Key points
- Vaccine shows strong safety and efficacy
- Initial use planned for colorectal cancer
- Further vaccines for melanoma are in development
ISLAMABAD: Russia’s experimental cancer vaccine has completed preclinical trials, demonstrating both safety and significant effectiveness, according to the country’s state news agency TASS. The report cites Veronika Skvortsova, head of the Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA).
Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), Skvortsova said that research into the vaccine has been ongoing for several years, with the last three focused on mandatory preclinical testing.
“The vaccine is now ready for use; we are awaiting official approval,” she told the agency.
Vaccine readiness confirmed
Skvortsova emphasised that preclinical data confirmed the drug’s safety — even when administered repeatedly — and showed considerable efficacy. Between 60–80 per cent of cases, depending on the type of cancer, experienced tumour shrinkage and slower disease progression. Survival rates also improved.
The FMBA chief stated that the vaccine’s initial application will be for colorectal cancer. She added that development is also progressing on vaccines targeting glioblastoma and specific types of melanoma, such as ocular melanoma, which are now in the final stages of testing.
Skvortsova delivered her remarks during the 10th Eastern Economic Forum, held in Vladivostok from 3 to 6 September.
Broader applications ahead
The forum’s business programme included more than 100 thematic sessions, organised under seven main tracks. The event welcomed over 8,400 participants representing more than 75 countries and territories.
According to the American Cancer Society, cancer vaccines currently exist for certain types of prostate and bladder cancer, and further vaccine research is ongoing.
