A new method for treating lung cancer, involving the combined use of two immunotherapeutic drugs—balstilimab and botensilimab—is set to be tested in Armenia. The research has already begun.

Samvel Bardakhchyan, scientific director of the Immuno-Oncology Research Institute and an oncologist-chemotherapist, noted that immunotherapy is still a developing field both globally and in Armenia, according to Armenpress.

"Traditionally, chemotherapy is used to treat tumors, directly targeting and destroying cancer cells. In contrast, immunotherapy does not act directly on the tumor cells but instead stimulates the immune system, helping the body recognize and fight the cancer on its own," Bardakhchyan explained.

According to him, immunotherapy has been in use worldwide since the 2010s, with ongoing research. These drugs have gained widespread application in treating other cancers, particularly colorectal cancer, where they have shown promising results. Based on their effectiveness, researchers have now decided to explore their potential for lung cancer treatment.

The study in Armenia began in June 2024 and involves 45 patients diagnosed with stage IV lung cancer who have not yet received treatment.

Bardakhchyan emphasized that the trials primarily focus on lung cancer, but future research may explore the method's application for other types of cancer, sometimes in combination with chemotherapy.

The study is conducted with the approval of Armenia’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Yolyan Hematology and Oncology Center and the Immuno-Oncology Research Institute.