Merck and Moderna said their experimental personalized mRNA vaccine, given with
Merck’s Keytruda, met the primary endpoint in a Phase III trial of more than
1,100 high-risk or advanced melanoma patients, significantly extending
recurrence‑free survival versus Keytruda alone and lowering risk of distant
metastasis. The result builds on positive Phase II data earlier this year; the
trial will continue to evaluate additional endpoints including overall survival.
The companies plan to present data at an upcoming international medical meeting;
no timing for a U.S. regulatory submission was disclosed. Merck shares were up
about 8% premarket and Moderna shares rose more than 60% premarket.
