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Moderna and Merck Report Successful Phase 3 Trial for Personalized mRNA Cancer Vaccine
Moderna and Merck have reported a successful Phase 3 trial of their personalized mRNA cancer treatment, intismeran autogene, designed for melanoma patients. This trial, known as INTerpath-001, demonstrated significant improvements in recurrence-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival when combined with Merck's KEYTRUDA.
The trial involved 1,137 patients with completely removed stage IIB, IIC, III, or IV melanoma who had not previously received systemic therapy. The results were statistically significant, marking a major milestone as it is the first successful Phase 3 result for individualized neoantigen therapy and mRNA-based cancer treatment.
Moderna's stock price soared over 90% in premarket trading following the announcement, reflecting investor optimism about the potential of personalized cancer vaccines. Merck's stock also saw a rise of approximately 7% in premarket trading.
The companies plan to present full findings at an upcoming international medical meeting and will engage with regulators regarding potential submissions for the combination treatment. This breakthrough follows earlier positive Phase 2b findings that indicated the combination reduced the risk of cancer recurrence or death significantly.
Both companies are currently exploring the use of intismeran in nine additional Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials across various cancers, including lung, bladder, and kidney cancers.
FAQ
What is intismeran autogene?
Intismeran autogene is a personalized mRNA cancer treatment developed by Moderna and Merck, specifically designed for melanoma patients.
What were the key findings of the Phase 3 trial?
The Phase 3 trial demonstrated significant improvements in recurrence-free survival and distant metastasis-free survival when intismeran was combined with Merck's KEYTRUDA in melanoma patients.
How many patients were involved in the trial?
The trial involved 1,137 patients with completely removed stage IIB, IIC, III, or IV melanoma who had not previously received systemic therapy.
What impact did the trial results have on stock prices?
Following the announcement of the successful trial results, Moderna's stock price soared over 90% in premarket trading, while Merck's stock rose approximately 7%.
What are the future plans for intismeran?
Moderna and Merck plan to present full findings at an upcoming international medical meeting and are exploring the use of intismeran in nine additional Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials across various cancers, including lung, bladder, and kidney cancers.