Kazakh scientists test home-grown vaccine against wormwood allergy
Scientists of the Kazakh National Agrarian Research University began Phase II clinical trials of a homegrown drug designed for immunotherapy against wormwood pollen allergy, Qazinform News Agency reports.
Wormwood pollen is known as the main seasonal allergen in Kazakhstan and is detected in about 30% of pollen allergy cases.
The problem is most acute in Almaty, where wormwood blooms from July to November, causing widespread allergic rhinitis symptoms such as sneezing, nasal congestion, and watery eyes.
Existing treatments mainly provide temporary relief and do not address the root cause. Traditional allergen-specific immunotherapy requires years of repeated injections.
The new vaccine, PollenVax, has been developed under the Kazakh Healthcare Ministry’s scientific program.
It is produced by OtarBioPharm LLP in compliance with the GMP standards.
The vaccine is based on a recombinant wormwood pollen allergen protein and provides for a significantly reduced treatment course, only four subcutaneous injections at weekly intervals, the Kazakh Agriculture Ministry said in a statement.
Phase I was completed involving 30 volunteers, showing good safety, tolerance, and positive immunological results (blocking antibodies, reduced sensitivity in skin prick tests).
Phase II features a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 138 patients aged 18–65 with confirmed wormwood-induced allergic rhinitis. Trials will last up to 180 days.
The project marks an important step in the development of Kazakhstan’s biopharmaceutical industry, showcasing the potential of domestic science to create innovative treatments for pressing public health challenges.
Notably, Kazakhstan to register its first homegrown cancer drug by year-end.
