Moderna and Merck's mRNA Cancer Vaccine Marks Major Breakthrough

Moderna and Merck's mRNA cancer vaccine has achieved breakthrough success in late-stage testing. The trial, which involved over 1,000 patients with localized melanoma, showed that the vaccine kept tumors from coming back or spreading.

The achievement marks a significant milestone for the companies after more than 100 years of failed attempts at creating an effective therapeutic cancer vaccine.

Moderna's CEO, Stephane Bancel, likened the news to the day in late 2020 when the company announced its COVID-19 vaccine trial results.

Bancel and Merck's president of research laboratories, Dean Li, were quick to acknowledge the significance of their achievement, but also emphasized the need for continued work.