Breast cancer remains one of the most common and challenging diseases affecting women worldwide. According to the breast cancer statistics provided by the World Health Organization [1], more than 2.3 million women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2022, and over 670,000 deaths were attributed to the disease globally.
Over the past decades, significant progress has been made in breast cancer treatment. In particular, there is a growing focus on the role of the immune system in fighting cancer. Researchers have discovered that breast cancer cells can evade immune detection by suppressing immune responses or disguising themselves as healthy tissue. This has led to the development of immune-based therapy approaches that aim to "teach" the immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. [2]
Among these innovative methods, dendritic cells therapy for breast cancer has been recognized as a promising strategy. This therapy stimulates the patient's own immune system to detect and attack tumor-specific antigens, significantly improving outcomes for both early and late-stage breast cancer. [2]
As a result, many cancer patients are now turning to innovative breast cancer treatment options like dendritic cell immunotherapy, especially in countries like Germany, where advanced biotechnology and clinical expertise are readily available.
What is Dendritic Cell Therapy and How It Works
Dendritic cell therapy is a form of personalized cancer therapy that reprograms the body's own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells. Unlike conventional treatments that attack both healthy and cancerous tissue, dendritic cell immunotherapy trains the immune system to target only the tumor, offering a highly specific solution for patients with various cancers, including breast cancer. [2-4]
The Role of Dendritic Cells
Dendritic cells are a rare but critical type of immune cells known as antigen-presenting cells. Their primary function is to identify foreign invaders or abnormal tumor cells, break them down into components called tumor antigens, and present these to T-cells, which then become activated to destroy anything displaying those antigens. This is called the immune activation process, and it is the foundation of cancer immunity. [2, 4]
Once prepared, T-cells circulate in the blood, scanning for and eliminating cancer cells – not just in the original tumor, but also in distant sites where metastasis may have occurred. It is important to note that these T-cells develop memory, meaning they can offer long-term protection against recurrence. [2, 4]
Nobel Prize-Winning Science
The foundation of this approach was laid by Ralph M. Steinman, who discovered dendritic cells in the 1970s. In recognition of his work, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 2011, even posthumously. His discovery revolutionized the understanding of immune-based therapy and directly led to the development of cancer vaccines that empower the immune system to eradicate cancer. [2]
Indications for Dendritic Cell Vaccination in Breast Cancer
Dendritic cell vaccination is an innovative addition to the field of cancer care, showing particular benefit for both early-stage breast cancer and metastatic breast cancer. As discussed earlier, this personalized form of immunotherapy enhances the body's ability to recognize and destroy tumor cells, making it especially valuable in cases where conventional therapy may not be sufficient or tolerated. [2, 4]
When is Dendritic Cell Therapy Recommended?
- After surgery for early-stage breast cancer: For women diagnosed with early breast cancer (stages I-II), dendritic cell vaccines are often administered postoperatively to prevent recurrence. Following breast tumor removal, there is still a risk that undetected cancer cells may remain in the body. However, DC vaccination helps stimulate a lasting immune response, training T-cells to recognize and eliminate any residual malignant cells.
- For triple-negative and other hard-to-treat cancers: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), which lacks estrogen, progesterone, and HER2 receptors, is highly resistant to standard therapies. DC vaccination offers a valuable alternative or complement, as it can help the immune system recognize cancer-specific markers that are otherwise untargeted by hormone or targeted therapies.
- In cases of metastasis or advanced disease: In metastatic breast cancer, where the disease has spread to distant organs, the immune system often becomes suppressed or exhausted. Dendritic cell therapy can reinvigorate immune surveillance by enhancing the activity of T-cells against metastatic tumor cells.
For patients with resistance to chemotherapy: Patients who are unable to tolerate chemotherapy due to toxicity or who have developed resistance may benefit from this low-toxicity immunologic approach.
Benefits of Dendritic Cell Therapy Over Conventional Treatments
Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy remain standard elements of breast cancer treatment. However, each of these methods comes with limitations – ranging from high toxicity to eventual treatment resistance. In contrast, dendritic cell therapy offers a low-toxicity cancer therapy that works by activating the patient's immune system, resulting in fewer side effects and more durable protection against cancer recurrence. [3]
| Treatment | Benefits | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Surgery | Removes primary breast tumors | 10-20% risk of local recurrence |
| Chemotherapy | Slows tumor growth, useful in advanced disease | Hair loss, nausea, and immune suppression – up to 30% discontinue treatment |
| Radiation therapy | Reduces local recurrence post-surgery | Long-term skin damage, fatigue |
| Hormone therapy | Improves survival in hormone-positive cancers | Not effective for TNBC; causes menopausal symptoms |
| Targeted therapy | Effective in HER2-positive subtypes | Limited applicability, resistance may develop |
How Dendritic Cell Therapy Differs
- Immune-based and personalized: As a form of immune-based therapy, dendritic cell vaccination is designed for each patient using their own tumor antigens. This personalized cancer therapy instructs the immune system to recognize and attack only cancer cells, sparing healthy tissue.
