Therapeutic idiotype vaccines in B lymphoproliferative diseases.

The recognition of the surface immunoglobulin protein of the tumour B cells as a specific tumour antigen has prompted the development of vaccination strategies aimed at the induction of humoral and cellular antitumour responses. Results obtained in preclinical models of B lymphoproliferative diseases, as well as in initial clinical trials, have shown the immunogenic potential of the idiotype (Id) when administered in association with proper adjuvants. The definitive evidence for clinical efficacy of this therapeutic approach awaits ongoing randomised Phase III studies. Research efforts at present include identification of new vaccination settings to improve the clinical benefit of vaccine treatment, the establishment of more convenient methods to produce individual Id vaccines and the development of new strategies of vaccination, including genetic vaccination.