IIID Member Achieves Breakthrough in Cancer Immunotherapy Innovation

On September 6, 2025, knowledge-based biotech company Tukagen, a member of the (IIID) Iran International Innovation District, announced the successful design and production of Iran’s first genetically engineered oncolytic virus targeting glioblastoma. This achievement marks a milestone in the country’s drive to indigenize immunotherapy and oncolytic virotherapy technologies.

Tukagen, a leading Iranian biotechnology firm specializing in vector and viral engineering, has leveraged advanced GLP and GMP infrastructure alongside a team of expert scientists to complete the full cycle of biologics and biotechnology production — from initial design to final product manufacturing — entirely within Iran.

One of the company’s flagship initiatives, the “Katek Project”, focuses on developing a precision-engineered oncolytic virus capable of targeting and destroying glioblastoma cancer cells. To date, three pilot production batches have been successfully completed, and the project has passed all pre-clinical stages. The scientific documentation is now being finalized in CTD format for submission to the Iranian Food and Drug Administration.

Masoumeh Alamdari, Tukagen’s Production Manager and research team member, highlighted that the company’s expertise in vector and virus engineering enables it to carry out the complete process of design, production, and evaluation of biologics and biotech products. She emphasized that the Pardis Technology Park (PTP) GLP and GMP certified facilities allow them to meet international production standards for products required by both academia and industry.

She noted that the Katek Project is fully developed technically and scientifically, and preparations are underway to secure regulatory approval to begin clinical trials for glioblastoma treatment.

According to Alamdari, Tukagen’s mission goes beyond producing a localized cancer therapy: the company is committed to advancing Iran’s immunotherapy and oncolytic virotherapy sectors — fields poised to revolutionize the treatment of hard-to-cure diseases.