- T-cell activation: Once administered, the vaccine triggers the activation and expansion of T cells. These T cells specifically target cancer cells expressing the presented antigens, leading to long-lasting cancer immunity.
- Low toxicity profile: Unlike chemotherapy, dendritic cell therapy does not cause systemic side effects like fatigue, hair loss, or gastrointestinal issues. Most patients report only mild local reactions such as redness or soreness at the injection site, resolving within 24-48 hours.
- Broad application: As an integrative treatment, dendritic cell therapy can be used alongside conventional therapies – after surgery to prevent recurrence, or during advanced stages where other treatments fail due to resistance.
Impact on survival and quality of life: In patients with early-stage breast cancer, dendritic cell vaccination has been shown to reduce recurrence rates by up to 80% when combined with surgery. For advanced cases, it improves progression-free survival and enhances overall well-being.
Step-by-Step Process of Dendritic Cell Vaccination in Germany
In leading cancer clinics in Germany, dendritic cell vaccines are produced using a highly controlled and scientifically validated process. This approach ensures that each patient receives a personalized, immunologically active therapy tailored to their cancer profile.
Below is a step-by-step explanation of how dendritic cell immunotherapy is performed in Germany.
Step 1: Initial assessment and screening
Before therapy can begin, the patient undergoes a comprehensive evaluation at an immunotherapy center. This includes:
- Clinical diagnosis and staging
- Blood tests and immune profiling
Patients with triple-negative breast cancer, metastatic disease, or those unresponsive to standard treatments are strong candidates.
Step 2: Blood collection
Approximately 200 ml of blood is collected under sterile conditions. The collected blood is immediately transported to a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-certified clean room for further processing.
Step 3: Cell isolation and culturing in the lab
In the lab:
- The blood is centrifuged to separate different cell layers. Red blood cells and granulocytes are discarded.
- The immune cell layer rich in monocytes and lymphocytes is retained.
- After purification, the monocyte-rich cells are transferred into a nutrient medium with growth factors such as GM-CSF and IL-4, initiating the transformation into dendritic cells.
To "train" the cells, autologous tumor antigens derived from the patient's tumor or plasma are added at the beginning of the incubation process. This step ensures the future vaccine stimulates targeted T-cell activation against that patient's unique cancer profile.
Step 4: Incubation and quality control
The cells are incubated for 7 days in a controlled environment. During this time, they mature into fully functional dendritic cells – recognizable by their fine, branch-like projections.
Before the cells are harvested:
- Flow cytometry is used to verify surface markers, cell viability, and count.
- Only high-quality, immunologically active dendritic cells are used to prepare the final cancer vaccines.
Step 5: Vaccine injection and immune system stimulation
The final dendritic cell vaccine is placed into sterile syringes and administered subcutaneously, typically in the groin region where lymph nodes are densely located. This allows optimal interaction between the vaccine and circulating T-cells.
This triggers a strong immune system function response, activating cytotoxic T-cells that seek and destroy cancer cells systemically.
Step 6: Post-vaccination monitoring and support
After immunization:
- Patients receive high-dose vitamin infusions to support immune recovery.
- No hospitalization is required – most patients return home the same day.
- Regular follow-up is arranged to assess response, using blood tests and imaging.
This method provides patients from around the world with access to one of the most advanced forms of cancer immunotherapy. It is especially valuable for those seeking treatment abroad when conventional therapies fail or carry high toxicity.
Professor Gansauge on the Power of Dendritic Cell Therapy
To gain a better understanding of dendritic cell therapy from one of the world's leading authorities, we conducted an interview with Professor Dr. Frank Gansauge, the founder of LDG Laboratories and a leader in dendritic cell immunotherapy in Germany.
With over 22 years of clinical experience, Prof. Dr. Gansauge shares firsthand how this personalized cancer therapy utilizes the immune system to recognize and destroy tumor cells. He explains why he calls dendritic cells the "officers" of the immune system – specialized cells trained to activate T-cells and organize a precise immune response against cancer cells.
Key highlights from the interview:
- Combination approach: According to Prof. Dr. Gansauge, dendritic cell therapy is most effective when used alongside surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation – offering an integrative treatment.
