gp100:280-288 (288V) peptide vaccine(University of Virginia)

This is a pilot phase 1, open-label, single center, multi-dose, dose-escalation study of BMS-936558 in combination with or without a peptide vaccine.
The purpose of this study is to test the side effects of an investigational vaccine with an immune booster. Investigators also wish to find out its effects on the patient's immune system and whether it will shrink their melanoma.

RATIONALE: Monoclonal antibodies, such as ipilimumab, can block tumor growth in different ways. Some block the ability of tumor cells to grow and spread. Others find tumor cells and help kill them or carry tumor-killing substances to them. Vaccines made from gp100 peptides may help the body build an effective immune response to kill tumor cells. Giving ipilimumab together with vaccine therapy may be an effective treatment for melanoma.
PURPOSE: This randomized phase II trial is studying ipilimumab and vaccine therapy to see how well they work compared to ipilimumab alone in treating patients with previously treated stage IV melanoma.