Scientists at Southampton University in southern England say they are preparing to test the world's first anti-cancer vaccine made from genetic material or DNA.

It is intended to combat lymphoma -- a cancer of the white blood cells, which are part of the body's immune system.

The vaccine is made of the DNA from the patient's own cancer cells and will be given to patients whose symptoms have disappeared after conventional treatment.

The aim is to stimulate the immune system to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.

The Southampton team, who hope to also use the technique to combat leukaemia and other cancers, say they'll begin their tests within the next six months.