A new personalized mRNA cancer vaccine has made substantial progress in the fight against melanoma.
In research that took place over a 5-year period, the vaccine (mRNA-4157 (V940)) showed a 49% reduction in the risk of recurrence or death for high-risk melanoma patients when combined with immunotherapy.
Andrew Pecora of Hackensack Meridian explained the progress of fighting against melanoma.
“Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, with a high rate of recurrence, particularly in advanced stages,” he said. “For years, the medical community has been seeking ways to improve upon success. This personalized vaccine represents a major step forward.”
The five-year results come from a phase 2b study that tested intismeran autogene in combination with Merck’s Keytruda in people with high-risk melanoma after complete resection. Compared to single-agent Keytruda, the combination cut the risk of recurrence or death by 44% after two years and by 49% after three years.
