Compositions and methods for WT1 specific immunotherapy

Abstract

Compositions and methods for the therapy of malignant diseases, such as leukemia and cancer, are disclosed. The compositions comprise one or more of a WT1 polynucleotide, a WT1 polypeptide, an antigen-presenting cell presenting a WT1 polypeptide, an antibody that specifically binds to a WT1 polypeptide; or a T cell that specifically reacts with a WT1 polypeptide. Such compositions may be used, for example, for the prevention and treatment of metastatic diseases.

1 . A composition comprising a polypeptide consisting of SEQ ID NO:2 and non-specific immune response enhancer.  
     
     
         2 . A composition according to  claim 1 , wherein the non-specific immune response enhancer is an adjuvant.  
     
     
         3 . A composition comprising: 
 (a) a polypeptide consisting of SEQ ID NO:2; and    (b) a non-specific immune response enhancer that preferentially enhances a T cell response in a mammal.    
     
     
         4 . A composition according to  claim 3 , wherein the non-specific immune response enhancer is selected from the group consisting of Montanide ISA50, Seppic Montanide ISA 720, a cytokine, a microsphere, dimethyl dioctadecyl ammoniumbromide (DDA) based adjuvants, AS-1, AS-2, Ribi Adjuvant system based adjuvant, QS21, saponin based adjuvants, Syntex adjuvant in its microfluidized form, MV, ddMV, immune stimulating complex (iscom) based adjuvants, and inactivated toxins.  
     
     
         5 . The composition of  claim 4 , wherein said cytokine is selected from the group consisting of GM-CSF and Flt3-ligand.