IOZK

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Cancer clinic

Europe, Germany

+49 (0)221 – 420 399 25 Reveal phone no.

 

IOZK: Cancer Immunotherapy in Germany

The Immuno-Oncology Center in Cologne (IOZK) in Germany is a world-renowned centre for advanced cancer immunotherapy, offering personalised treatment plans that combine cutting-edge immunological science with patient-specific care. With decades of expertise and Europe’s only licensed manufacturing facility for individualised IO-VAC® cancer vaccines, IOZK provides an innovative, side-effect-minimising immunotherapy that complements conventional cancer treatments.

About IOZK

Located in the heart of Cologne, the Immuno-Oncology Center Cologne (IOZK) has been a pioneer in cancer immunotherapy since 1985. Dedicated to the advancement of immune-based treatment strategies, IOZK offers customised therapeutic approaches aimed at activating the body’s own defence mechanisms against cancer. With over 60 staff and cutting-edge laboratories, IOZK treats hundreds of international patients each year seeking complementary approaches to conventional cancer therapy.

The innovative immunotherapy protocol of the IOZK clinic leverages extensive research in tumour immunology to deliver treatments that are both highly personalised and well-tolerated. Their goal is not just to fight cancer, but to maintain the patient’s quality of life and empower them to take an active role in their healing journey.

Team of Cancer Immunotherapy Experts

The interdisciplinary team at the IOZK consists of medical and scientific experts, laboratory specialists and qualified nursing staff. Dr. Wilfried Stücker, who, together with his team, developed the IOZK Immunotherapy, founded the IOZK.

The Medical Director of the IOZK Practice for Translational Oncology is Dr. Stefaan Van Gool, a specialist in pediatric hemato-oncology with a focus on brain tumors. He leads the medical team and oversees the planning and implementation of treatment protocols.

Professor Dr. Volker Schirrmacher, the Scientific Director of the IOZK research group, brings over 30 years of experience from the German Cancer Research Center in Heidelberg and is regarded worldwide as a pioneer in cancer immunotherapy, particularly in the use of oncolytic viruses. He plays an active role in integrating new scientific findings and advancing the development of the IOZK Immunotherapy.

Together the team work daily on the application and advancement of immunotherapy to provide a customised therapy that offers a gentle treatment aimed at prolonging and maintaining a good quality of life for cancer patients.

Treatment Offered

The IOZK offers a comprehensive range of cancer immunotherapies for solid malignant tumors, which are virtually free of side effects.

Key components of their individualised IOZK Immunotherapy include:

  • IO-VAC® Vaccine – Patient-specific vaccine developed in IOZK’s GMP-certified lab by combining an oncolytic virus and the patient’s own tumour antigens with the patient’s own dendritic cells.
  • Virotherapy – Use of oncolytic viruses such as the Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) to destroy tumour cells and trigger an immune response.
  • Hyperthermia – Use of targeted and whole body controlled overheating to stimulate and intensify an immune reaction.
  • Checkpoint Inhibitor Therapy – Checkpoint inhibitors work by helping the immune system to better find and attack cancer cells, wherever they are in the body.
  • Modulation of Tumor Microenvironment – Adjusts surrounding tissue conditions to support immunotherapy effectiveness.
  • Micronutrient and Vitamin Optimisation – Boosts immune function through personalised nutrient support.

Advanced Individualised Immunotherapy in Germany

In contrast to conventional oncological treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, the IOZK immunotherapy is a gentle adjunctive therapy, targeted and individually designed based on each patient’s unique tumour profile and immune function. The multidisciplinary approach allows integration with other medical treatments where necessary and adapts dynamically to changes in the patient’s condition or tumour characteristics.

The IOZK’s commitment to innovation is demonstrated in the development of combination therapies that preserve healthy tissue while specifically targeting cancer cells. These therapies are designed for long-term protection, aiming to reduce the risk of recurrence. This makes them especially appealing to patients interested in a natural and sustainably protective cancer treatment.p>

State-of-the-Art Facilities

The IOZK treatment center spans over 2,300 square meters and is equipped with modern laboratories, examination and treatment rooms, as well as state-of-the-art therapeutic devices. It is outfitted with four systems for modulated loco-regional hyperthermia and three whole-body hyperthermia devices.

