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Highlights
Scancell reports Phase II data from Modi-1 trial in melanoma using peptide vaccine with checkpoint inhibitors.
Disease control and immune response observed across multiple patient groups.
Combination treatment with checkpoint inhibitors well tolerated in trial setting.
Scancell Holdings (LSE:SCLP), operating in the biotechnology sector, has announced new clinical trial findings related to its peptide-based cancer vaccine, Modi-1. The company has released updated results from its ongoing Phase II ModiFY trial targeting solid tumours, including melanoma, using Modi-1 in combination with immune checkpoint inhibitors.
ModiFY Trial Progress in Melanoma
The ModiFY trial is focused on evaluating Modi-1 across several cancer types, with an emphasis on melanoma, head and neck, triple negative breast, and renal tumours. Modi-1 is designed to stimulate the immune system by presenting tumour-associated peptides that help generate T-cell activity.
The trial includes several patient cohorts receiving Modi-1 alone or alongside checkpoint inhibitors such as nivolumab and ipilimumab. According to the company’s update, patients with melanoma receiving Modi-1 in combination with checkpoint inhibitors demonstrated signs of disease control, including tumour response and delayed disease progression in some cases. Immune response was detected through blood sample analysis, confirming the activation of T-cells targeting vaccine peptides.
Immune Activation and Safety Observations
Most evaluable participants receiving Modi-1 showed a measurable immune response, reflecting activation of T-cells directed at the cancer-related antigens. The data suggest a consistent immune signature in patients, aligning with earlier preclinical and clinical evidence shared by the company.
The combination of Modi-1 with checkpoint inhibitors was reported to be well tolerated across study cohorts. Injection site inflammation was observed in line with expected immune activation. No new safety concerns were identified, and the treatment appeared manageable in outpatient clinical settings.
Broader Application and Trial Expansion
Scancell has continued expanding the ModiFY trial by opening new cohorts to further explore the impact of Modi-1 with various checkpoint inhibitors. New patient enrolment within the melanoma cohort and additional cancer types has been underway. Participants who received Modi-1 across extended dosing schedules completed multiple cycles of treatment.
The design of the study allows for comparison across immune checkpoint inhibitor-naïve and pretreated patients. The aim is to gain a better understanding of how the vaccine operates under different immune conditions. This provides an opportunity to monitor immune profiles across diverse tumour environments.
Pipeline and Development Strategy
In addition to Modi-1, Scancell’s broader pipeline includes the Modi-2 vaccine and SCIB1, a DNA vaccine also targeting melanoma. The company's technology platforms—Moditope and ImmunoBody—are at the core of its immunotherapy approach, both aiming to generate sustained T-cell responses against solid tumours.
The company is also engaged in collaborative efforts with external research organisations and clinical partners. These collaborations support sample processing, immune marker evaluation, and the integration of emerging data to shape future trial protocols. The company’s development strategy continues to focus on expanding therapeutic combinations involving its core vaccine platforms.
