In a significant medical breakthrough, Moderna and Merck have released data from their mid-stage trial, showing promising results in the fight against the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma. Their experimental cancer vaccine, used in conjunction with Merck’s Keytruda, has shown a remarkable 49% reduction in death or relapse risk for patients with advanced melanoma, compared to those treated with Keytruda alone. The combination also demonstrated a 62% decrease in the risk of cancer spreading.
Moderna’s CEO, Stephane Bancel, hinted at the possibility of regulatory approvals and a launch as early as 2025. This optimism is reflected in the market, with Moderna’s shares surging more than 10% following the announcement.
The vaccine utilizes the same mRNA technology as Moderna’s Covid vaccine, tailored to each patient’s tumor profile. Combined with Keytruda, an immunotherapy that disrupts cancer’s evasion tactics, the duo presents a formidable approach to treating melanoma.
These results are not just a win for Moderna and Merck but a beacon of hope for melanoma patients worldwide. With over 100,000 Americans diagnosed annually, and nearly 8,000 expected fatalities, this breakthrough could significantly alter the landscape of cancer treatment.
Sournce: https://www.cnbc.com/2023/12/14/moderna-merck-cancer-vaccine-reduces-risk-of-skin-cancer-return.html
