Moderna, Merck Cancer Vaccine Shows Promise in Late-Stage Melanoma Trial
Moderna and Merck have reported encouraging late-stage results for their experimental personalized mRNA cancer vaccine, strengthening hopes for a new treatment option for high-risk melanoma patients.
The vaccine, known as intismeran autogene, was tested alongside Merck’s immunotherapy drug Keytruda in a Phase 3 study involving more than 1,100 patients whose melanoma had been surgically removed.
The combination significantly improved the length of time patients remained free from cancer recurrence compared with Keytruda alone. It also reduced the risk of the disease spreading to distant parts of the body. No new major safety concerns were identified in the initial results.
The treatment is designed individually for each patient by analysing mutations found in their tumour. The resulting mRNA therapy aims to train the immune system to recognise and attack cancer cells carrying those specific mutations.
The announcement triggered a sharp rally in both companies’ shares. Moderna stock more than doubled during Wednesday’s trading, while Merck shares gained around 12%, reflecting investor optimism over the potential of personalized cancer treatments.
Earlier Phase 2 data had already shown lasting benefits, including a 49% reduction in the risk of recurrence or death after five years compared with Keytruda alone.
Moderna and Merck are also studying the technology in other cancers, including lung, bladder and kidney cancer. The companies are expected to discuss the latest findings with regulators as development continues.
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