The IOZK also has an immuno-oncological diagnostic laboratory led by Dr. rer. med. Bitar and a department for molecular genetic diagnostics under the leadership of Dr. rer. nat. Simon von Ameln, along with a production laboratory that operates according to strict GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) standards. It is the only laboratory in Europe with official approval to manufacture personalised cancer vaccines from dendritic cells using oncolytic viruses, specifically the Newcastle Disease Virus, and patient-specific tumor antigens.

This vaccine is used exclusively within the IOZK practice in accordance with the regulations of the Medicines Act for novel therapies.

Treatment Costs

Treatment costs at IOZK reflect the production and delivery of a cutting-edge personalised medication regime in strict compliance with the legal requirements of the German Medicines Act (AMG). As treatments are individualised, costs can vary considerably, but as a guide the cost of the first two cycles of therapy, including diagnostics, production of the IO-VAC vaccine and treatments is approximately €65,000.

International Patients

IOZK warmly welcomes international patients from across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas and the Middle East. Conveniently located in central Cologne, just a short walk from the city’s main train station and cathedral, IOZK is easily accessible and surrounded by a wide selection of accommodation, dining and sightseeing options.

Why Choose IOZK?

IOZK represents a paradigm shift in oncology care by offering individualised immunotherapy that is:

  • Personalised – Every treatment plan is tailored to the individual’s immune profile and tumour biology.
  • Innovative – Pioneers in combining dendritic cell vaccines with virotherapy and other novel therapies.
  • Well-tolerated – Designed to preserve quality of life with minimal side-effects.
  • Integrated – Can be coordinated with surgery, chemotherapy or radiation.
  • Scientifically grounded – Based on over 35 years of research and led by internationally acclaimed experts.

Enquire now

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Address:

IOZK
Hohenstaufenring 30-32
Cologne
50674
Germany

Website:

IOZK

Connect with us:

I’m forever grateful to the IOZK team for their support and treatment; I truly believe their work gave us more precious time together.

– JB, UK

We’ve been going to IOZK for my brain cancer treatment – it is a very special place. The brilliant Professor Van Gool leads his incredible team from the front; with care, unparalleled expertise and the greatest respect. IOZK is responsible for my MRI scans looking better all the time.

– RO, UK

We never once thought we could beat this disease, but we did give it a real fight and this was undoubtably down to the kindness and expert medical knowledge and care given to Laura by IOZK. Unfortunately, the cancer did win in the end as we knew it would, but Laura lived for nearly 5 years post diagnosis. I believe this was down to IOZK who are at least 5 years ahead of anything being done in the UK to treat Glioblastomas. 

– MN, UK

I was diagnosed with GBM brain cancer in Feb 2018. I travelled from Australia and started my treatment at IOZK later that year. I found all the staff at the clinic to be amazing! in particular Professor Van Gool who I can’t rave enough about. Of all the GBM patients I have since met/know of, the only other doing well is an IOZK patient I am still in contact with. We are both alive and well, I believe as result of the IOZK treatment.

– SB, Australia

It all started 20 years ago with a prostate punch biopsy PSA 6 and a Gleason 4+3=7 – at the same time I met Dr Stucker from IOZK and started immunotherapy. What was impressive was the range of applications that have continued to develop over the years – as well as the strategic planning and collaboration with university institutions on special therapeutic challenges. So I was spared the standard chemo, hormone blockade, surgery or radiation and was able to continue working successfully.

– HA, Germany

I have been receiving treatment at IOZK for quite some time and feel very well looked after in this practice.

– AR, Germany

A beneficial and really promising alternative for anyone who wants to boldly go their own way!

– AkM, Germany

 

This page was authored by Jacky Cann, an experienced healthcare writer. Last reviewed: 13 October 2025. Next site review due: 01 May 2026.