Cuba develops new cancer drug candidate 2C12

Cuban scientists at the Center for Molecular Immunology (CIM) have developed 2C12, a new cancer drug candidate designed to stimulate the immune system to fight tumor cells. The medication, which shares characteristics with the internationally used drug pembrolizumab, is set to begin clinical trials targeting patients with advanced melanoma.

Clinical studies will be conducted at several institutions, including the National Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology and the Hermanos Ameijeiras Clinical-Surgical Hospital in Havana, as well as the Celestino Hernández Oncology University Hospital in Villa Clara. The trials will focus on patients with advanced melanoma where tumors cannot be surgically removed or have spread to other parts of the body.

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Rodríguez stated that this development is a step toward medical sovereignty, occurring amidst significant challenges. He noted that US sanctions and the economic blockade have restricted access to essential medicines, medical supplies, and raw materials necessary for the country's biopharmaceutical industry, exacerbating an existing energy and economic crisis.