aacctgacgg aggtgcccac cgacctcccg
gcctacgtgc ggaacctgtt cctgaccggc 300aaccagctcg ccgtcctgcc
cgccggcgcc ttcgcgcgcc ggccgcccct ggccgagctc 360gccgccctga
acctgtccgg gagccgcctc gacgaggtgc gggccggcgc gttcgagcac
420ctgccgtccc tgcgccagct cgacctgagc cacaaccccc tggccgacct
ctcccccttc 480gccttcagcg ggagcaacgc ctccgtgagc gccccctccc
cgctggtcga gctgatcctc 540aaccacatcg tgccccccga ggacgagcgg
cagaaccgca gcttcgaggg catggtggtc 600gcggccctgc tggccgggcg
ggccctccag ggcctgcgcc ggctggagct cgcctccaac 660cacttcctgt
acctgccccg cgacgtgctc gcgcagctgc cgagcctgcg gcacctcgac
720ctgtccaaca acagcctggt gtccctcacc tacgtcagct tccgcaacct
gacgcacctg 780gagtccctcc acctggagga caacgccctg aaggtgctgc
acaacggcac cctcgccgag 840ctgcaggggc tgccccacat ccgggtgttc
ctcgacaaca acccctgggt ctgcgactgc 900cacatggccg acatggtgac
ctggctgaag gagaccgagg tggtccaggg caaggaccgc 960ctgacgtgcg
cgtaccccga gaagatgcgg aaccgggtgc tcctggagct gaacagcgcc
1020gacctcgact gcgacccgat cctgcccccc tccctgcaga ccagctacgt
gttcctcggg 1080atcgtcctgg ccctgatcgg cgccatcttc ctcctggtgc
tgtacctcaa ccgcaagggc 1140atcaagaagt ggatgcacaa catccgggac
gcctgccgcg accacatgga ggggtaccac 1200taccggtacg agatcaacgc
ggacccccgc ctgaccaacc tgtccagcaa ctccgacgtc 1260tga
126353768DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence
(starting sequence based on the wildtype) encoding Her-2/neu
(HsHer2/neu (v-erb-b2 erythroblastic leukemia viral oncogene
homolog 2)); (see Figure 5) 5atggagctgg cggccttgtg ccgctggggg
ctcctcctcg ccctcttgcc ccccggagcc 60gcgagcaccc aagtgtgcac cggcacagac
atgaagctgc ggctccctgc cagtcccgag 120acccacctgg acatgctccg
ccacctctac cagggctgcc aggtggtgca gggaaacctg 180gaactcacct
acctgcccac caatgccagc ctgtccttcc tgcaggatat ccaggaggtg
240cagggctacg tgctcatcgc tcacaaccaa gtgaggcagg tcccactgca
gaggctgcgg 300attgtgcgag gcacccagct ctttgaggac aactatgccc
tggccgtgct agacaatgga 360gacccgctga acaataccac ccctgtcaca
ggggcctccc caggaggcct gcgggagctg 420cagcttcgaa gcctcacaga
gatcttgaaa ggaggggtct tgatccagcg gaacccccag 480ctctgctacc
aggacacgat tttgtggaag gacatcttcc acaagaacaa ccagctggct
540ctcacactga tagacaccaa ccgctctcgg gcctgccacc cctgttctcc
gatgtgtaag 600ggctcccgct gctggggaga gagttctgag gattgtcaga
gcctgacgcg cactgtctgt 660gccggtggct gtgcccgctg caaggggcca
ctgcccactg actgctgcca tgagcagtgt 720gctgccggct gcacgggccc
caagcactct gactgcctgg cctgcctcca cttcaaccac 780agtggcatct
gtgagctgca ctgcccagcc ctggtcacct acaacacaga cacgtttgag
840tccatgccca atcccgaggg ccggtataca ttcggcgcca gctgtgtgac
tgcctgtccc 900tacaactacc tttctacgga cgtgggatcc tgcaccctcg
tctgccccct gcacaaccaa 960gaggtgacag cagaggatgg aacacagcgg
tgtgagaagt gcagcaagcc ctgtgcccga 1020gtgtgctatg gtctgggcat
ggagcacttg cgagaggtga gggcagttac cagtgccaat 1080atccaggagt
ttgctggctg caagaagatc tttgggagcc tggcatttct gccggagagc
1140tttgatgggg acccagcctc caacactgcc ccgctccagc cagagcagct
ccaagtgttt 1200gagactctgg aagagatcac aggttaccta tacatctcag
catggccgga cagcctgcct 1260gacctcagcg tcttccagaa cctgcaagta
atccggggac gaattctgca caatggcgcc 1320tactcgctga ccctgcaagg
gctgggcatc agctggctgg ggctgcgctc actgagggaa 1380ctgggcagtg
gactggccct catccaccat aacacccacc tctgcttcgt gcacacggtg
1440ccctgggacc agctctttcg gaacccgcac caagctctgc tccacactgc
caaccggcca 1500gaggacgagt gtgtgggcga gggcctggcc tgccaccagc
tgtgcgcccg agggcactgc 1560tggggtccag ggcccaccca gtgtgtcaac
tgcagccagt tccttcgggg ccaggagtgc 1620gtggaggaat gccgagtact
gcaggggctc cccagggagt atgtgaatgc caggcactgt 1680ttgccgtgcc
accctgagtg tcagccccag aatggctcag tgacctgttt tggaccggag
1740gctgaccagt gtgtggcctg tgcccactat aaggaccctc ccttctgcgt
ggcccgctgc 1800cccagcggtg tgaaacctga cctctcctac atgcccatct
ggaagtttcc agatgaggag 1860ggcgcatgcc agccttgccc catcaactgc
acccactcct gtgtggacct ggatgacaag 1920ggctgccccg ccgagcagag
agccagccct ctgacgtcca tcatctctgc ggtggttggc 1980attctgctgg
tcgtggtctt gggggtggtc tttgggatcc tcatcaagcg acggcagcag
2040aagatccgga agtacacgat gcggagactg ctgcaggaaa cggagctggt
ggagccgctg 2100acacctagcg gagcgatgcc caaccaggcg cagatgcgga
tcctgaaaga gacggagctg 2160aggaaggtga aggtgcttgg atctggcgct
tttggcacag tctacaaggg catctggatc 2220cctgatgggg agaatgtgaa
aattccagtg gccatcaaag tgttgaggga aaacacatcc 2280cccaaagcca
acaaagaaat cttagacgaa gcatacgtga tggctggtgt gggctcccca
2340tatgtctccc gccttctggg catctgcctg acatccacgg tgcagctggt
gacacagctt 2400atgccctatg gctgcctctt agaccatgtc cgggaaaacc
gcggacgcct gggctcccag 2460gacctgctga actggtgtat gcagattgcc
aaggggatga gctacctgga ggatgtgcgg 2520ctcgtacaca gggacttggc
cgctcggaac gtgctggtca agagtcccaa ccatgtcaaa 2580attacagact
tcgggctggc tcggctgctg gacattgacg agacagagta ccatgcagat
2640gggggcaagg tgcccatcaa gtggatggcg ctggagtcca ttctccgccg
gcggttcacc 2700caccagagtg atgtgtggag ttatggtgtg actgtgtggg
agctgatgac ttttggggcc 2760aaaccttacg atgggatccc agcccgggag
atccctgacc tgctggaaaa gggggagcgg 2820ctgccccagc cccccatctg
caccattgat gtctacatga tcatggtcaa atgttggatg 2880attgactctg
aatgtcggcc aagattccgg gagttggtgt ctgaattctc ccgcatggcc
2940agggaccccc agcgctttgt ggtcatccag aatgaggact tgggcccagc
cagtcccttg 3000gacagcacct tctaccgctc actgctggag gacgatgaca
tgggggacct ggtggatgct 3060gaggagtatc tggtacccca gcagggcttc
ttctgtccag accctgcccc gggcgctggg 3120ggcatggtcc accacaggca
ccgcagctca tctaccagga gtggcggtgg ggacctgaca 3180ctagggctgg
agccctctga agaggaggcc cccaggtctc cactggcacc ctccgaaggg
3240gctggctccg atgtatttga tggtgacctg ggaatggggg cagccaaggg
gctgcaaagc 3300ctccccacac atgaccccag ccctctacag cggtacagtg
aggaccccac agtacccctg 3360ccctctgaga ctgatggcta cgttgccccc
ctgacctgca gcccccagcc tgaatatgtg 3420aaccagccag atgttcggcc
ccagccccct tcgccccgag agggccctct gcctgctgcc 3480cgacctgctg
gtgccactct ggaaaggccc aagactctct ccccagggaa gaatggggtc
3540gtcaaagacg tttttgcctt tgggggtgcc gtggagaacc ccgagtactt
gacaccccag 3600ggaggagctg cccctcagcc ccaccctcct cctgccttca
gcccagcctt cgacaacctc 3660tattactggg accaggaccc accagagcgg
ggggctccac ccagcacctt caaagggaca 3720cctacggcag agaacccaga
gtacctgggt ctggacgtgc cagtgtga 376863768DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence
encoding Her-2/neu (HsHer2/neu GC) (see Figure 6) 6atggagctgg
ccgccctctg ccggtggggc ctgctgctcg cgctgctgcc cccgggggcc 60gccagcaccc
aggtgtgcac cggcacggac atgaagctcc gcctgcccgc ctcccccgag
120acccacctgg acatgctccg gcacctgtac caggggtgcc aggtcgtgca
gggcaacctg 180gagctcacct acctgcccac caacgccagc ctgtccttcc
tccaggacat ccaggaggtg 240caggggtacg tcctgatcgc gcacaaccag
gtgcgccagg tgccgctgca gcggctccgc 300atcgtccggg gcacgcagct
gttcgaggac aactacgccc tggccgtgct cgacaacggc 360gaccccctga
acaacaccac ccccgtgacc ggggccagcc ccggcgggct gcgcgagctc
420cagctgcggt ccctgacgga gatcctcaag ggcggggtcc tgatccagcg
