GSK and University of Oxford Launch Cancer Prevention Research Program with £50 Million Investment

GSK and University of Oxford Launch Cancer Prevention Research Program with £50 Million Investment

(IN BRIEF) GSK and the University of Oxford have launched the GSK-Oxford Cancer Immuno-Prevention Programme, a new research initiative focused on cancer prevention through vaccination. GSK is investing up to £50 million to explore how precancerous cells develop into cancer, leveraging Oxford’s expertise in neoantigen sequencing and immune system research. The partnership aims to create new therapeutic approaches to prevent cancer by targeting precancerous cells before they progress to full cancer. The program builds on the ongoing relationship between GSK and Oxford, including their previous collaboration on the Institute of Molecular and Computational Medicine. The collaboration is seen as a major step in the fight against cancer, combining strengths in immuno-oncology, vaccinology, and clinical research.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 27-Jan-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — GSK Plc (LON: GSK), a British multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company, and the University of Oxford have joined forces in a groundbreaking new research collaboration aimed at exploring the potential of cancer prevention through vaccination. The partnership, known as the GSK-Oxford Cancer Immuno-Prevention Programme, will focus on translational research to study the biology of precancerous cells, seeking to uncover crucial insights into how cancer develops in humans. The initiative, which builds on their existing relationship, sees GSK investing up to £50 million over the next three years to support this vital early-stage research.

The collaboration leverages Oxford’s world-leading expertise in precancer biology, including the identification and sequencing of neoantigens—tumor-specific proteins that prompt the immune system to target cancerous cells. This specialized focus aims to pinpoint the weaknesses of precancerous cells, potentially leading to vaccines or targeted therapies that can intervene early in the cancer development process, before cells progress to full-blown cancer.

Tony Wood, Chief Scientific Officer at GSK, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, “This collaboration enhances our relationship with Oxford University and unites the deep knowledge of both GSK and Oxford scientists. By delving into precancer biology and leveraging GSK’s immune system expertise, we aim to unlock critical insights for individuals at risk of developing cancer.”

Professor Irene Tracey, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, also welcomed the partnership, adding, “This collaboration marks a significant advancement in cancer research. By bringing together experts in clinical trials, immuno-oncology, vaccinology, and precancer research, we aim to pave the way for cancer vaccines that could bring hope to patients worldwide.”

Peter Kyle, Science and Technology Secretary, acknowledged the importance of the collaboration, emphasizing the potential to revolutionize cancer treatment. “Through partnerships like this, we can harness the power of science and innovation to change the future of cancer diagnosis and treatment. The Government is committed to supporting research like this as part of our Plan for Change, which will not only improve public health but also strengthen our economy.”

This new program builds on the strong partnership between GSK and Oxford, further combining GSK’s expertise in immunology and global development with Oxford’s leading research and clinical capabilities. The collaboration follows the establishment of the GSK-Oxford Institute of Molecular and Computational Medicine in 2021, which has already made strides in advancing research in neurodegeneration and accelerating the development of new medicines using cutting-edge technologies such as machine learning and functional genomics.

About the University of Oxford
Oxford University has been placed number 1 in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings for the eighth year running, and number 3 in the QS World Rankings 2025. At the heart of this success are the twin-pillars of our ground-breaking research and innovation and our distinctive educational offer.

Oxford is world-famous for research and teaching excellence and home to some of the most talented people from across the globe. Our work helps the lives of millions, solving real-world problems through a huge network of partnerships and collaborations. The breadth and interdisciplinary nature of our research alongside our personalised approach to teaching sparks imaginative and inventive insights and solutions.

About GSK
GSK is a global biopharma company with a purpose to unite science, technology, and talent to get ahead of disease together. Find out more at gsk.com.

Oxford enquiries
For further information or to arrange an interview, please contact Christopher McIntyre, University of Oxford press office at news.office@admin.ox.ac.uk or on +44 (0)1865 280528.

Interview opportunities are available with Professor Sarah Blagden, Professor of Experimental Oncology at the University of Oxford, who is the Oxford Director for the GSK-Oxford Cancer Immuno-Prevention Programme.

Cautionary statement regarding forward-looking statements
GSK cautions investors that any forward-looking statements or projections made by GSK, including those made in this announcement, are subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Such factors include, but are not limited to, those described under Item 3.D “Risk factors” in GSK’s Annual Report on Form 20-F for 2023, and GSK’s Q3 Results for 2024.

SOURCE: GlaxoSmithKline plc