- Clinical outcomes: Prof. Dr. Gansauge discusses patients who remained recurrence-free for over five years after one injection, and the ability of fresh, non-frozen vaccines to achieve long-term cancer immunity.
- Beyond oncology: He also shares interesting observations on potential applications in anti-aging medicine, chronic infections, and triple-negative breast cancer.
- Patient-centered care: At LDG, each patient receives a fully personalized plan – there are no standard algorithms, only individually tailored therapies.
Watch the full interview with Prof. Dr. Gansauge to learn how dendritic cell therapy is transforming breast cancer treatment and why it is considered one of the most advanced innovations in cancer immunotherapy.
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Prof. Dr. Frank Gansauge on the Future of Dendritic Cell Therapy
Effectiveness and Real-World Outcomes
Clinical studies and real-world applications have shown that dendritic cell vaccines are highly effective in treating breast cancer, particularly when used as part of a comprehensive, personalized treatment strategy. By activating the body's own T-cells to recognize and destroy tumor cells, this form of immunotherapy has significantly improved outcomes for many breast cancer patients, including those with metastatic disease or those who have exhausted conventional terminal cancer options.
What the Data Shows
Survival and recurrence rates
In a phase II clinical trial published in Therapeutic Advances in Medical Oncology, HER2-negative breast cancer patients who received dendritic cell vaccines alongside neoadjuvant chemotherapy showed a threefold increase in pathologic complete response (tpCR) rates – 28.9% versus 9.1% in the control group. [5]
Immune memory and long-term monitoring
Clinical and preclinical studies show that DC vaccines can elicit strong antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses, which help recognize and destroy both primary and metastatic tumor cells. Evidence suggests that these T-cells may form long-term immune memory, offering the possibility of continued surveillance against recurrence even after a single vaccination cycle. [6, 7]
Effectiveness in metastatic disease
In metastatic breast cancer, dendritic cell-based agents, when combined with chemotherapy, have also shown great promise. A phase I/II study reported an objective response rate of 50%, compared to ~25% in patients receiving chemotherapy alone. [8]
Patient Story: Huda's Experience with Dendritic Cell Therapy
Huda, a patient from Saudi Arabia, was diagnosed with advanced breast cancer. Despite months of enduring aggressive chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple rounds of targeted therapy, her cancer progressed – eventually spreading to her lungs.
Huda and her family began searching internationally for innovative cancer treatment approaches and came across dendritic cell therapy at LDG Laboratories in Germany. Through Booking Health, her journey was arranged – from consultations with Prof. Dr. Frank Gansauge, to travel planning, document translation, and visa support. Everything was coordinated with care, allowing Huda to focus on her healing.
In December 2023, Huda arrived in Germany and underwent dendritic cell vaccination. Unlike the treatments she had previously endured, there were no harsh side effects, no hair loss, no nausea.
Within just a few months:
- Her tumor markers dropped.
- Imaging scans revealed that the lung metastases were shrinking.
- Her energy returned, and her appetite improved.
- And perhaps most importantly – her hope was restored.
Huda remains deeply grateful not only for the innovative therapy that helped halt her disease but also for the human kindness and professionalism shown by Prof. Dr. Gansauge's team and Booking Health's coordinators, who were by her side every step of the way. Today, Huda continues her recovery and is looking forward to the future.
Leading Clinics for Dendritic Cell Therapy in Germany
Germany is internationally recognized for its advanced dendritic cell therapy protocols and high standards in cancer care. Several immunotherapy centers across the country have achieved great results in treating breast cancer, particularly in patients with complex or advanced disease. These cancer clinics in Germany offer world-class infrastructure, experienced specialists, and personalized treatment options – making them top destinations for treatment abroad.
Below are three of the most trusted clinics offering dendritic cell immunotherapy for patients with breast cancer:
LDG Laboratories – Dr. Gansauge, Berg
Led by Professor Dr. Frank Gansauge, LDG is one of the most experienced and reputable centers specializing in dendritic cell therapy. The clinic has over 22 years of clinical expertise, with its own GMP-certified laboratory for vaccine preparation. Prof. Dr. Gansauge's personalized approach includes genetic tumor profiling, custom antigen loading, and strict quality controls to maximize immune response.
Why patients choose LDG Laboratories:
- Tailored therapy protocols for each patient;
- Innovative treatment for metastatic and hard-to-treat breast cancers;
- Extensive follow-up care and monitoring;
IOZK – Immuno-Oncological Center Cologne
IOZK is a famous immunotherapy center that combines dendritic cell immunotherapy with virotherapy and hyperthermia for a multi-pronged cancer attack. The center is particularly popular among international patients for its modern facilities and holistic care.