caacccgcag 480ctgtgctacc aggacaccat cctctggaag gacatcttcc
acaagaacaa ccagctggcg 540ctgaccctca tcgacaccaa ccggagccgc
gcctgccacc cctgctcccc catgtgcaag 600ggcagccggt gctggggcga
gtccagcgag gactgccagt ccctgacgcg caccgtgtgc 660gccgggggct
gcgcccggtg caaggggccc ctgccgaccg actgctgcca cgagcagtgc
720gccgcgggct gcaccggccc caagcacagc gactgcctcg cctgcctgca
cttcaaccac 780tccgggatct gcgagctgca ctgccccgcc ctcgtgacgt
acaacaccga caccttcgag 840agcatgccca acccggaggg ccgctacacc
ttcggggcct cctgcgtcac ggcctgcccc 900tacaactacc tgagcaccga
cgtgggctcc tgcaccctgg tgtgccccct ccacaaccag 960gaggtcaccg
cggaggacgg gacgcagcgg tgcgagaagt gcagcaagcc ctgcgcccgc
1020gtgtgctacg gcctgggcat ggagcacctg cgggaggtgc gcgccgtcac
ctccgccaac 1080atccaggagt tcgccgggtg caagaagatc ttcggcagcc
tcgcgttcct gccggagagc 1140ttcgacgggg accccgcctc caacaccgcc
cccctgcagc ccgagcagct gcaggtgttc 1200gagaccctcg aggagatcac
gggctacctg tacatcagcg cctggccgga ctccctgccc 1260gacctcagcg
tgttccagaa cctgcaggtc atccgggggc gcatcctgca caacggcgcc
1320tactccctca ccctgcaggg cctggggatc agctggctcg gcctgcggtc
cctgcgggag 1380ctcgggagcg gcctggcgct gatccaccac aacacccacc
tctgcttcgt gcacaccgtg 1440ccctgggacc agctgttccg caacccccac
caggccctgc tccacacggc caaccggccg 1500gaggacgagt gcgtcgggga
gggcctggcc tgccaccagc tgtgcgcgcg cggccactgc 1560tgggggcccg
gccccaccca gtgcgtgaac tgctcccagt tcctccgggg gcaggagtgc
1620gtcgaggagt gccgcgtgct gcagggcctg ccgcgggagt acgtgaacgc
ccgccactgc 1680ctcccctgcc accccgagtg ccagccccag aacggcagcg
tcacctgctt cgggccggag 1740gccgaccagt gcgtggcctg cgcccactac
aaggacccgc ccttctgcgt ggcgcggtgc 1800ccctccggcg tcaagccgga
cctgagctac atgcccatct ggaagttccc cgacgaggag 1860ggggcctgcc
agccctgccc gatcaactgc acccactcct gcgtggacct ggacgacaag
1920ggctgccccg ccgagcagcg cgccagcccc ctcacgtcca tcatcagcgc
cgtggtcggg 1980atcctgctgg tggtggtcct cggcgtggtg ttcggcatcc
tgatcaagcg gcgccagcag 2040aagatccgga agtacaccat gcgccggctg
ctccaggaga ccgagctggt cgagcccctg 2100accccgtccg gggcgatgcc
caaccaggcc cagatgcgca tcctcaagga gaccgagctg 2160cggaaggtga
aggtgctggg cagcggggcc ttcggcacgg tctacaaggg gatctggatc
2220cccgacggcg agaacgtgaa gatccccgtg gccatcaagg tcctccgcga
gaacacctcc 2280ccgaaggcca acaaggagat cctggacgag gcgtacgtga
tggccggcgt ggggagcccc 2340tacgtcagcc ggctgctcgg catctgcctg
acctccaccg tgcagctggt gacgcagctc 2400atgccctacg ggtgcctgct
ggaccacgtc cgcgagaacc ggggccggct cgggagccag 2460gacctgctga
actggtgcat gcagatcgcc aagggcatgt cctacctcga ggacgtgcgc
2520ctggtgcacc gggacctggc cgcgcgcaac gtcctcgtga agagccccaa
ccacgtgaag 2580atcaccgact tcggcctggc ccggctgctc gacatcgacg
agaccgagta ccacgccgac 2640gggggcaagg tcccgatcaa gtggatggcc
ctggagtcca tcctgcgccg gcgcttcacc 2700caccagagcg acgtgtggtc
ctacggggtg acggtctggg agctcatgac cttcggcgcc 2760aagccctacg
acgggatccc cgcgcgggag atcccggacc tgctggagaa gggcgagcgc
2820ctcccccagc cccccatctg caccatcgac gtgtacatga tcatggtgaa
gtgctggatg 2880atcgacagcg agtgccggcc gcgcttccgg gagctggtct
ccgagttcag ccgcatggcc 2940cgggaccccc agcgcttcgt ggtgatccag
aacgaggacc tgggccccgc ctcccccctc 3000gacagcacct tctaccggtc
cctgctggag gacgacgaca tgggggacct cgtcgacgcc 3060gaggagtacc
tggtgccgca gcagggcttc ttctgccccg accccgcccc cggggcgggc
3120ggcatggtgc accaccgcca ccggagctcc agcacgcgct ccgggggcgg
ggacctgacc 3180ctcggcctgg agccgagcga ggaggaggcc ccgcggagcc
ccctggcccc ctccgagggg 3240gccggcagcg acgtcttcga cggcgacctc
gggatgggcg ccgcgaaggg gctgcagtcc 3300ctgccgaccc acgaccccag
ccccctccag cgctactccg aggaccccac cgtgccgctg 3360cccagcgaga
cggacggcta cgtggccccc ctgacctgct ccccgcagcc ggagtacgtc
3420aaccagcccg acgtgcggcc ccagcccccg agcccccggg aggggcccct
cccggccgcc 3480cgccccgcgg gcgccaccct ggagcggccc aagaccctgt
cccccggcaa gaacggggtg 3540gtcaaggacg tgttcgcctt cggcggggcc
gtcgagaacc cggagtacct cacgccccag 3600ggcggggccg cgccccagcc
ccacccgccc cccgccttca gccccgcctt cgacaacctg 3660tactactggg
accaggaccc gccggagcgc ggcgcccccc cctccacctt caagggcacc
3720ccgaccgccg agaaccccga gtacctgggg ctcgacgtgc ccgtgtga
376873399DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence
(starting sequence based on the wildtype) encoding hTERT (HsTERT
(telomerase reverse transcriptase)) (see Figure 7) 7atgccgcgcg
ctccccgctg ccgagccgtg cgctccctgc tgcgcagcca ctaccgcgag 60gtgctgccgc
tggccacgtt cgtgcggcgc ctggggcccc agggctggcg gctggtgcag
120cgcggggacc cggcggcttt ccgcgcgctg gtggcccagt gcctggtgtg
cgtgccctgg 180gacgcacggc cgccccccgc cgccccctcc ttccgccagg
tgtcctgcct gaaggagctg 240gtggcccgag tgctgcagag gctgtgcgag
cgcggcgcga agaacgtgct ggccttcggc 300ttcgcgctgc tggacggggc
ccgcgggggc ccccccgagg ccttcaccac cagcgtgcgc 360agctacctgc
ccaacacggt gaccgacgca ctgcggggga gcggggcgtg ggggctgctg
420ctgcgccgcg tgggcgacga cgtgctggtt cacctgctgg cacgctgcgc
gctctttgtg 480ctggtggctc ccagctgcgc ctaccaggtg tgcgggccgc
cgctgtacca gctcggcgct 540gccactcagg cccggccccc gccacacgct
agtggacccc gaaggcgtct gggatgcgaa 600cgggcctgga accatagcgt
cagggaggcc ggggtccccc tgggcctgcc agccccgggt 660gcgaggaggc
gcgggggcag tgccagccga agtctgccgt tgcccaagag gcccaggcgt
720ggcgctgccc ctgagccgga gcggacgccc gttgggcagg ggtcctgggc
ccacccgggc 780aggacgcgtg gaccgagtga ccgtggtttc tgtgtggtgt
cacctgccag acccgccgaa 840gaagccacct ctttggaggg tgcgctctct
ggcacgcgcc actcccaccc atccgtgggc 900cgccagcacc acgcgggccc
cccatccaca tcgcggccac cacgtccctg ggacacgcct 960tgtcccccgg
tgtacgccga gaccaagcac ttcctctact cctcaggcga caaggagcag
1020ctgcggccct ccttcctact cagctctctg aggcccagcc tgactggcgc
tcggaggctc 1080gtggagacca tctttctggg ttccaggccc tggatgccag
ggactccccg caggttgccc 1140cgcctgcccc agcgctactg gcaaatgcgg
cccctgtttc tggagctgct tgggaaccac 1200gcgcagtgcc cctacggggt
gctcctcaag acgcactgcc cgctgcgagc tgcggtcacc 1260ccagcagccg
gtgtctgtgc ccgggagaag ccccagggct ctgtggcggc ccccgaggag
1320gaggacacag acccccgtcg cctggtgcag ctgctccgcc agcacagcag
cccctggcag 1380gtgtacggct tcgtgcgggc ctgcctgcgc cggctggtgc
ccccaggcct ctggggctcc 1440aggcacaacg aacgccgctt cctcaggaac
accaagaagt tcatctccct ggggaagcat 1500gccaagctct cgctgcagga
gctgacgtgg aagatgagcg tgcgggactg cgcttggctg 1560cgcaggagcc
caggggttgg ctgtgttccg gccgcagagc accgtctgcg tgaggagatc
1620ctggccaagt tcctgcactg gctgatgagt gtgtacgtcg tcgagctgct
caggtctttc 1680ttttatgtca cggagaccac gtttcaaaag aacaggctct
ttttctaccg gaagagtgtc 1740tggagcaagt tgcaaagcat tggaatcaga
cagcacttga agagggtgca gctgcgggag 1800ctgtcggaag cagaggtcag
gcagcatcgg gaagccaggc ccgccctgct gacgtccaga 1860ctccgcttca
tccccaagcc tgacgggctg cggccgattg tgaacatgga ctacgtcgtg
1920ggagccagaa cgttccgcag agaaaagagg gccgagcgtc tcacctcgag
ggtgaaggca 1980ctgttcagcg tgctcaacta cgagcgggcg cggcgccccg
