A new biologically inspired “injectable cryogel whole-cell cancer vaccine” combines patient-specific harvested cancer cells and immune-stimulating chemicals or biological molecules to help the body attack cancer. This new approach is simpler and more economical than other cancer cell transplantation therapies, which harvest tumor cells and then genetically engineer them to trigger immune responses once they are transplanted back into the patient’s body, the researchers say. Minimally Invasive Cryogels The new anti-cancer vaccine uses the patient’s own cancer cells to trigger immune responses.
The cryogels are a type of hydrogel made up of hydrophilic (water-compatible) polymer chains that are cross-linked and can hold up to 99 percent water. They are created by freezing a solution of the polymer that is in the process of gelling. When thawed back again to room temperature, the substance…
