Moderna and Merck reported results for an experimental mRNA melanoma vaccine
Moderna and Merck released Phase 3 results showing their personalized mRNA melanoma vaccine, given with Keytruda, reduced the relative risk of recurrence or death by 42% compared with Keytruda alone. The trial involved more than 1,100 patients; distant metastasis or death risk fell 38%. The companies released the data Thursday ahead of a Saturday presentation in Madrid.
More context
Intismeran, the personalized mRNA vaccine, is designed not to prevent infection but to target an individual patient’s tumor. Scientists analyze genetic mutations in the cancer and use them to create a vaccine intended to train the immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Keytruda, an immunotherapy drug, is given alongside it to strengthen that response.
Merck and Moderna announced positive trial findings in August but did not then release detailed data. Moderna shares had nearly quadrupled by Wednesday’s close since that announcement. The companies released the data Thursday, earlier than planned, after reports that it had appeared online and been taken down. They are scheduled to present the findings Saturday in Madrid at a European Society for Medical Oncology meeting. The treatment remains experimental and is not yet available for doctors to prescribe.
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Reporting
- news247.gr — Cancer: Experimental mRNA Vaccine Reduces Risk of Death or Melanoma Recurrence by 42%
- CNN — Experimental mRNA vaccine cuts risk melanoma returns by 42% | CNN
- wxow.com — Experimental mRNA vaccine cuts risk melanoma returns by 42% | Health | wxow.com
- CBC News — A novel mRNA cancer vaccine helps cut the chances of melanoma tumor recurrence in major study | CBC News
- indianexpress.com — Moderna, Merck’s experimental cancer vaccine cuts melanoma recurrence risk by 42%: Report
- com.cy — Moderna-Merck Cancer Vaccine Cuts Melanoma Recurrence Risk in Phase 3 Trial
Verifier’s note
The results report Moderna and Merck releasing late-stage trial results showing their experimental mRNA vaccine reduced melanoma recurrence or death risk. They describe the same development reported on October 22, 2026, with no contradiction to the central claim.