gcctcctggg cgcctctgtg 2040ctgggcctgg acgatatcca cagggcctgg
cgcaccttcg tgctgcgtgt gcgggcccag 2100gacccgccgc ctgagctgta
ctttgtcaag gtggatgtga cgggcgcgta cgacaccatc 2160ccccaggaca
ggctcacgga ggtcatcgcc agcatcatca aaccccagaa cacgtactgc
2220gtgcgtcggt atgccgtggt ccagaaggcc gcccatgggc acgtccgcaa
ggccttcaag 2280agccacgtct ctaccttgac agacctccag ccgtacatgc
gacagttcgt ggctcacctg 2340caggagacca gcccgctgag ggatgccgtc
gtcatcgagc agagctcctc cctgaatgag 2400gccagcagtg gcctcttcga
cgtcttccta cgcttcatgt gccaccacgc cgtgcgcatc 2460aggggcaagt
cctacgtcca gtgccagggg atcccgcagg gctccatcct ctccacgctg
2520ctctgcagcc tgtgctacgg cgacatggag aacaagctgt ttgcggggat
tcggcgggac 2580gggctgctcc tgcgtttggt ggatgatttc ttgttggtga
cacctcacct cacccacgcg 2640aaaaccttcc tcaggaccct ggtccgaggt
gtccctgagt atggctgcgt ggtgaacttg 2700cggaagacag tggtgaactt
ccctgtagaa gacgaggccc tgggtggcac ggcttttgtt 2760cagatgccgg
cccacggcct attcccctgg tgcggcctgc tgctggatac ccggaccctg
2820gaggtgcaga gcgactactc cagctatgcc cggacctcca tcagagccag
tctcaccttc 2880aaccgcggct tcaaggctgg gaggaacatg cgtcgcaaac
tctttggggt cttgcggctg 2940aagtgtcaca gcctgtttct ggatttgcag
gtgaacagcc tccagacggt gtgcaccaac 3000atctacaaga tcctcctgct
gcaggcgtac aggtttcacg catgtgtgct gcagctccca 3060tttcatcagc
aagtttggaa gaaccccaca tttttcctgc gcgtcatctc tgacacggcc
3120tccctctgct actccatcct gaaagccaag aacgcaggga tgtcgctggg
ggccaagggc 3180gccgccggcc ctctgccctc cgaggccgtg cagtggctgt
gccaccaagc attcctgctc 3240aagctgactc gacaccgtgt cacctacgtg
ccactcctgg ggtcactcag gacagcccag 3300acgcagctga gtcggaagct
cccggggacg acgctgactg ccctggaggc cgcagccaac 3360ccggcactgc
cctcagactt caagaccatc ctggactga 339983399DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence
encoding hTERT (HsTERT GC) (see Figure 8) 8atgccccggg ccccgcgctg
ccgggccgtg cgcagcctgc tccggtccca ctaccgcgag 60gtcctgcccc tggcgacctt
cgtgcggcgc ctcggccccc aggggtggcg gctggtgcag 120cgcggcgacc
ccgccgcctt ccgggccctg gtcgcccagt gcctcgtgtg cgtgccgtgg
180gacgcgcgcc ccccgcccgc cgccccgagc ttccggcagg tctcctgcct
gaaggagctg 240gtggcccgcg tgctccagcg gctgtgcgag cgcggggcga
agaacgtcct ggccttcggc 300ttcgccctcc tggacggggc ccggggcggc
ccccccgagg ccttcaccac gagcgtgcgc 360tcctacctgc ccaacaccgt
gaccgacgcg ctccggggga gcggcgcctg ggggctgctg 420ctccgccggg
tcggcgacga cgtgctggtg cacctgctcg cccgctgcgc cctgttcgtc
480ctggtggccc cgtcctgcgc gtaccaggtg tgcgggcccc cgctctacca
gctgggcgcc 540gccacccagg cccggccccc gccccacgcc agcggccccc
ggcgccggct ggggtgcgag 600cgcgcgtgga accactccgt ccgggaggcc
ggcgtgcccc tcgggctgcc ggcccccggc 660gcccgccggc gcggcgggag
cgcctcccgg agcctgcccc tccccaagcg cccgcggcgc 720ggcgcggccc
ccgagcccga gcggacgccc gtggggcagg gctcctgggc ccacccgggg
780cgcacccggg gccccagcga ccgcggcttc tgcgtcgtgt cccccgcccg
gccggcggag 840gaggccacca gcctggaggg ggccctgtcc ggcacccgcc
acagccaccc ctccgtgggg 900cggcagcacc acgccggccc ccccagcacg
agccgcccgc cccggccctg ggacaccccc 960tgcccgcccg tctacgccga
gaccaagcac ttcctctact ccagcgggga caaggagcag 1020ctgcggccct
ccttcctgct cagctccctg cgccccagcc tgaccggcgc gcggcgcctc
1080gtggagacga tcttcctggg ctcccggccg tggatgcccg ggaccccgcg
ccggctgccc 1140cgcctcccgc agcggtactg gcagatgcgc cccctgttcc
tggagctcct gggcaaccac 1200gcccagtgcc cctacggggt cctgctgaag
acccactgcc ccctccgggc cgccgtgacc 1260ccggccgcgg gcgtgtgcgc
ccgcgagaag ccccagggga gcgtcgccgc ccccgaggag 1320gaggacacgg
acccccggcg cctggtgcag ctgctccggc agcactccag cccgtggcag
1380gtgtacggct tcgtccgcgc ctgcctgcgg cgcctggtgc cccccggcct
ctgggggtcc 1440cggcacaacg agcgccggtt cctgcgcaac accaagaagt
tcatcagcct gggcaagcac 1500gcgaagctct ccctgcagga gctgacctgg
aagatgagcg tgcgggactg cgcctggctc 1560cggcgctccc cgggggtcgg
ctgcgtgccc gccgccgagc accggctgcg cgaggagatc 1620ctggcgaagt
tcctccactg gctgatgagc gtgtacgtcg tggagctgct ccggtccttc
1680ttctacgtga ccgagacgac cttccagaag aaccgcctgt tcttctaccg
gaagagcgtc 1740tggtccaagc tgcagagcat cggcatccgc cagcacctca
agcgggtgca gctgcgcgag 1800ctgagcgagg ccgaggtgcg gcagcaccgc
gaggcccggc ccgccctcct gacctcccgc 1860ctgcggttca tccccaagcc
ggacgggctc cgccccatcg tcaacatgga ctacgtggtg 1920ggcgcccgga
ccttccgccg ggagaagcgc gcggagcggc tgacgagccg ggtcaaggcc
1980ctgttctccg tgctcaacta cgagcgcgcc cggcgccccg ggctgctggg
cgccagcgtg 2040ctcgggctgg acgacatcca ccgggcctgg cgcaccttcg
tcctgcgggt gcgcgcgcag 2100gaccccccgc ccgagctcta cttcgtgaag
gtcgacgtga ccggcgccta cgacaccatc 2160ccccaggacc ggctgacgga
ggtgatcgcc tccatcatca agccccagaa cacctactgc 2220gtccgccggt
acgccgtggt gcagaaggcc gcgcacggcc acgtccgcaa ggccttcaag
2280agccacgtgt ccaccctgac cgacctccag ccgtacatgc ggcagttcgt
ggcccacctg 2340caggagacga gccccctgcg cgacgccgtc gtgatcgagc
agtccagctc cctcaacgag 2400gcgagctccg ggctgttcga cgtgttcctg
cggttcatgt gccaccacgc cgtccgcatc 2460cggggcaaga gctacgtgca
gtgccagggg atcccccagg gctccatcct cagcaccctg 2520ctgtgctccc
tctgctacgg ggacatggag aacaagctgt tcgccggcat ccgccgggac
2580ggcctgctcc tgcgcctggt ggacgacttc ctcctggtca ccccgcacct
gacccacgcc 2640aagacgttcc tccggaccct ggtgcgcggg gtgccggagt
acggctgcgt cgtgaacctg 2700cggaagaccg tggtcaactt ccccgtggag
gacgaggccc tcgggggcac cgcgttcgtg 2760cagatgcccg cccacgggct
gttcccctgg tgcggcctgc tcctggacac ccggacgctg 2820gaggtccaga
gcgactacag ctcctacgcc cgcaccagca tccgggcctc cctcaccttc
2880aaccgcggct tcaaggccgg gcggaacatg cgccggaagc tgttcggcgt
gctgcgcctc 2940aagtgccaca gcctgttcct ggacctccag gtcaactccc
tgcagaccgt gtgcacgaac 3000atctacaaga tcctgctcct gcaggcgtac
cggttccacg cctgcgtgct gcagctcccg 3060ttccaccagc aggtctggaa
gaaccccacc ttcttcctgc gcgtgatcag cgacaccgcc 3120tccctgtgct
acagcatcct caaggccaag aacgccggga tgtccctggg cgcgaagggg
3180gccgccggcc ccctgcccag cgaggccgtg cagtggctct gccaccaggc
cttcctgctg 3240aagctcaccc ggcaccgcgt cacgtacgtg ccgctgctgg
gctccctccg gaccgcgcag 3300acccagctga gccgcaagct gcccgggacc
acgctcaccg ccctggaggc cgccgcgaac 3360cccgccctgc cctccgactt
caagaccatc ctcgactga 339991554DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of
sequence RNA sequence (starting sequence based on the wildtype)
encoding WT1 (HsWT1 (Wilms tumor 1)); (see Figure 9) 9ctgcaggacc
cggcttccac gtgtgtcccg gagccggcgt ctcagcacac gctccgctcc 60gggcctgggt
gcctacagca gccagagcag cagggagtcc gggacccggg cggcatctgg
120gccaagttag gcgccgccga ggccagcgct gaacgtctcc agggccggag
gagccgcggg 180gcgtccgggt ctgagccgca gcaaatgggc tccgacgtgc
gggacctgaa cgcgctgctg 240cccgccgtcc cctccctggg tggcggcggc
ggctgtgccc tgcctgtgag cggcgcggcg 300cagtgggcgc cggtgctgga
ctttgcgccc ccgggcgctt cggcttacgg gtcgttgggc 360ggccccgcgc
cgccaccggc tccgccgcca cccccgccgc cgccgcctca ctccttcatc
420aaacaggagc cgagctgggg cggcgcggag ccgcacgagg agcagtgcct
gagcgccttc 480actgtccact tttccggcca gttcactggc acagccggag