Main advantages include:
- Multi-modal immunotherapy programs;
- Experienced with a wide range of tumor types;
- Recognized for scientific research and innovation.
Praxisgemeinschaft für Zelltherapie, Duderstadt
This specialized practice offers cell-based therapies within a personalized outpatient setting. Known for its comfortable patient experience and integrative methods, the Duderstadt clinic is ideal for those seeking individualized attention in a peaceful environment.
Benefits:
- Personalized care in a low-stress setting;
- Proven success in chronic and advanced cancers;
- Trusted by cancer patients from around the world.
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Cost and Logistics of Treatment
When considering breast cancer treatment abroad, one of the most common questions patients have is about treatment pricing and how to manage the logistics of medical travel. Germany offers access to advanced dendritic cell immunotherapy at competitive prices compared to many Western countries, without compromising quality.
What Is the Cost of Dendritic Cell Therapy in Germany?
The cost in Germany for dendritic cell therapy typically ranges between €20,000 and €38,000, depending on the clinic, treatment scope, and any complementary services included (e.g., genetic testing, imaging, vitamin infusions). Prices may vary based on:
- Whether therapy is standalone or combined with surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy
- Use of additional treatments like hyperthermia or virotherapy (as seen at IOZK)
- Individual health status and treatment complexity
Compared to clinics in the U.S. or other high-cost regions, Germany's immunotherapy expenses can be up to 50% lower – especially when coordinated through specialized facilitators like Booking Health.
A Medical Journey: Every Step of the Way with Booking Health
Finding the right cancer treatment – especially when dealing with advanced stages like metastatic breast cancer – can be overwhelming. After multiple consultations, exhausting treatment cycles, and conflicting medical opinions, many cancer patients find themselves confused by the sheer volume of information and uncertain about their next steps.
Instead of settling for standard protocols with harsh side effects, you can explore innovative, low-toxicity options like dendritic cell therapy. To make a truly informed decision, consult the experts at Booking Health – a company that has been organizing treatment abroad and international treatment coordination for over 12 years.
We specialize in personalized medical travel solutions, helping patients from over 70 countries access innovative therapies – including breast cancer immunotherapy – in Germany's top hospitals. When you choose Booking Health, you receive more than just a treatment plan; you gain a trusted partner to guide you through every stage of your healing journey.
Our services include:
- In-depth analysis of your medical records;
- Creation of a personalized breast cancer treatment program;
- Selection of the most appropriate clinic and specialists;
- Translation and forwarding of all necessary medical documents;
- Direct booking with the clinic (no intermediaries);
- Pre-travel consultations and preparatory support;
- Visa assistance, accommodation, and travel planning;
- On-site medical interpreter and personal coordinator;
- 24/7 support during your entire stay;
- Post-treatment follow-up and coordination of care after you return home;
- Transparent treatment pricing with no hidden costs.
Your health is one of the most valuable aspects of your life. Entrust it only to professionals with proven success and global recognition. Booking Health is your reliable partner for accessing world-class care and improving your quality of life.
Contact our medical consultants today to explore advanced immunotherapy options for breast cancer in Germany.
Dendritic Cell Innovation: Cancer Treatment with Booking Health
FAQ About Dendritic Cell-Based Immunotherapy In Breast Cancer in Germany
Send request for treatmentDendritic cell therapy for breast cancer involves using the patient's dendritic cells to create a targeted immune response against cancer cells. These modified cells help the immune system recognize and attack breast cancer cells more effectively, potentially improving outcomes and reducing recurrence.
The benefits include personalized treatment, minimal side effects, and the potential for long-term remission. This therapy can be particularly effective for patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer, offering a new avenue of hope when traditional treatments have failed.
While generally safe, some risks include mild side effects like fever and fatigue. Rarely, patients may experience more severe immune reactions. It is crucial to have the therapy administered in specialized clinics under the supervision of experienced professionals.
Results can vary; some patients may see improvements within a few weeks, while others may take several months. Continuous monitoring and follow-up are essential to assess the effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
Dendritic cell therapy is a form of immunotherapy that uses a patient's own dendritic cells to train the immune system to recognize and destroy breast cancer cells. These cells are exposed to tumor antigens in a lab and reintroduced into the body to trigger an immune activation process, leading to a targeted immune response.
Yes. For triple-negative breast cancer, a particularly hard-to-treat cancer, dendritic cell immunotherapy offers encouraging results by enhancing the immune response and promoting T-cell activation against tumors that do not respond to hormone or HER2-targeted therapies.
