# Cuba begins clinical trials for cancer drug 2C12

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/cuba-development-of-2c12-cancer-drug-candidate
> Updated: 2026-09-09T13:30:37.000Z. Sources: 16. Developments: 4.

Scientists at Cuba’s Center for Molecular Immunology (CIM) have initiated a phase 1 clinical trial for the monoclonal antibody candidate Anti PDL 2C12. Designed to treat advanced melanoma, the drug functions by stimulating the immune response to attack cancer cells, sharing characteristics with the international immunotherapy pembrolizumab.

The clinical trial is being conducted at the Celestino Hernández Robau Oncology Hospital in Villa Clara, and has expanded its evaluation to include sites in Havana, specifically the National Institute of Oncology and Radiobiology and the Hermanos Ameijeiras Clinical-Surgical Hospital. The study targets patients with advanced metastatic melanoma that cannot be treated with surgery, patients with metastatic lung tumors receiving second-line treatment, and those with refractory Hodgkin lymphoma.

Early reports from the trial indicate favorable responses in imaging studies, as well as improved appetite and mood among patients, with minimal reported side effects. The development of 2C12 is part of a broader effort to achieve “medical sovereignty” and provide therapeutic options despite the high cost of international oncology drugs and the difficulties Cuba faces in acquiring medical supplies due to the economic and commercial blockade imposed by the United States.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-09: Cuba evaluates clinical trial for advanced melanoma treatment

Cuba's Center for Molecular Immunology is conducting clinical trials for the 2C12 molecule to treat advanced melanoma, metastatic lung tumors, and refractory Hodgkin lymphoma.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cuba-evaluates-clinical-trial-for-advanced-melanoma-treatment

### 2026-09-07: Cuba begins clinical trials for new cancer drug Anti PDL 2C12

Cuba has launched a phase 1 clinical trial for Anti PDL 2C12, a new monoclonal antibody for treating advanced melanoma, lung cancer, and Hodgkin lymphoma, with trials active in Villa Clara and Havana.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cuba-begins-clinical-trials-for-new-cancer-drug-anti-pdl-2c12

### 2026-08-27: Cuba develops new cancer drug candidate 2C12

Cuba has developed 2C12, a cancer drug candidate similar to pembrolizumab, and is launching clinical trials for advanced melanoma despite ongoing US sanctions and medical supply shortages.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cuba-develops-new-cancer-treatment-amid-us-medical-restrictions

### 2026-08-25: Cuba develops 2C12 cancer drug candidate for melanoma

Cuba’s Center for Molecular Immunology has developed 2C12, a cancer drug candidate similar to pembrolizumab, to treat advanced melanoma amid challenges from US economic sanctions and high drug costs.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cuba-develops-2c12-immunotherapy-candidate-for-advanced-melanoma

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Cite as: Cuba begins clinical trials for cancer drug 2C12. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/cuba-development-of-2c12-cancer-drug-candidate