cctgtcgcta cgggcccttc 540ggtcctcctc cgcccagcca ggcgtcatcc
ggccaggcca ggatgtttcc taacgcgccc 600tacctgccca gctgcctcga
gagccagccc gctattcgca atcagggtta cagcacggtc 660accttcgacg
ggacgcccag ctacggtcac acgccctcgc accatgcggc gcagttcccc
720aaccactcat tcaagcatga ggatcccatg ggccagcagg gctcgctggg
tgagcagcag 780tactcggtgc cgcccccggt ctatggctgc cacaccccca
ccgacagctg caccggcagc 840caggctttgc tgctgaggac gccctacagc
agtgacaatt tataccaaat gacatcccag 900cttgaatgca tgacctggaa
tcagatgaac ttaggagcca ccttaaaggg agttgctgct 960gggagctcca
gctcagtgaa atggacagaa gggcagagca accacagcac agggtacgag
1020agcgataacc acacaacgcc catcctctgc ggagcccaat acagaataca
cacgcacggt 1080gtcttcagag gcattcagga tgtgcgacgt gtgcctggag
tagccccgac tcttgtacgg 1140tcggcatctg agaccagtga gaaacgcccc
ttcatgtgtg cttacccagg ctgcaataag 1200agatatttta agctgtccca
cttacagatg cacagcagga agcacactgg tgagaaacca 1260taccagtgtg
acttcaagga ctgtgaacga aggttttctc gttcagacca gctcaaaaga
1320caccaaagga gacatacagg tgtgaaacca ttccagtgta aaacttgtca
gcgaaagttc 1380tcccggtccg accacctgaa gacccacacc aggactcata
caggtaaaac aagtgaaaag 1440cccttcagct gtcggtggcc aagttgtcag
aaaaagtttg cccggtcaga tgaattagtc 1500cgccatcaca acatgcatca
gagaaacatg accaaactcc agctggcgct ttga 1554101554DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence encoding WT1 (HsWT1
(Wilms tumor 1)) showing a sequence with a reduced GC content in
region 325-408 of said sequence compared to the corresponding
region of the wildtype sequence (see Figure 10) 10atgcaggacc
ccgccagcac ctgcgtgccg gagcccgcct cccagcacac cctccggagc 60ggccccgggt
gcctgcagca gcccgagcag cagggcgtcc gcgacccggg cgggatctgg
120gcgaagctgg gggccgccga ggcctccgcc gagcggctcc agggccgccg
gagccgcggc 180gcgtccggga gcgagcccca gcagatgggc tccgacgtgc
gggacctgaa cgccctgctc 240cccgccgtgc ccagcctggg cggcgggggc
gggtgcgccc tgccggtctc cggggcggcc 300cagtgggccc ccgtgctcga
cttcgctcct ccaggagcta gcgcttacgg atctctggga 360ggacctgctc
ctccacccgc tccgccacct cctccaccac ctccacctca cagcttcatc
420aagcaggagc cctcctgggg cggcgccgag ccccacgagg agcagtgcct
gagcgccttc 480acggtgcact tctccgggca gttcaccggg accgcggggg
cctgccgcta cggccccttc 540ggcccgcccc ccccgagcca ggcctccagc
gggcaggccc ggatgttccc caacgccccc 600tacctcccct cctgcctgga
gagccagccg gcgatccgca accagggcta cagcaccgtc 660acgttcgacg
ggaccccctc ctacggccac acccccagcc accacgccgc ccagttcccc
720aaccactcct tcaagcacga ggacccgatg gggcagcagg gcagcctggg
cgagcagcag 780tactccgtgc ccccgcccgt gtacgggtgc cacaccccga
cggacagctg caccggctcc 840caggccctcc tgctgcggac cccctacagc
tccgacaacc tctaccagat gaccagccag 900ctggagtgca tgacgtggaa
ccagatgaac ctgggggcca ccctcaaggg cgtcgcggcc 960gggtccagct
ccagcgtgaa gtggaccgag ggccagtcca accacagcac cggctacgag
1020tccgacaacc acacgacccc catcctgtgc ggggcccagt accgcatcca
cacccacggc 1080gtgttccggg ggatccagga cgtccgccgg gtgcccggcg
tggccccgac cctggtccgc 1140agcgcgtccg agacgagcga gaagcggccc
ttcatgtgcg cctaccccgg ctgcaacaag 1200cgctacttca agctcagcca
cctgcagatg cactcccgga agcacaccgg ggagaagccc 1260taccagtgcg
acttcaagga ctgcgagcgc cggttcagcc gctccgacca gctgaagcgg
1320caccagcggc gccacaccgg cgtgaagccg ttccagtgca agacctgcca
gcggaagttc 1380agccgctccg accacctcaa gacgcacacc cggacccaca
ccgggaagac gagcgagaag 1440cccttctcct gccgctggcc cagctgccag
aagaagttcg cccggtccga cgagctggtg 1500cgccaccaca acatgcacca
gcggaacatg accaagctgc agctcgccct gtga 1554111554DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence
encoding WT1 (HsWT1 GC) (see Figure 11) 11atgcaggacc ccgccagcac
ctgcgtgccg gagcccgcct cccagcacac cctccggagc 60ggccccgggt gcctgcagca
gcccgagcag cagggcgtcc gcgacccggg cgggatctgg 120gcgaagctgg
gggccgccga ggcctccgcc gagcggctcc agggccgccg gagccgcggc
180gcgtccggga gcgagcccca gcagatgggc tccgacgtgc gggacctgaa
cgccctgctc 240cccgccgtgc ccagcctggg cggcgggggc gggtgcgccc
tgccggtctc cggggcggcc 300cagtgggccc ccgtgctcga cttcgccccc
cccggcgcca gcgcgtacgg gtccctgggc 360ggcccggccc cgccccccgc
cccgcccccc ccgccgcccc ccccgccgca cagcttcatc 420aagcaggagc
cctcctgggg cggcgccgag ccccacgagg agcagtgcct gagcgccttc
480acggtgcact tctccgggca gttcaccggg accgcggggg cctgccgcta
cggccccttc 540ggcccgcccc ccccgagcca ggcctccagc gggcaggccc
ggatgttccc caacgccccc 600tacctcccct cctgcctgga gagccagccg
gcgatccgca accagggcta cagcaccgtc 660acgttcgacg ggaccccctc
ctacggccac acccccagcc accacgccgc ccagttcccc 720aaccactcct
tcaagcacga ggacccgatg gggcagcagg gcagcctggg cgagcagcag
780tactccgtgc ccccgcccgt gtacgggtgc cacaccccga cggacagctg
caccggctcc 840caggccctcc tgctgcggac cccctacagc tccgacaacc
tctaccagat gaccagccag 900ctggagtgca tgacgtggaa ccagatgaac
ctgggggcca ccctcaaggg cgtcgcggcc 960gggtccagct ccagcgtgaa
gtggaccgag ggccagtcca accacagcac cggctacgag 1020tccgacaacc
acacgacccc catcctgtgc ggggcccagt accgcatcca cacccacggc
1080gtgttccggg ggatccagga cgtccgccgg gtgcccggcg tggccccgac
cctggtccgc 1140agcgcgtccg agacgagcga gaagcggccc ttcatgtgcg
cctaccccgg ctgcaacaag 1200cgctacttca agctcagcca cctgcagatg
cactcccgga agcacaccgg ggagaagccc 1260taccagtgcg acttcaagga
ctgcgagcgc cggttcagcc gctccgacca gctgaagcgg 1320caccagcggc
gccacaccgg cgtgaagccg ttccagtgca agacctgcca gcggaagttc
1380agccgctccg accacctcaa gacgcacacc cggacccaca ccgggaagac
gagcgagaag 1440cccttctcct gccgctggcc cagctgccag aagaagttcg
cccggtccga cgagctggtg 1500cgccaccaca acatgcacca gcggaacatg
accaagctgc agctcgccct gtga 1554122109DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence (starting sequence
based on the wildtype) encoding CEA (CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen)
HsCEACAM5);(see Figure 12) 12atggagtctc cctcggcccc tccccacaga
tggtgcatcc cctggcagag gctcctgctc 60acagcctcac ttctaacctt ctggaacccg
cccaccactg ccaagctcac tattgaatcc 120acgccgttca atgtcgcaga
ggggaaggag gtgcttctac ttgtccacaa tctgccccag 180catctttttg
gctacagctg gtacaaaggt gaaagagtgg atggcaaccg tcaaattata
240ggatatgtaa taggaactca acaagctacc ccagggcccg catacagtgg
tcgagagata 300atatacccca atgcatccct gctgatccag aacatcatcc
agaatgacac aggattctac 360accctacacg tcataaagtc agatcttgtg
aatgaagaag caactggcca gttccgggta 420tacccggagc tgcccaagcc
ctccatctcc agcaacaact ccaaacccgt ggaggacaag 480gatgctgtgg
ccttcacctg tgaacctgag actcaggacg caacctacct gtggtgggta
540aacaatcaga gcctcccggt cagtcccagg ctgcagctgt ccaatggcaa
caggaccctc 600actctattca atgtcacaag aaatgacaca gcaagctaca
aatgtgaaac ccagaaccca 660gtgagtgcca ggcgcagtga ttcagtcatc
ctgaatgtcc tctatggccc ggatgccccc 720accatttccc ctctaaacac
atcttacaga tcaggggaaa atctgaacct ctcctgccac 780gcagcctcta
acccacctgc acagtactct tggtttgtca atgggacttt ccagcaatcc
840acccaagagc tctttatccc caacatcact gtgaataata gtggatccta
