Definition

A fusion DNA vaccine containing the first domain of fragment C (FrC) of tetanus toxin (TT865-1120) (p.DOM) fused to the human Wilms’ Tumor gene-1 (WT1)-derived MHC class I-binding epitope WT1.37, with potential antitumor activity. Upon vaccination with p.DOM-WT1-37 DNA and subsequent electroporation, this vaccine may induce a WT1 epitope-specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response against WT1 expressing cells, resulting in cell lysis and inhibition of cancer cell proliferation in WT1-overexpressing cancer cells. WT1, a tumor associated antigen, is overexpressed in most types of leukemia and in a variety of solid cancers. The FrC of tetanus toxin contains the MHC II-binding sequence, p30, which induces T-helper cell activation for long-lasting immunity.