Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has revealed its selection to spearhead a groundbreaking trial centred around the development of a personalised cancer vaccine.

The esteemed Torbay Hospital's research and development department will play a pivotal role in this transformative initiative, extending its support to cancer patients who face the risk of disease recurrence. The vaccine, a collaborative effort between BioNTech and GeneNTech, draws inspiration from the successful MRNA technology employed in previous Covid-19 Vaccines.

In this cutting-edge trial, eligible participants will undergo a comprehensive analysis of their cancer mutation, paving the way for the creation of a tailored vaccine that precisely targets an individual’s specific tumour. The primary objective remains to empower the immune system, enabling it to recognise and potentially thwart the resurgence of cancer.

Dr. Nangi Lo, the medical oncology lead for the trust, expressed optimism about the study's potential to bring tangible benefits to cancer patients across the South West. Dr. Nangi Lo underscored the significance of evaluating bespoke vaccines within clinical trials as a crucial step toward enhancing outcomes.