CubaPLUS Magazine

The Centre of Molecular Immunology (CMI) has been working to contribute to preserving human life for more than 25 years. CMI researches and produces new products for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and diseases related to the immune system using mammalian cell cultures in compliance with the quality medical system regulations of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). Located to the west of the Cuban capital, CMI is one of the most important scientific institutions in Cuba due to its research projects focused on using immunotherapy against cancer, one of the scourges of the world.

CMI Director Dr. Agustín Lage Dávila, President of the Cuba- Canada Interparliamentary Group, explains that the centre works particularly on development of molecular vaccines, antibody engineering, cellular engineering, bio-informatics and regulation of the immune response.

Clinical trials, in highly specialized hospitals, are basic to the work for treatment of cancer of different origins and immune system diseases. In addition, scientific bases have been created through the discovery of new action mechanisms and identification of new targets allowing the combined use of several products for prolonged immunotherapy treatments of malignant tumours.

Currently CMI produces medicine for treatment of more than 10 000 patients annually, but by the end of the present year the facility will finish an extension allowing a gradual increase in production to satisfy the needs of 50,000 patients yearly.

Among the medicine produced in the centre is the humanized monoclonal antibody anti EGFR indicated for the treatment of head and neck tumours. This medication is now in advanced studies and clinical trials in Canada. The CIM Avax-EGF is a therapeutic vaccine indicated for adult patients with advanced lung cancer without small cells, while the ior EPOCIM is indicated for the treatment of anaemia in patients with chronic renal failure, AIDS and cancer.

CIMAB S.A. is the exclusive representative of CMI, among other laboratories, for the export of new biological medication indicated for the treatment of cancer and other non-transmissible chronic diseases, once the corresponding marketing approval is obtained.

Since 1992 CIMAB S.A. has been devoted to the commercialization of biopharmaceutical products in the national and international market. Its good relations with clients and dedication to offering excellent and qualified service has served to obtain more than 60 marketing approvals and sales in more than 20 countries.

CIMYN BioSciences was the first joint venture between CIMAB S.A. and Canada's YM Bioscience Inc. identifying, developing and commercializing several products for different countries.