While it may not replace chemotherapy entirely, dendritic cell therapy can serve as a chemotherapy alternative – especially for patients seeking low-toxicity cancer therapy or those who do not tolerate traditional treatments. It is an effective immune-based therapy and works well as part of an integrative treatment plan that includes conventional methods.
Ideal patient selection includes those with breast cancer who are either newly diagnosed, post-surgery, or in advanced stages. The patient's immune system function and tumor characteristics (like HLA status and antigen profile) help determine eligibility.
This therapy uses your own immune cells to fight cancer. Unlike chemo or radiation, dendritic cells target cancer without damaging healthy tissue, offering a personalized cancer therapy with fewer side effects and longer-lasting protection.
In top immunotherapy centers in Germany, the process involves blood collection, lab preparation of tumor antigens, and vaccine injection. Patients seeking treatment abroad benefit from advanced technologies and rigorous medical standards.
The cost in Germany typically ranges from €20,000 to €38,000. Treatment pricing depends on your individual protocol, combination therapies, and clinic choice. These immunotherapy expenses are often lower than in other Western countries.
Yes. In cases of stage 4 breast cancer or other terminal cancer options, this therapy can stimulate the immune system to control metastatic breast cancer, prolong survival, and improve quality of life – even when conventional therapies fail. It is often used as part of a combination immunotherapy strategy to enhance treatment effectiveness.
Several leading cancer clinics in Germany, such as LDG Laboratories and IOZK, offer this therapy. These certified immunotherapy centers are accessible through Booking Health support for international patients.
Choose treatment abroad and you will for sure get the best results!
Authors:
This article was edited by medical experts, board-certified doctors Dr. Nadezhda Ivanisova, and Dr. Bohdan Mykhalniuk. For the treatment of the conditions referred to in the article, you must consult a doctor; the information in the article is not intended for self-medication!
Our editorial policy, which details our commitment to accuracy and transparency, is available here. Click this link to review our policies.
Sources:
[1] World Health Organization. Breast Cancer. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/breast-cancer
[2] Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. Dendritic Cell Vaccines in Breast Cancer: Immune Modulation and Immunotherapy. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332223004730
[3] Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy. Dendritic Cell Vaccine for the Effective Immunotherapy of Breast Cancer. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0753332220302377
[4] Joanna Szpor, Joanna Streb, Anna Glajcar et al. Dendritic Cells Are Associated with Prognosis and Survival in Breast Cancer. Diagnostics (Basel). 2021 Apr 14;11(4):702. doi: 10.3390/diagnostics11040702. [DOI] [PMC free article]
[5] Marta Santisteban, Belén Pérez Solans, Laura Hato et al. Final results regarding the addition of dendritic cell vaccines to neoadjuvant chemotherapy in early HER2-negative breast cancer patients: clinical and translational analysis. Ther Adv Med Oncol. 2021 Dec 23;13:17588359211064653. doi: 10.1177/17588359211064653. [DOI] [PMC free article]
[6] Laura Hato, Angel Vizcay, Iñaki Eguren, José L Pérez-Gracia et al. Dendritic Cells in Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy. Cancers (Basel). 2024 Feb 28;16(5):981. doi: 10.3390/cancers16050981.[DOI] [PMC free article]
[7] Springer Nature. A pilot study incorporating HER2-directed dendritic cells into neoadjuvant therapy of early stage HER2+ER- breast cancer. https://www.nature.com/articles/s41523-025-00742-x
[8] Chrystelle Brignone, Maya Gutierrez, Fawzia Mefti et al. First-line chemoimmunotherapy in metastatic breast carcinoma. J Transl Med. 2010 Jul 23;8:71. doi: 10.1186/1479-5876-8-71. [DOI] [PMC free article]
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Dendritic cell therapy in cancer treatment in Germany - Vaccination against cancer
Article menu:
- What is Dendritic Cell Therapy and How It Works
- Indications for Dendritic Cell Vaccination in Breast Cancer
- Benefits of Dendritic Cell Therapy Over Conventional Treatments
- Step-by-Step Process of Dendritic Cell Vaccination in Germany
- Professor Gansauge on the Power of Dendritic Cell Therapy
- Patient Story: Huda's Experience with Dendritic Cell Therapy
- Leading Clinics for Dendritic Cell Therapy in Germany
- Cost and Logistics of Treatment
- A Medical Journey: Every Step of the Way with Booking Health
- FAQ About Dendritic Cell-Based Immunotherapy In Breast Cancer in Germany
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