Preclinical Trials of a Melanoma Vaccine Completed in Russia

Alexander Gintsburg, the scientific director of the N. F. Gamaleya Center, announced the completion of preclinical trials of an mRNA vaccine designed to treat melanoma. According to Gintsburg, the vaccine proved effective in animal tests. In an interview with RIA Novosti, he explained that the vaccine was approximately 100% effective against melanoma itself and about 90% effective against metastases. The vaccine has been named “Neooncovac.” It was developed by scientists from the Gamaleya Center and the Blokhin Oncology Center. The National Medical Research Center for Radiology produces the vaccine. The Ministry of Health has approved the vaccine for clinical use. Health Minister Mikhail Murashko noted that the vaccine will not yet be used widely, as researchers need to thoroughly assess its safety and effectiveness.