STAT+: Moderna and Merck say mRNA cancer vaccine succeeded in late-stage melanoma trial

Moderna and Merck report that a personalized mRNA cancer vaccine, administered alongside their existing treatment, reduced the recurrence of melanoma and its metastasis in a late-stage clinical trial, according to a statement released on Wednesday. This breakthrough in oncology, potentially offering a more effective and prolonged treatment, marks the first randomized Phase 3 study to conclusively demonstrate the efficacy of "neoantigen" vaccines.

The trial utilized the personalized vaccine, intismeran, in conjunction with Merck's Keytruda, in adjuvant melanoma treatment, where the disease had already been surgically removed. Further data from the drugmakers was not immediately disclosed, but if validated, these findings could extend hope and longevity for melanoma patients, showcasing the potential of mRNA technology in both vaccine and therapeutic development.