Australian-led mRNA cancer vaccine cuts melanoma death risk

Summarised from 2 outlets · 3 reports · Updated 23 Oct, 02:02 · Archive

An Australian-led trial found an mRNA cancer vaccine combined with immunotherapy reduced melanoma recurrence and death risk by 42 per cent.

An Australian-led Phase 3 trial of an mRNA cancer vaccine combined with immunotherapy has shown significant benefits for melanoma patients. The trial involved 1,137 high-risk melanoma patients. Two-thirds received the personalised mRNA vaccine intismeran autogene alongside Merck's immunotherapy drug Keytruda, whilst one-third received Keytruda with a placebo injection.

After two years, 82 per cent of those receiving both treatments were alive and cancer-free, compared with 70 per cent who received immunotherapy alone. The combination reduced the melanoma recurrence or death risk by 42 per cent and the risk of cancer spread by 38 to 40 per cent. Keytruda works by removing a natural brake cancer cells use to hide from the immune system, while the vaccine instructs cells to produce copies of mutations for the immune system to target.

Researchers described the finding as a landmark moment. Associate Professor Seth Cheetham, Director of the Australian mRNA Cancer Vaccine Hub, called it an 'incredible breakthrough', describing the personalised approach as pioneering a new kind of medicine compared to one-size-fits-all cancer care.

Moderna and Merck are preparing to file for US approval, with the companies expecting the vaccine to launch in 2027. The combination is already being tested in other cancers, including kidney, bladder and lung cancer. The trial results will be presented at the European Society of Medical Oncology.

How it is being reported

• Cancer vaccine cuts melanoma death risk by 42 per centMerck and Moderna have released results of a late-stage trial that showed an experimental mRNA vaccine slashed the risk that melanoma returns by 42 per cent.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 01:50
• Cancer vaccine cuts melanoma death risk by 42 per centMerck and Moderna have released results of a late-stage trial that showed an experimental mRNA vaccine slashed the risk that melanoma returns by 42 per cent.Perth Now · 23 Oct, 01:50
• Aussie-led trial of an mRNA cancer vaccine found to significantly reduce risk of recurring melanoma and deathAn Australian-led trial of an mRNA cancer vaccine has been found to significantly decrease the risk of recurring melanoma and skin cancer-related deaths.The West Australian · 23 Oct, 01:10

In this story: Moderna · Merck · Seth Cheetham · Georgina Long · Stephane Bancel · Australia · United States

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