New advances in cancer immunotherapy
presented in world forum
Renowned experts from 15 countries, including Nobel
Prize winners for Physics, Biochemistry and
Mathematics, will present the latest advances in
cancer immunotherapy research, during an event which
will take place in the capital November 10-15.
Speaking exclusively to AIN, Sonia Ponce de
León, communication specialist at the Molecular
Immunology Center (CIM), an entity affiliated with
the BioCubaFarma group, stated that the institution
organizes the International Cancer Immunotherapy
Workshop every two years.
She reported that scientists from the CIM will
impart the latest advances in caner immunotherapy
therapy, which since 2012 has been the principle
cause of death in Cuba.
The institution develops therapeutic vaccines and
monoclonal antibodies
which are used to treat different areas and levels
of pain, with good results, according to Cuban and
foreign experts.
Dr. Yicel Saurez, CIM’s commercial medicine manager,
emphasized that during the event the most advanced
technology in the world will be presented, in
addition to research strategies.
She emphasized that the entire scientific community
and many clinical oncologists recognize the
contribution that Cuban science and medicines can
make to treatment of the illness.
This center has a portfolio of some 20 products,
including medicines which have been fully developed
and can be used by patients.
She stated that in regards to research, these
pharmaceuticals are grouped into three categories:
recombinant proteins,
monoclonal antibodies
and therapeutic vaccines to treat cancer or
autoimmune diseases.
Saurez highlighted CIM exports to more than 30
countries, and the more than 70 Cuban patents
registered.
On previous occasions, Dr. Agustín Lage Dávila,
director of the CIM, commented on changes in the
clinical cancer treatment paradigm, emphasizing the
need to consider advanced cancer as a chronic,
incurable but controllable illness.
He also stated that new therapies based on
biotechnological products - monoclonal
antibodies
and vaccines – are focused on combating specific
elements of the cancer, extended duration, reduced
toxicity, combined use, and the ability to be used
on elderly people.
Likewise, he emphasized that clinical trials must
consider rates of survival and quality of life, and
be directed toward primary health care.
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