tacgtgccaa 900gcccataact cagacactgg cctcaatagg accacagtca
cgacgatcac agtctatgca 960gagccaccca aacccttcat caccagcaac
aactccaacc ccgtggagga tgaggatgct 1020gtagccttaa cctgtgaacc
tgagattcag aacacaacct acctgtggtg ggtaaataat 1080cagagcctcc
cggtcagtcc caggctgcag ctgtccaatg acaacaggac cctcactcta
1140ctcagtgtca caaggaatga tgtaggaccc tatgagtgtg gaatccagaa
caaattaagt 1200gttgaccaca gcgacccagt catcctgaat gtcctctatg
gcccagacga ccccaccatt 1260tccccctcat acacctatta ccgtccaggg
gtgaacctca gcctctcctg ccatgcagcc 1320tctaacccac ctgcacagta
ttcttggctg attgatggga acatccagca acacacacaa 1380gagctcttta
tctccaacat cactgagaag aacagcggac tctatacctg ccaggccaat
1440aactcagcca gtggccacag caggactaca gtcaagacaa tcacagtctc
tgcggagctg 1500cccaagccct ccatctccag caacaactcc aaacccgtgg
aggacaagga tgctgtggcc 1560ttcacctgtg aacctgaggc tcagaacaca
acctacctgt ggtgggtaaa tggtcagagc 1620ctcccagtca gtcccaggct
gcagctgtcc aatggcaaca ggaccctcac tctattcaat 1680gtcacaagaa
atgacgcaag agcctatgta tgtggaatcc agaactcagt gagtgcaaac
1740cgcagtgacc cagtcaccct ggatgtcctc tatgggccgg acacccccat
catttccccc 1800ccagactcgt cttacctttc gggagcgaac ctcaacctct
cctgccactc ggcctctaac 1860ccatccccgc agtattcttg gcgtatcaat
gggataccgc agcaacacac acaagttctc 1920tttatcgcca aaatcacgcc
aaataataac gggacctatg cctgttttgt ctctaacttg 1980gctactggcc
gcaataattc catagtcaag agcatcacag tctctgcatc tggaacttct
2040cctggtctct cagctggggc cactgtcggc atcatgattg gagtgctggt
tggggttgct 2100ctgatatag 2109132109DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence
encoding CEA (CEACAM5 GC) (see Figure 13) 13atggagagcc cgtcggcccc
gccgcaccgg tggtgcatcc cctggcagcg cctgctcctg 60accgcgagcc tgctgacgtt
ctggaacccg ccgaccaccg ccaagctgac catcgagagc 120accccgttca
acgtggccga gggcaaggag gtcctgctcc tggtgcacaa cctgccccag
180cacctgttcg ggtacagctg gtacaagggc gagcgggtgg acggcaaccg
gcagatcatc 240ggctacgtga tcggcaccca gcaggccacg ccgggcccgg
cctacagcgg gcgggagatc 300atctacccga acgccagcct gctgatccag
aacatcatcc agaacgacac cggcttctac 360accctccacg tgatcaagtc
ggacctggtg aacgaggagg cgaccggcca gttccgggtc 420tacccggagc
tgccgaagcc cagcatcagc agcaacaaca gcaagccggt ggaggacaag
480gacgccgtgg ccttcacctg cgagccggag acccaggacg ccacgtacct
gtggtgggtg 540aacaaccaga gcctgccggt gtcgccgcgg ctgcagctca
gcaacggcaa ccgcaccctg 600accctgttca acgtgacccg gaacgacacc
gccagctaca agtgcgagac ccagaacccg 660gtcagcgccc ggcggagcga
cagcgtgatc ctgaacgtgc tgtacggccc cgacgcgccg 720acgatctcgc
cgctgaacac cagctaccgg agcggcgaga acctcaacct gagctgccac
780gccgccagca acccgccggc ccagtacagc tggttcgtga acgggacctt
ccagcagtcg 840acccaggagc tgttcatccc gaacatcacc gtgaacaaca
gcggcagcta cacctgccag 900gcccacaaca gcgacacggg cctgaaccgg
accaccgtga ccaccatcac
cgtctacgcc 960gagcccccga agccgttcat cacgagcaac aacagcaacc
cggtggagga cgaggacgcg 1020gtggccctga cctgcgagcc ggagatccag
aacaccacct acctgtggtg ggtgaacaac 1080cagtcgctcc cggtgagccc
ccgcctgcag ctgagcaacg acaaccggac cctgaccctg 1140ctgagcgtga
cgcggaacga cgtcggcccg tacgagtgcg gcatccagaa cgagctcagc
1200gtggaccaca gcgacccggt gatcctgaac gtgctgtacg gcccggacga
cccgaccatc 1260tcgccgagct acacctacta ccggcccggg gtgaacctga
gcctgagctg ccacgccgcc 1320agcaacccgc cggcccagta cagctggctg
atcgacggca acatccagca gcacacccag 1380gagctcttca tctcgaacat
caccgagaag aacagcggcc tgtacacctg ccaggccaac 1440aacagcgcga
gcggccacag ccggacgacc gtgaagacca tcaccgtcag cgccgagctg
1500ccgaagccgt cgatcagcag caacaacagc aagccggtgg aggacaagga
cgccgtggcc 1560ttcacctgcg agcccgaggc ccagaacacc acgtacctgt
ggtgggtgaa cggccagagc 1620ctgccggtga gcccgcggct gcagctctcg
aacggcaacc gcaccctgac cctgttcaac 1680gtgacccgga acgacgcccg
ggcgtacgtc tgcgggatcc agaacagcgt gagcgccaac 1740cggagcgacc
cggtgaccct ggacgtgctg tacggcccgg acaccccgat catcagcccc
1800ccggacagct cgtacctgag cggcgccaac ctcaacctga gctgccacag
cgccagcaac 1860ccgagcccgc agtactcgtg gcggatcaac ggcatcccgc
agcagcacac gcaggtgctg 1920ttcatcgcca agatcacccc gaacaacaac
ggcacctacg cctgcttcgt gagcaacctg 1980gcgaccggcc ggaacaacag
catcgtcaag agcatcaccg tgagcgccag cgggacctcg 2040cccggcctga
gcgccggcgc cacggtgggc atcatgatcg gcgtgctggt gggcgtggcc
2100ctcatctga 210914945DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of
sequence RNA sequence (starting sequence based on the wildtype)
encoding MAGE-A2 (HsMAGE-A2 (melanoma antigen family A, 2)
HsMAGE-A2B).(see Figure 14) 14atgcctcttg agcagaggag tcagcactgc
aagcctgaag aaggccttga ggcccgagga 60gaggccctgg gcctggtggg tgcgcaggct
cctgctactg aggagcagca gaccgcttct 120tcctcttcta ctctagtgga
agttaccctg ggggaggtgc ctgctgccga ctcaccgagt 180cctccccaca
gtcctcaggg agcctccagc ttctcgacta ccatcaacta cactctttgg
240agacaatccg atgagggctc cagcaaccaa gaagaggagg ggccaagaat
gtttcccgac 300ctggagtccg agttccaagc agcaatcagt aggaagatgg
ttgagttggt tcattttctg 360ctcctcaagt atcgagccag ggagccggtc
acaaaggcag aaatgctgga gagtgtcctc 420agaaattgcc aggacttctt
tcccgtgatc ttcagcaaag cctccgagta cttgcagctg 480gtctttggca
tcgaggtggt ggaagtggtc cccatcagcc acttgtacat ccttgtcacc
540tgcctgggcc tctcctacga tggcctgctg ggcgacaatc aggtcatgcc
caagacaggc 600ctcctgataa tcgtcctggc cataatcgca atagagggcg
actgtgcccc tgaggagaaa 660atctgggagg agctgagtat gttggaggtg
tttgagggga gggaggacag tgtcttcgca 720catcccagga agctgctcat
gcaagatctg gtgcaggaaa actacctgga gtaccggcag 780gtgcccggca
gtgatcctgc atgctacgag ttcctgtggg gtccaagggc cctcattgaa
840accagctatg tgaaagtcct gcaccataca ctaaagatcg gtggagaacc
tcacatttcc 900tacccacccc tgcatgaacg ggctttgaga gagggagaag agtga
94515945DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence (GC)
stabilized RNA sequence encoding MAGE-A2 (HsMAGE-A2B GC)(see Figure
15) 15atgcccctgg agcagcggag ccagcactgc aagccggagg agggcctcga
ggcccgcggg 60gaggccctgg gcctggtggg ggcgcaggcc cccgccaccg aggagcagca
gaccgcctcc 120agctccagca cgctcgtcga ggtgaccctg ggcgaggtgc
ccgccgcgga ctcccccagc 180ccgccccact ccccccaggg ggccagctcc
ttcagcacca ccatcaacta cacgctgtgg 240cggcagtccg acgagggcag
ctccaaccag gaggaggagg gcccccgcat gttcccggac 300ctcgagagcg
agttccaggc cgccatctcc cggaagatgg tcgagctggt gcacttcctg
360ctcctgaagt accgcgcgcg ggagcccgtg accaaggccg agatgctgga
gagcgtcctc 420cgcaactgcc aggacttctt ccccgtgatc ttctccaagg
ccagcgagta cctgcagctg 480gtgttcggga tcgaggtcgt ggaggtggtc
cccatctccc acctctacat cctggtgacc 540tgcctgggcc tcagctacga
cgggctgctg ggcgacaacc aggtgatgcc gaagaccggg 600ctcctgatca
tcgtcctggc catcatcgcc atcgagggcg actgcgcgcc cgaggagaag
660atctgggagg agctcagcat gctggaggtg ttcgagggcc gggaggactc
cgtgttcgcc 720cacccccgca agctgctcat gcaggacctg gtccaggaga
actacctgga gtaccggcag 780gtgcccggga gcgacccggc ctgctacgag
ttcctctggg gcccccgcgc cctgatcgag 840acgtcctacg tgaaggtcct
