Novel mRNA cancer vaccine helps reduce chances of melanoma patients' tumours returning

A groundbreaking mRNA cancer vaccine, called intismeran, has shown promising results in reducing the likelihood of melanoma tumors returning, according to a major study released by Moderna and Merck. Personalized to match each patient's unique tumor, the vaccine, when combined with standard post-surgery treatment, reduced the risk of melanoma recurrence by 42% two years after surgery.

The study, led by researchers from MD Anderson Cancer Center, included 1,137 patients with stage IIB–IV cutaneous melanoma. Intismeran, made with Nobel Prize-winning mRNA technology, teaches the immune system to recognize and attack neoantigens, proteins produced by cancer cells. While the vaccine's side effects were mainly soreness and fatigue, common with mRNA cancer vaccines, its cost remains undisclosed.

Moderna and Merck are discussing regulatory approval for the vaccine, which could revolutionize cancer treatment by applying to various types of cancer.