Chris Jones, 68, from Hoylake, Wirral, is taking part in a new clinical trial at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool. She has advanced non-small cell lung cancer, which accounts for over 80% of all lung cancers.
The experimental vaccine is designed using cells from Ms Jones's own tumour to create synthetic DNA. This process aims to boost the immune system and make immunotherapy more effective, particularly for patients whose cancer has developed resistance.
Medical Oncology Consultant Dr Carles Escriu noted that about half of patients treated with immunotherapy experience an initial response but their cancer eventually becomes resistant. The trial aims to achieve a long-term response in such cases.
Ms Jones will receive seven doses over the next 24 weeks. Researchers hope this early stage trial will improve care for more than half of patients with advanced lung cancer.