gcaccacacc ctcaagatcg ggggcgagcc ccacatcagc 900tacccgccgc
tgcacgagcg ggccctgcgc gagggcgagg agtga 94516945DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence (starting sequence
based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-A3 (MAGE-A3 (melanoma antigen
family A, 3) MAGE-A3) (see Figure 16) 16atgcctcttg agcagaggag
tcagcactgc aagcctgaag aaggccttga ggcccgagga 60gaggccctgg gcctggtggg
tgcgcaggct cctgctactg aggagcagga ggctgcctcc 120tcctcttcta
ctctagttga agtcaccctg ggggaggtgc ctgctgccga gtcaccagat
180cctccccaga gtcctcaggg agcctccagc ctccccacta ccatgaacta
ccctctctgg 240agccaatcct atgaggactc cagcaaccaa gaagaggagg
ggccaagcac cttccctgac 300ctggagtccg agttccaagc agcactcagt
aggaaggtgg ccgagttggt tcattttctg 360ctcctcaagt atcgagccag
ggagccggtc acaaaggcag aaatgctggg gagtgtcgtc 420ggaaattggc
agtatttctt tcctgtgatc ttcagcaaag cttccagttc cttgcagctg
480gtctttggca tcgagctgat ggaagtggac cccatcggcc acttgtacat
ctttgccacc 540tgcctgggcc tctcctacga tggcctgctg ggtgacaatc
agatcatgcc caaggcaggc 600ctcctgataa tcgtcctggc cataatcgca
agagagggcg actgtgcccc tgaggagaaa 660atctgggagg agctgagtgt
gttagaggtg tttgagggga gggaagacag tatcttgggg 720gatcccaaga
agctgctcac ccaacatttc gtgcaggaaa actacctgga gtaccggcag
780gtccccggca gtgatcctgc atgttatgaa ttcctgtggg gtccaagggc
cctcgttgaa 840accagctatg tgaaagtcct gcaccatatg gtaaagatca
gtggaggacc tcacatttcc 900tacccacccc tgcatgagtg ggttttgaga
gagggggaag agtga 94517945DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of
sequence a (GC) stabilized RNA sequence encoding MAGE-A3 (MAGE-A3
GC) (see Figure 17) 17atgcccctgg agcagcgctc gcagcactgc aagccggagg
agggcctcga ggcccggggc 60gaggccctgg gcctggtggg cgcgcaggcc ccggccaccg
aggagcagga ggccgccagc 120agcagcagca ccctggtgga ggtgaccctg
ggcgaggtgc cggccgcgga gagcccggac 180ccgccccagt cgccgcaggg
ggccagcagc ctgccgacca cgatgaacta cccgctctgg 240agccagagct
acgaggacag ctcgaaccag gaggaggagg gcccgagcac cttcccggac
300ctggagagcg agttccaggc cgccctgagc cggaaggtgg ccgagctggt
ccacttcctg 360ctgctcaagt accgggcccg ggagcccgtg accaaggcgg
agatgctggg cagcgtggtg 420ggcaactggc agtacttctt cccggtgatc
ttcagcaagg cctcgagcag cctgcagctg 480gtgttcggca tcgagctgat
ggaggtcgac ccgatcggcc acctgtacat cttcgccacc 540tgcctcgggc
tgagctacga cggcctgctg ggcgacaacc agatcatgcc gaaggccggc
600ctgctgatca tcgtgctcgc catcatcgcc cgggagggcg actgcgcgcc
ggaggagaag 660atctgggagg agctgagcgt gctggaggtg ttcgagggcc
gcgaggacag catcctgggg 720gacccgaaga agctgctgac ccagcacttc
gtgcaggaga actacctcga gtaccggcag 780gtgcccggct cggacccggc
ctgctacgag ttcctgtggg gcccgcgggc cctggtcgag 840accagctacg
tgaaggtgct gcaccacatg gtgaagatca gcggcggccc gcacatcagc
900tacccgccgc tgcacgagtg ggtgctgcgg gagggcgagg agtga
94518429DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence
(starting sequence based on the wildtype) encoding Survivin
(Survivin (baculoviral IAP repeat-containing 5, BIRC5)
HsSurvivin(wt)); (see Figure 18) 18atgggtgccc cgacgttgcc ccctgcctgg
cagccctttc tcaaggacca ccgcatctct 60acattcaaga actggccctt cttggagggc
tgcgcctgca ccccggagcg gatggccgag 120gctggcttca tccactgccc
cactgagaac gagccagact tggcccagtg tttcttctgc 180ttcaaggagc
tggaaggctg ggagccagat gacgacccca tagaggaaca taaaaagcat
240tcgtccggtt gcgctttcct ttctgtcaag aagcagtttg aagaattaac
ccttggtgaa 300tttttgaaac tggacagaga aagagccaag aacaaaattg
caaaggaaac caacaataag 360aagaaagaat ttgaggaaac tgcgaagaaa
gtgcgccgtg ccatcgagca gctggctgcc 420atggattga 42919429DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence
encoding Survivin (HsSurvivin(GC) (see Figure 19) 19atgggcgccc
ccaccctgcc gccggcctgg cagccgttcc tcaaggacca ccgcatctcg 60accttcaaga
actggccgtt cctggagggc tgcgcgtgca ccccggagcg gatggccgag
120gccggcttca tccactgccc caccgagaac gagccggacc tggcccagtg
cttcttctgc 180ttcaaggagc tggagggctg ggagccggac gacgacccga
tcgaggagca caagaagcac 240agcagcggct gcgccttcct gagcgtgaag
aagcagttcg aggagctgac gctcggggag 300ttcctgaagc tggaccggga
gcgggccaag aacaagatcg cgaaggagac caacaacaag 360aagaaggagt
tcgaggagac cgccaagaag gtgcggcggg ccatcgagca gctggccgcc 420atggactga
42920543DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence
(starting sequence based on the wildtype) encoding NY-ESO-1 (Homo
sapiens NY-ESO-1 (NY-ESO-1(wt)); (see Figure 20) 20atgcaggccg
aaggccgggg cacagggggt tcgacgggcg atgctgatgg cccaggaggc 60cctggcattc
ctgatggccc agggggcaat gctggcggcc caggagaggc gggtgccacg
120ggcggcagag gtccccgggg cgcaggggca gcaagggcct cggggccggg
aggaggcgcc 180ccgcggggtc cgcatggcgg cgcggcttca gggctgaatg
gatgctgcag atgcggggcc 240agggggccgg agagccgcct gcttgagttc
tacctcgcca tgcctttcgc gacacccatg 300gaagcagagc tggcccgcag
gagcctggcc caggatgccc caccgcttcc cgtgccaggg 360gtgcttctga
aggagttcac tgtgtccggc aacatactga ctatccgact gactgctgca
420gaccaccgcc aactgcagct ctccatcagc tcctgtctcc agcagctttc
cctgttgatg 480tggatcacgc agtgctttct gcccgtgttt ttggctcagc
ctccctcagg gcagaggcgc 540taa 54321543DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence (GC) stabilized RNA sequence
encoding NY-ESO-1 (NY-ESO-1(GC)) (see Figure 21) 21atgcaggccg
agggccgcgg caccggcggc tcgaccggcg acgccgacgg gcccggcggc 60ccgggcatcc
cggacggccc gggcgggaac gcgggcggcc cgggcgaggc cggcgccacc
120ggcgggcggg gcccgcgggg cgccggcgcc gcccgggcga gcggccccgg
cgggggcgcc 180ccgcggggcc cgcacggcgg cgccgccagc ggcctgaacg
ggtgctgccg gtgcggcgcc 240cgcggcccgg agagccggct cctggagttc
tacctggcca tgccgttcgc gaccccgatg 300gaggccgagc tggcccggcg
gagcctggcc caggacgccc cgccgctgcc cgtgccgggc 360gtgctcctga
aggagttcac ggtgagcggc aacatcctga ccatccggct gaccgccgcg
420gaccaccggc agctgcagct gtcgatcagc agctgcctcc agcagctgag
cctgctgatg 480tggatcaccc agtgcttcct gccggtgttc ctggcccagc
cgcccagcgg ccagcgccgg 540tga 543223429DNAArtificial
SequenceDescription of sequence RNA sequence (starting sequence
based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-C1 (HsMAGEC1 (melanoma antigen
family C, 1) HsMAGEC1(wt)) (see Figure 22) 22atgggggaca aggatatgcc
tactgctggg atgccgagtc ttctccagag ttcctctgag 60agtcctcaga gttgtcctga
gggggaggac tcccagtctc ctctccagat tccccagagt 120tctcctgaga
gcgacgacac cctgtatcct ctccagagtc ctcagagtcg ttctgagggg
180gaggactcct cggatcctct ccagagacct cctgagggga aggactccca
gtctcctctc 240cagattcccc agagttctcc tgagggcgac gacacccagt
ctcctctcca gaattctcag 300agttctcctg aggggaagga ctccctgtct
cctctagaga tttctcagag ccctcctgag 360ggtgaggatg tccagtctcc
tctgcagaat cctgcgagtt ccttcttctc ctctgcttta 420ttgagtattt
tccagagttc ccctgagagt actcaaagtc cttttgaggg ttttccccag
480tctgttctcc agattcctgt gagcgccgcc tcctcctcca ctttagtgag
tattttccag 540agttcccctg agagtactca aagtcctttt gagggttttc
