The Russian Ministry of Health has announced the development of a groundbreaking cancer vaccine, set to be distributed free of charge to patients starting in early 2025.
The vaccine, designed to treat existing cancers rather than prevent them, is reported to slow tumor progression and reduce tumor size by 75-80%. Andrey Kaprin, head of the Radiology Medical Research Center under the Ministry of Health, confirmed the timeline for its release, stating that the vaccine represents a significant step forward in cancer treatment.
Unlike traditional preventive vaccines, this therapeutic vaccine will be tailored to individual patients based on the specific characteristics of their cancer. Alexander Gintsburg, Director of the Gamaleya Research Centre, explained that the vaccine leverages genetic-level changes unique to each tumor to activate the immune system.
“This vaccine carries genetic markers characteristic of tumors, prompting cytotoxic lymphocytes—specialized immune cells—to identify and destroy malignant cells,” Gintsburg said. He emphasized that the treatment is personalized for each cancer type and patient, making it a targeted solution rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.
Currently, research is focused on developing vaccine prototypes for melanoma, one of the most aggressive forms of cancer. Tests on mouse models have shown promising 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 supported by patented technologies that enable the genetic delivery of treatment to human cells.
While the announcement has generated global interest, many details remain unclear. 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.
