The group that developed a Covid jab using messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has inked a US$250mln deal with to create a cancer vaccine with one of the world’s largest pharma companies.
Moderna Theraputics Inc is teaming up with Merck to develop and commercialise the personalised cancer drug mRNA-4157/V940, which is currently in phase II trials.
It will be developed to work in harness with Merck’s Keytruda, a blockbuster immuno-therapy.
The Moderna discovery helps individual patients to generate T-cells, part of the body's immune defence system, based on a specific tumour ‘fingerprint’.
"We have been collaborating with Merck & Co Inc (NYSE:MRK) on PCVs [personalised cancer vacines] since 2016, and together we have made significant progress in advancing mRNA-4157 as an investigational personalized cancer treatment used in combination with KEYTRUDA," said Stephen Hoge, Moderna’s president.
"With data expected this quarter on PCV, we continue to be excited about the future and the impact mRNA can have as a new treatment paradigm in the management of cancer.
“Continuing our strategic alliance with Merck is an important milestone as we continue to grow our mRNA platform with promising clinical programs in multiple therapeutic areas."