cccagtctcc actccagatt 600cctgtgagcc gctccttctc ctccacttta
ttgagtattt tccagagttc ccctgagaga 660actcagagta cttttgaggg
ttttgcccag tctcctctcc agattcctgt gagcccctcc 720tcctcctcca
ctttactgag tcttttccag agtttctctg agagaactca gagtactttt
780gagggttttg cccagtcttc tctccagatt cctgtgagcc cctccttctc
ctccacttta 840gtgagtcttt tccagagttc ccctgagaga actcagagta
cttttgaggg ttttccccag 900tctcctctcc agattcctgt gagctcctcc
tcctcctcca ctttattgag tcttttccag 960agttcccctg agagaactca
cagtactttt gagggttttc cccagtctct tctccagatt 1020cctatgacct
cctccttctc ctctacttta ttgagtattt tccagagttc tcctgagagt
1080gctcaaagta cttttgaggg ttttccccag tctcctctcc agattcctgg
gagcccctcc 1140ttctcctcca ctttactgag tcttttccag agttcccctg
agagaactca cagtactttt 1200gagggttttc cccagtctcc tctccagatt
cctatgacct cctccttctc ctctacttta 1260ttgagtattt tacagagttc
tcctgagagt gctcaaagtg cttttgaggg ttttccccag 1320tctcctctcc
agattcctgt gagctcctct ttctcctaca ctttattgag tcttttccag
1380agttcccctg agagaactca cagtactttt gagggttttc cccagtctcc
tctccagatt 1440cctgtgagct cctcctcctc ctcctccact ttattgagtc
ttttccagag ttcccctgag 1500tgtactcaaa gtacttttga gggttttccc
cagtctcctc tccagattcc tcagagtcct 1560cctgaagggg agaataccca
ttctcctctc cagattgttc caagtcttcc tgagtgggag 1620gactccctgt
ctcctcacta ctttcctcag agccctcctc agggggagga ctccctatct
1680cctcactact ttcctcagag ccctcctcag ggggaggact ccctgtctcc
tcactacttt 1740cctcagagcc ctcaggggga ggactccctg tctcctcact
actttcctca gagccctcct 1800cagggggagg actccatgtc tcctctctac
tttcctcaga gtcctcttca gggggaggaa 1860ttccagtctt ctctccagag
ccctgtgagc atctgctcct cctccactcc atccagtctt 1920ccccagagtt
tccctgagag ttctcagagt cctcctgagg ggcctgtcca gtctcctctc
1980catagtcctc agagccctcc tgaggggatg cactcccaat ctcctctcca
gagtcctgag 2040agtgctcctg agggggagga ttccctgtct cctctccaaa
ttcctcagag tcctcttgag 2100ggagaggact ccctgtcttc tctccatttt
cctcagagtc ctcctgagtg ggaggactcc 2160ctctctcctc tccactttcc
tcagtttcct cctcaggggg aggacttcca gtcttctctc 2220cagagtcctg
tgagtatctg ctcctcctcc acttctttga gtcttcccca gagtttccct
2280gagagtcctc agagtcctcc tgaggggcct gctcagtctc ctctccagag
acctgtcagc 2340tccttcttct cctacacttt agcgagtctt ctccaaagtt
cccatgagag tcctcagagt 2400cctcctgagg ggcctgccca gtctcctctc
cagagtcctg tgagctcctt cccctcctcc 2460acttcatcga gtctttccca
gagttctcct gtgagctcct tcccctcctc cacttcatcg 2520agtctttcca
agagttcccc tgagagtcct ctccagagtc ctgtgatctc cttctcctcc
2580tccacttcat tgagcccatt cagtgaagag tccagcagcc cagtagatga
atatacaagt 2640tcctcagaca ccttgctaga gagtgattcc ttgacagaca
gcgagtcctt gatagagagc 2700gagcccttgt tcacttatac actggatgaa
aaggtggacg agttggcgcg gtttcttctc 2760ctcaaatatc aagtgaagca
gcctatcaca aaggcagaga tgctgacgaa tgtcatcagc 2820aggtacacgg
gctactttcc tgtgatcttc aggaaagccc gtgagttcat agagatactt
2880tttggcattt ccctgagaga agtggaccct gatgactcct atgtctttgt
aaacacatta 2940gacctcacct ctgaggggtg tctgagtgat gagcagggca
tgtcccagaa ccgcctcctg 3000attcttattc tgagtatcat cttcataaag
ggcacctatg cctctgagga ggtcatctgg 3060gatgtgctga gtggaatagg
ggtgcgtgct gggagggagc actttgcctt tggggagccc 3120agggagctcc
tcactaaagt ttgggtgcag gaacattacc tagagtaccg ggaggtgccc
3180aactcttctc ctcctcgtta cgaattcctg tggggtccaa gagctcattc
agaagtcatt 3240aagaggaaag tagtagagtt tttggccatg ctaaagaata
ccgtccctat tacctttcca 3300tcctcttaca aggatgcttt gaaagatgtg
gaagagagag cccaggccat aattgacacc 3360acagatgatt cgactgccac
agaaagtgca agctccagtg tcatgtcccc cagcttctct 3420tctgagtga
3429233429DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence (GC)
stabilized RNA sequence encoding MAGE-C1 (HsMAGEC1(GC),(see Figure
23) 23atgggcgaca aggacatgcc caccgccggg atgccgagcc tgctccagtc
cagctccgag 60agcccccagt cctgccccga gggcgaggac agccagtccc ccctgcagat
cccgcagagc 120tcccccgaga gcgacgacac cctgtacccc ctccagtccc
cgcagagccg gtccgagggg 180gaggacagct ccgacccgct gcagcgcccc
cccgagggca aggacagcca gtccccgctg 240cagatcccgc agagctcccc
cgagggggac gacacgcaga gccccctcca gaacagccag 300tccagccccg
agggcaagga ctccctgagc ccgctggaga tctcccagag cccccccgag
360ggcgaggacg tgcagtcccc gctccagaac ccggccagct ccttcttcag
ctccgcgctg 420ctgagcatct tccagtccag ccccgagtcc acccagagcc
ccttcgaggg gttcccccag 480tccgtcctcc agatcccggt gagcgccgcc
tccagcagca ccctggtgtc catcttccag 540agctcccccg agagcaccca
gtcccccttc gagggcttcc cccagagccc gctgcagatc 600cccgtgtccc
ggagcttctc cagcacgctc ctgtccatct tccagagctc ccccgagcgc
660acccagagca ccttcgaggg gttcgcccag tccccgctgc agatccccgt
gagcccctcc 720agcagctcca ccctcctgag cctgttccag tccttcagcg
agcggacgca gtccaccttc 780gagggcttcg cccagagctc cctccagatc
cccgtgagcc cgtccttcag ctccaccctg 840gtcagcctgt tccagtccag
ccccgagcgc acccagtcca cgttcgaggg gttcccccag 900agccccctcc
agatcccggt gtccagctcc agcagctcca ccctgctgag cctcttccag
960tccagccccg agcggaccca ctccaccttc gagggcttcc cccagagcct
gctgcagatc 1020cccatgacgt ccagcttctc cagcaccctc ctgtccatct
tccagagctc cccggagagc 1080gcgcagtcca ccttcgaggg cttcccccag
agccccctgc agatccccgg gtccccgagc 1140ttctccagca ccctcctgag
cctgttccag tccagccccg agcgcacgca ctccaccttc 1200gagggcttcc
cccagagccc cctccagatc ccgatgacct ccagcttctc cagcaccctg
1260ctgtccatcc tccagagctc ccccgagagc gcccagtccg ccttcgaggg
gttcccccag 1320agccccctgc agatcccggt gtccagctcc ttcagctaca
cgctgctctc cctgttccag 1380agcagccccg agcggaccca ctccaccttc
gagggcttcc cccagagccc gctgcagatc 1440cccgtgtcca gctccagctc
cagctccacc ctcctgagcc tgttccagtc cagccccgag 1500tgcacgcagt
ccaccttcga gggcttcccc cagagcccgc tgcagatccc ccagtccccc
1560cccgaggggg agaacaccca cagcccgctc cagatcgtgc cctccctgcc
cgagtgggag 1620gacagcctgt ccccgcacta cttcccgcag agccccccgc
agggcgagga cagcctctcc 1680ccccactact tcccgcagag cccgccccag
ggggaggact ccctgagccc ccactacttc 1740ccgcagtccc cccagggcga
ggacagcctg tccccgcact acttccccca gagcccgccc 1800cagggggagg
actccatgag ccccctctac ttcccccagt ccccgctgca gggcgaggag
1860ttccagagct ccctgcagag ccccgtgtcc atctgcagct ccagcacccc
ctccagcctc 1920ccgcagagct tccccgagtc cagccagtcc ccccccgagg
gcccggtcca gagccccctg 1980cactccccgc agagcccccc ggaggggatg
cactcccaga gccccctgca gtcccccgag 2040agcgcccccg agggcgagga
ctccctcagc ccgctgcaga tcccccagtc cccgctggag 2100ggggaggaca
gcctctccag cctgcacttc ccccagtccc cgcccgagtg ggaggacagc
2160ctgagccccc tccacttccc ccagttcccg ccccagggcg aggacttcca
gtccagcctg 2220cagtcccccg tgagcatctg ctccagctcc acgagcctgt
ccctccccca gagcttcccg 2280gagtcccccc agagcccgcc cgaggggccg
gcgcagtccc ccctgcagcg ccccgtgagc 2340tccttcttca gctacaccct
ggcctccctc ctgcagagct cccacgagag cccgcagagc 2400ccgcccgagg
gccccgccca gtccccgctg cagagccccg tgtccagctt cccctccagc
2460acctccagct ccctcagcca gtccagcccc gtgtccagct tcccgtccag
