Possible cancer vaccine found by accident

NEW YORK (KABC) -- Researchers working to find a cure for cancer have discovered a possible vaccine, and they say it was found by accident.

It all started when a doctor at Roswell Park Cancer Institute discovered a drug used for many years to prevent the rejection of organ transplants also produces immune cells that have a memory.

The cells always remembered cancer cells are bad and should be attacked.

"It is kind of serendipitous because we just tested this concept that came from nowhere in a laboratory setting, and it did work. It's hard to imagine," said Dr. Protul Shrikant of Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Clinical trials are about to begin, but even if the tests are successful, it may take years before the vaccine could be marketed.

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