Russia has developed its first mRNA cancer vaccine, set to be distributed free of charge to patients starting in 2025, according to Andrey Kaprin, General Director of the Radiology Medical Research Center. This groundbreaking initiative underscores Russia’s commitment to making advanced cancer treatment accessible to all, Russia’s News Agency TASS reported.
The vaccine, developed collaboratively by several research centers, has successfully completed preclinical trials. Early results indicate it can suppress cancerous tumor growth and prevent metastases, according to a statement from Alexander Gintsburg, Director of the Gamaleya National Research Center for Epidemiology and Microbiology to TASS.
Kaprin hailed the vaccine’s accessibility as a breakthrough. “Ensuring this vaccine is free of charge reflects our mission to guarantee that advanced cancer therapies are not a privilege but a right for all patients,” he stated.
This announcement builds on recent developments revealed in June when Gintsburg announced an innovative experimental cancer treatment functioning like a personalized vaccine. Using artificial intelligence (AI), the Gamaleya Center has established an integrated laboratory capable of analyzing tumors and tailoring vaccines for each patient.
“The AI-driven approach can determine the vaccine’s optimal composition based on tumor data in less than a week,” Gintsburg explained, adding that preclinical tests in mice with melanomas (tumor cells) showed promising results, reducing tumor growth within 15 days post-injection. Clinical trials for the vaccine are slated to begin in mid-2025.
Russia’s Health Minister, Mikhail Murashko, described the vaccine’s progress as a “milestone in the pursuit of effective tailored cancer therapy,” with preliminary results expected to be published by the end of this year.
A Global Context
Personalized cancer vaccines are gaining attention worldwide. In 2022, the UK partnered with BioNTech to conduct clinical trials on personalized cancer treatments, aiming to enroll 10,000 patients by 2030. Similarly, the World Health Organization (WHO) has approved several vaccines targeting HPV and HBV, which are known to cause specific cancers.
Russia’s latest announcement positions it as a major player in this medical revolution, leveraging the expertise gained during the development of the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine.
President Vladimir Putin said during Moscow’s “Future Technologies Forum” earlier this year, highlighted the strides Russian scientists are making in creating effective cancer vaccines, calling it a top national priority.
With the integration of advanced AI and promising early results, Russia’s free mRNA cancer vaccine could transform oncology by delivering affordable, personalized treatment options. As Kaprin noted, “This initiative not only advances cancer treatment in Russia but also sets an inspiring global precedent for equitable healthcare access.”