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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 19, 2026Miami-Dade

Moderna and Merck report positive initial results for experimental mRNA cancer vaccine

Moderna and Merck announced that their experimental mRNA-based cancer vaccine, intismeran, showed improved outcomes in melanoma patients when paired with the immunotherapy drug Keytruda compared to using Keytruda alone. The companies reported that patients receiving the combination treatment experienced a longer period without cancer recurrence or metastasis.

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Why It Matters

This development represents a potential new class of personalized cancer treatment that could change standard care protocols for melanoma patients if it receives future regulatory approval.

Key Facts

  • Moderna and Merck are developing an mRNA-based cancer vaccine called intismeran.
  • The vaccine is designed to be personalized based on unique tumor mutations in individual patients.
  • The study tested the combination of intismeran and Keytruda against Keytruda alone in melanoma patients.
  • Patients receiving the combination treatment showed longer periods without cancer returning or spreading.
  • The companies did not disclose specific data on overall survival rates or the exact duration of cancer-free periods.
  • Moderna shares increased by more than 120% to $140.12 per share following the announcement.
  • Merck shares increased by approximately 11%.
  • The companies plan to present full study results at an upcoming international medical meeting.

Who's Mentioned

organizationModerna“Biotechnology company developing the mRNA cancer vaccine.”otherintismeran“The experimental mRNA-based cancer vaccine.”otherKeytruda“An immunotherapy drug used in the study.”organizationMerck“Pharmaceutical company partnering on the treatment and manufacturer of Keytruda.”