A groundbreaking cancer vaccine developed by Moderna and Merck has shown promising results in reducing the recurrence of melanoma tumors. The study, released Thursday, found that the vaccine, called intismeran, cut the risk of melanoma returning by 42% two years after surgery when combined with standard post-surgery treatment.
The vaccine is personalized for each patient, using mRNA technology similar to that used in COVID-19 vaccines. It targets unique gene mutations in a patient’s tumor, teaching the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. The study involved over 1,100 patients, with 82% of those receiving the vaccine remaining cancer-free two years later compared to 70% who received only the standard immunotherapy, Keytruda.
Experts in the field have hailed the results as a significant advancement. Dr. Hussein Tawbi of MD Anderson Cancer Center called it a major win, while Dr. Michael Atkins of Georgetown University’s Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center described it as a big step forward for oncology. The vaccine’s side effects were mild, similar to those of mRNA coronavirus vaccinations.
Moderna and Merck are now discussing regulatory approval for the vaccine. The manufacturing process, which includes analyzing tumor genetics and brewing the vaccine, takes about six weeks. While the cost of the vaccine has not been disclosed, customized medicines are generally expensive. Moderna shares dropped 18% after the full results were released but remain over 200% higher than before the initial trial success was announced in August.