In a small clinical trial, customized mRNA vaccines against high-risk skin cancers appeared to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and death by nearly 50 percent over five years when compared with standard treatment alone, according to Moderna and Merck, the two pharmaceutical companies collaborating on the experimental cancer vaccine, called intismeran autogene (mRNA-4157 or V940). The companies released the top-line results this week, noting that the findings align closely with previous analyses from the trial, which examined rates of recurrence and death at earlier time points, specifically at two years and three years after the treatment.

The ongoing Phase 2 trial included 157 patients diagnosed with stage 3 or stage 4 melanoma who were at high risk of recurrence after surgical removal. All patients received standard treatment.

More data from the Phase 2 trial will soon be presented at a medical conference, the companies said. A Phase 3 trial is also underway, with enrollment complete.

The development of mRNA cancer vaccines represents a significant advancement in personalized medicine, potentially revolutionizing how cancer is treated. The industry is watching closely, as success in this area could open doors to new therapies for various types of cancer. The cultural impact could be profound, offering hope for more effective and less toxic cancer treatments, and reducing the fear and uncertainty associated with the disease.