Russia’s Federal Medical and Biological Agency (FMBA) announced that its pioneering colorectal cancer vaccine has successfully completed preclinical trials, showing both high efficacy and safety.

The development was revealed by FMBA head Veronika Skvortsova at the 10th Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), held in Vladivostok from September 3–6 under the theme “The Far East: Cooperation for Peace and Prosperity.”

According to Skvortsova, the vaccine is now ready for official use pending regulatory approval. “The vaccine is now ready for use; we are awaiting official approval,” she said, as reported by Tass. Over several years of research, including three years of rigorous testing, the vaccine demonstrated the ability to shrink tumors and slow progression by 60–80%, depending on the disease’s characteristics. Repeated doses were also found to be safe, while survival rates in test subjects significantly increased.

The FMBA revealed progress on additional therapeutic vaccines targeting glioblastoma and certain forms of melanoma, including ocular melanoma. These projects are now in advanced development stages, marking a broader effort to establish Russia as a leader in innovative cancer treatments.

Unlike preventive vaccines for infectious diseases, cancer vaccines are designed to treat existing cancers by stimulating the immune system to recognize and destroy malignant cells. Russia’s vaccine falls into this therapeutic category, similar to existing vaccines developed for prostate and bladder cancers.

Russian health authorities confirmed that the vaccine is currently under review by regulators, with a potential approval expected by mid-2026. If cleared, the first human clinical trials could begin as early as Q3 2026, focusing on advanced-stage colorectal cancer patients.

Researchers are also studying the vaccine’s effectiveness in combination therapies, potentially pairing it with immunotherapy or chemotherapy for stronger outcomes. International collaborations are planned to ensure transparent testing and adherence to global scientific standards.

While global medical communities have expressed strong interest, experts emphasize that human trials remain critical to confirm safety and efficacy. “Preclinical results are promising, but clinical studies will determine real-world success,” noted health experts following the announcement.

This year’s EEF gathered more than 8,400 participants from 75 countries, featuring over 100 sessions on global cooperation and innovation. Russia’s cancer vaccine project drew significant attention, highlighting the country’s growing footprint in advanced medical research and healthcare innovation.

As the world awaits further updates, Russia’s vaccine breakthrough offers a hopeful milestone in the global fight against cancer, potentially opening a new chapter in colorectal cancer treatment and beyond. (ILKHA)