Ukraine has signed a strategic agreement with the Pluri Israeli company, which will supply PLX-R18-innovative cellular therapy capable of treating the effects of severe irradiation. The Pluri partner in Ukraine will be Hemafund's biotechnology company, which specializes in the storage and transportation of umbilical cord blood and cells.
This was reported by The Times of Israel , noting that the volume of the transaction could exceed $ 100 million.
Pluri, based in Israeli Haifa, uses the advanced technology of 3D expansion of stem cells obtained from the placenta after caesarean section. Its PLX-R18 preparation is specifically designed for the treatment of acute hematopoietic radiation syndrome (H-ARS)-a dangerous condition in which radiation destroys the bone marrow and disrupts hematopoiesis.
Under the terms of the contract, a 12,000 dose will be made for treatment for about 6,000 people. Doses in Ukraine will be stored, which will allow to respond promptly in the event of a radiation emergency.
Pluri emphasizes that her therapy is unique - this is the only technology based on the use of placental cells for the treatment of radiation.
“Our cryosage and logistics network allow you to store and quickly implement PLX-R18 as a critical element of Ukraine's readiness for potential radiation disasters. We hope that this drug will remain a preventive tool, but we must be ready for any scenario, ”said Hemafund founder Yaroslav Isokov.
This agreement is not only medical but also strategic importance. Against the backdrop of a full-scale war with Russia, radiation safety again became a priority-especially after the case of February 14, when the Russian drone with a hatched combat unit hit the shelter over the destroyed 4th Chernobyl unit. The explosion damaged the outer layer of the shield, which caused anxiety due to possible corrosion and increased risks of radiation leakage.
Although officials emphasize that PLX-R18 supply is a measure of restraint, in the current environment, it looks as part of a new national security strategy. Ukraine becomes the first country in the world to not only officially prepare for a potential radiation disaster, but also concludes contracts for storage of therapy that can really save life in such conditions.
Given the geopolitical situation, this partnership can become a model for other countries that understand that in the world with nuclear threats you need to prepare not only diplomatically but also technologically.