cacctccagc 2520tccctgagca agagctcccc cgagagcccc ctgcagtccc
ccgtgatcag cttctccagc 2580tccacgagcc tctccccgtt cagcgaggag
tccagctccc ccgtcgacga gtacaccagc 2640tccagcgaca ccctgctgga
gtccgacagc ctcaccgact ccgagagcct gatcgagagc 2700gagcccctgt
tcacctacac gctcgacgag aaggtggacg agctggcccg gttcctgctc
2760ctgaagtacc aggtgaagca gcccatcacc aaggccgaga tgctgaccaa
cgtcatctcc 2820cgctacaccg gctacttccc
ggtgatcttc cggaaggcgc gcgagttcat cgagatcctc 2880ttcgggatca
gcctgcggga ggtggacccc gacgactcct acgtcttcgt gaacacgctg
2940gacctcacca gcgagggctg cctgtccgac gagcagggga tgagccagaa
ccgcctgctc 3000atcctgatcc tgtccatcat cttcatcaag ggcacctacg
ccagcgagga ggtcatctgg 3060gacgtgctct ccgggatcgg cgtgcgggcc
ggccgcgagc acttcgcctt cggggagccc 3120cgggagctgc tgaccaaggt
ctgggtgcag gagcactacc tcgagtaccg cgaggtgccc 3180aacagctccc
cgccccggta cgagttcctg tggggccccc gcgcccacag cgaggtcatc
3240aagcggaagg tggtggagtt cctggcgatg ctcaagaaca cggtccccat
caccttcccg 3300tccagctaca aggacgccct gaaggacgtg gaggagcggg
cccaggccat catcgacacc 3360accgacgact ccacggccac cgagagcgcg
tccagctccg tgatgagccc cagcttctcc 3420agcgagtga
3429241596DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence (GC)
stabilized RNA sequence encoding a truncated MAGE-C1 (HsMAGEC1(GC),
(see Figure 24) 24atgcagtccc cgctgcaggg cgaggagttc cagagctccc
tgcagagccc cgtgtccatc 60tgcagctcca gcaccccctc cagcctcccg cagagcttcc
ccgagtccag ccagtccccc 120cccgagggcc cggtccagag ccccctgcac
tccccgcaga gccccccgga ggggatgcac 180tcccagagcc ccctgcagtc
ccccgagagc gcccccgagg gcgaggactc cctcagcccg 240ctgcagatcc
cccagtcccc gctggagggg gaggacagcc tctccagcct gcacttcccc
300cagtccccgc ccgagtggga ggacagcctg agccccctcc acttccccca
gttcccgccc 360cagggcgagg acttccagtc cagcctgcag tcccccgtga
gcatctgctc cagctccacg 420agcctgtccc tcccccagag cttcccggag
tccccccaga gcccgcccga ggggccggcg 480cagtcccccc tgcagcgccc
cgtgagctcc ttcttcagct acaccctggc ctccctcctg 540cagagctccc
acgagagccc gcagagcccg cccgagggcc ccgcccagtc cccgctgcag
600agccccgtgt ccagcttccc ctccagcacc tccagctccc tcagccagtc
cagccccgtg 660tccagcttcc cgtccagcac ctccagctcc ctgagcaaga
gctcccccga gagccccctg 720cagtcccccg tgatcagctt ctccagctcc
acgagcctct ccccgttcag cgaggagtcc 780agctcccccg tcgacgagta
caccagctcc agcgacaccc tgctggagtc cgacagcctc 840accgactccg
agagcctgat cgagagcgag cccctgttca cctacacgct cgacgagaag
900gtggacgagc tggcccggtt cctgctcctg aagtaccagg tgaagcagcc
catcaccaag 960gccgagatgc tgaccaacgt catctcccgc tacaccggct
acttcccggt gatcttccgg 1020aaggcgcgcg agttcatcga gatcctcttc
gggatcagcc tgcgggaggt ggaccccgac 1080gactcctacg tcttcgtgaa
cacgctggac ctcaccagcg agggctgcct gtccgacgag 1140caggggatga
gccagaaccg cctgctcatc ctgatcctgt ccatcatctt catcaagggc
1200acctacgcca gcgaggaggt catctgggac gtgctctccg ggatcggcgt
gcgggccggc 1260cgcgagcact tcgccttcgg ggagccccgg gagctgctga
ccaaggtctg ggtgcaggag 1320cactacctcg agtaccgcga ggtgcccaac
agctccccgc cccggtacga gttcctgtgg 1380ggcccccgcg cccacagcga
ggtcatcaag cggaaggtgg tggagttcct ggcgatgctc 1440aagaacacgg
tccccatcac cttcccgtcc agctacaagg acgccctgaa ggacgtggag
1500gagcgggccc aggccatcat cgacaccacc gacgactcca cggccaccga
gagcgcgtcc 1560agctccgtga tgagccccag cttctccagc gagtga
1596251122DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence RNA
sequence (starting sequence based on the wildtype) encoding MAGE-C2
(HsMAGE-C2 (melanoma antigen family C, 2)HsMAGE-C2);(see Figure 25)
25atgcctcccg ttccaggcgt tccattccgc aacgttgaca acgactcccc gacctcagtt
60gagttagaag actgggtaga tgcacagcat cccacagatg aggaagagga ggaagcctcc
120tccgcctctt ccactttgta cttagtattt tccccctctt ctttctccac
atcctcttct 180ctgattcttg gtggtcctga ggaggaggag gtgccctctg
gtgtgatacc aaatcttacc 240gagagcattc ccagtagtcc tccacagggt
cctccacagg gtccttccca gagtcctctg 300agctcctgct gctcctcttt
ttcatggagc tcattcagtg aggagtccag cagccagaaa 360ggggaggata
caggcacctg tcagggcctg ccagacagtg agtcctcttt cacatataca
420ctagatgaaa aggtggccga gttagtggag ttcctgctcc tcaaatacga
agcagaggag 480cctgtaacag aggcagagat gctgatgatt gtcatcaagt
acaaagatta ctttcctgtg 540atactcaaga gagcccgtga gttcatggag
cttctttttg gccttgccct gatagaagtg 600ggccctgacc acttctgtgt
gtttgcaaac acagtaggcc tcaccgatga gggtagtgat 660gatgagggca
tgcccgagaa cagcctcctg attattattc tgagtgtgat cttcataaag
720ggcaactgtg cctctgagga ggtcatctgg gaagtgctga atgcagtagg
ggtatatgct 780gggagggagc acttcgtcta tggggagcct agggagctcc
tcactaaagt ttgggtgcag 840ggacattacc tggagtatcg ggaggtgccc
cacagttctc ctccatatta tgaattcctg 900tggggtccaa gagcccattc
agaaagcatc aagaagaaag tactagagtt tttagccaag 960ctgaacaaca
ctgttcctag ttcctttcca tcctggtaca aggatgcttt gaaagatgtg
1020gaagagagag tccaggccac aattgatacc gcagatgatg ccactgtcat
ggccagtgaa 1080agcctcagtg tcatgtccag caacgtctcc ttttctgagt ga
1122261122DNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence (GC)
stabilized RNA sequence encoding MAGE-C2 (HsMAGE-C2 GC) (see Figure
26) 26atgcccccgg tgcccggcgt ccccttccgg aacgtggaca acgacagccc
cacctccgtg 60gagctggagg actgggtcga cgcccagcac ccgaccgacg aggaggagga
ggaggccagc 120tccgcgagct ccacgctcta cctggtgttc agcccctcca
gcttctccac cagctccagc 180ctgatcctcg ggggccccga ggaggaggag
gtgccctccg gggtcatccc gaacctgacc 240gagagcatcc cctccagccc
cccgcagggc ccgccccagg ggccctccca gagccccctg 300tccagctgct
gcagctcctt cagctggtcc agcttctccg aggagagctc cagccagaag
360ggcgaggaca ccggcacgtg ccaggggctc ccggactccg agagctcctt
cacctacacc 420ctggacgaga aggtggccga gctggtggag ttcctcctgc
tgaagtacga ggccgaggag 480cccgtcaccg aggccgagat gctcatgatc
gtgatcaagt acaaggacta cttccccgtg 540atcctgaagc gcgcccggga
gttcatggag ctgctcttcg gcctggcgct gatcgaggtc 600gggcccgacc
acttctgcgt gttcgccaac acggtgggcc tcaccgacga ggggagcgac
660gacgagggca tgccggagaa ctccctgctg atcatcatcc tcagcgtcat
cttcatcaag 720ggcaactgcg cctccgagga ggtgatctgg gaggtgctga
acgccgtcgg ggtgtacgcg 780ggccgcgagc acttcgtgta cggggagccc
cgggagctgc tcaccaaggt ctgggtgcag 840ggccactacc tggagtaccg
cgaggtgccg cacagctccc ccccgtacta cgagttcctg 900tggggccccc
gggcccacag cgagtccatc aagaagaagg tcctcgagtt cctggccaag
960ctgaacaaca ccgtgcccag cagcttcccc tcctggtaca aggacgccct
caaggacgtc 1020gaggagcgcg tgcaggccac gatcgacacc gcggacgacg
ccaccgtgat ggccagcgag 1080tccctgagcg tcatgtccag caacgtgtcc
ttcagcgagt ga 11222713RNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence
Kozak-sequence (see description p. 36) 27gccgccacca ugg
132813RNAArtificial SequenceDescription of sequence generic
stabilizing sequence contained in the 3'UTR of the very stable RNA
which codes for alpha-globin, alpha(I)-collagen, 15-lipoxygenase or
for tyrosine hydroxylase (see description p. 50) 28nccacccnuc ncc
13
* * * * *