Data from a key cancer conference has underlined the potential of a vaccine for melanoma that has now moved into late-stage clinical trials here in the UK.
Last month, we heard of the first dosing of Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:MRNA, ETR:0QF)'s potential breakthrough jab for a phase III study that could offer hope for sufferers of skin cancer when used in combination with Merck's Keytruda, a checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Phase II data were shared at the recent American Society of Clinical Oncology meeting.
In an evaluation involving 157 advanced skin cancer patients, Moderna and Merck's treatments delivered a 49% lower risk of cancer recurrence or death and a 62% lower risk of cancer spreading compared to those on Keytruda alone.
Additionally, 75% of the dual therapy patients survived with no recurrences at 2.5 years, versus 56% for the pembrolizumab-only group.
Dr Stephen Hoge, Moderna's president, highlighted the significant and durable responses, indicating a potential shift in cancer treatment strategies. The study continues to monitor patients and will expand to include more participants and other cancers.
In late April, Steve Young from Stevenage, in Hertfordshire, was one of the first patients to try the jab. It is designed to help his immune system recognise and wipe out any remaining cancerous cells with the aim of ensuring the cancer doesn't return.
Called mRNA-4157 (V940), the same technology as current Covid vaccines. The UK trial is taking place at University College London Hospitals.