The identification of tumor-associated antigens (TAA) recognized by T
lymphocytes makes the development of antigen-specific synthetic and re
combinant vaccines possible. The expression of TAA within a recombinan
t vector increases control over the Kinetics and quantity, the molecul
ar form, and the subcellular location of the immunogen delivered. The
next generation of antitumor vaccines employs cytokines and costimulat
ory molecules expressed in concert with TAA that are capable of augmen
ting the activation and proliferation of antitumor immune responses. T
he ultimate goal of these new strategies, the treatment of established
cancer, is now being realized in animal models.