# Experimental mRNA vaccine cuts melanoma return risk by 42%

> Moderna and Merck's custom mRNA vaccine reduces melanoma recurrence by 42% in patients.
- Title: Experimental mRNA vaccine cuts melanoma return risk by 42%
- Summary: Moderna and Merck's custom mRNA vaccine reduces melanoma recurrence by 42% in patients. Moderna and Merck's personalized mRNA vaccine lowers melanoma return…
- Keywords: intismeran, melanoma, moderna, merck, mrna, cancer vaccine, keytruda, neoantigens, news, local, Experimental, vaccine
- Source: NBC Bay Area — https://nbcbayarea.com/news/health/experimental-mrna-cancer-vaccine-cuts-risk-melanoma-returning/4163389
- Published: 2026-10-23T11:26:08+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: intismeran, melanoma, moderna, merck, mrna, cancer vaccine, keytruda, neoantigens, news, local
## New cancer vaccine reduces melanoma return risk
Moderna and Merck's experimental mRNA vaccine cuts melanoma recurrence risk by 42% after two years.

> The vaccine, called intismeran, was custom-brewed for each patient to match their tumor.
## Vaccine custom-brewed for each patient
The vaccine, called intismeran, is made with the same Nobel Prize-winning mRNA technology that was behind COVID-19 vaccines.
## Study results show 42% reduction
Two years later, 82% of the vaccine group remained cancer-free versus 70% in the standard treatment group.
## Personalized cancer vaccine approach
Scientists hunted gene mutations unique to each patient’s tumor to create proteins the immune system can target.
## Patient experience with vaccine
Tony Hout, 62, remains cancer-free after melanoma surgery and vaccine treatment.

> I want to make sure I’m doing everything I can to be here for my family.
## Vaccine side effects minimal
Side effects were mainly sore arm, fatigue, and typical mRNA vaccine reactions.
## Next steps for approval
Moderna and Merck are discussing regulatory approval for the vaccine after study results.
## Key takeaway

Moderna and Merck's personalized mRNA vaccine lowers melanoma return risk by 42% after two years.