Russia has developed a new cancer vaccine and plans to offer it free to patients starting early 2025. The vaccine, based on mRNA technology, is designed to treat cancer by slowing tumor growth and shrinking tumors by up to 75–80%, according to Russian health officials.
The vaccine was created through a joint effort by the Gamaleya National Research Center, the Hertsen Moscow Oncology Research Institute, and the Blokhin Cancer Research Center. Andrey Kaprin, head of Russia’s Radiology Medical Research Center, confirmed the news on state radio. He clarified that the vaccine is meant to treat existing cancers, not prevent them.
Alexander Gintsburg, Director of the Gamaleya Center, said pre-clinical trials on mice showed strong results. The vaccine slowed tumor growth and stopped cancer from spreading. It also uses artificial intelligence to tailor each dose to the patient, allowing faster production—sometimes in under an hour.
Human trials are expected to start by mid-2025, focusing first on patients with melanoma at the Hertsen and Blokhin centers. Although each dose may cost around 300,000 rubles ($2,869), the Russian government will cover all costs for patients.
President Vladimir Putin has praised the country’s cancer research in the past, calling this vaccine a possible breakthrough in treatment. However, scientists outside Russia are urging caution. Full clinical trial data has not been published yet, and experts say more research is needed before results can be confirmed.
