Aussie researchers hail their mRNA melanoma vaccine after study finds 42% reduction in recurrence or death
Personalised mRNA vaccine targets mutations unique to each patient’s tumour, with experts describing the results as a potential shift in cancer treatment.
A world-first Australian study has revealed the potential of personalised vaccines in the post-resection treatment of patients with melanoma, suggesting they can cut the risk of recurrence or death by 42%.
Led by Professor Georgina Long, the medical director of Melanoma Institute Australia, researchers administered an mRNA vaccine called intismeran along with pembrolizumab immunotherapy to 757 patients.
They then compared the outcomes to 380 patients who received placebo plus pembrolizumab.
In the randomised controlled trial, the risk of melanoma recurrence or death was 42% lower in those receiving intismeran plus pembrolizumab compared with pembrolizumab alone.
