Sputnik V

Sputnik V is the world's first registered vaccine based on the well-studied human adenovirus vector platform.

The vaccine is named after the first Soviet space satellite.

The Sputnik V vaccine is based on a proven and well-studied platform of human adenoviral vectors that cause the common cold and that humanity has faced for millennia.

"Vectors" are carriers that can deliver genetic material from another virus into a cell. In this, the genetic material of the adenovirus that causes the infection is removed and material coded for a protein from another virus, in this case the coronavirus spike, is inserted. This new element is safe for the body, but it helps the immune system respond and produce antibodies that protect against infection.

The adenovirus-based vector technology platform simplifies and accelerates the development of new vaccines by modifying the original carrier vector with genetic material from newly emerging viruses, which allows for the production of new vaccines in a short time. Such vaccines elicit a strong response from the human immune system.

Human adenoviruses are considered among the easiest to modify, which is why they have become very popular as vectors.

Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials of the vaccine were completed on August 1, 2020. The results of the third phase of clinical trials in Russia were published in the Lancet on February 2, 2021. Clinical trials of the third phase of Sputnik V are also successfully taking place in the United Arab Emirates, India, Venezuela and Belarus.

The effectiveness of the vaccine is 97.6% based on the analysis of data on the incidence of coronavirus among Russians vaccinated with both components of the drug in the period from December 5, 2020 to March 31, 2021.