Russia to launch free cancer vaccine by 2025
The Russian Ministry of Health has announced the development of a groundbreaking cancer vaccine, which will be distributed free of charge to patients beginning in early 2025.The vaccine, which is intended to treat existing cancers rather than prevent them, is said to slow tumour progression and reduce tumour size by 75–80%. Andrey Kaprin, head of the Ministry of Health's Radiology Medical Research Centre, confirmed the vaccine's release date and stated that it represents a significant step forward in cancer treatment.
Unlike traditional preventive vaccines, this therapeutic vaccine will be customised for each patient based on the unique characteristics of their cancer. According to Alexander Gintsburg, Director of the Gamaleya Research Centre, the vaccine activates the immune system by leveraging genetic changes specific to each tumour.
"This vaccine carries genetic markers characteristic of tumours, prompting cytotoxic lymphocytes—specialized immune cells—to identify and destroy malignant cells," said Gintsburg. He emphasised that the treatment is tailored to each cancer type and patient, resulting in a targeted solution rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Currently, researchers are working on vaccine prototypes for melanoma, one of the most aggressive types of cancer. Tests on mouse models have yielded encouraging results, with three vaccine variants providing immediate protection against death in experimental trials.
The Gamaleya Institute is collaborating with leading cancer centers, including the Herzen Center and the Blokken Center, to advance the vaccine’s development. These efforts are aided by patented technologies that enable the genetic delivery of treatment to human cells.
While the announcement sparked global interest, many details remain unknown. The types of cancers the vaccine will target, its effectiveness in large-scale clinical trials, and the rollout plan for distribution have yet to be disclosed. Additionally, the vaccine’s official name has not been revealed.
Russia’s initiative comes amid growing global efforts to develop personalized cancer vaccines. Western nations are pursuing similar treatments, signaling a competitive push in the field of oncology.
If successful, Russia’s therapeutic cancer vaccine could mark a milestone in the fight against cancer, offering hope to millions of patients worldwide.
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