Merck and Moderna plan to seek approval for personalized mRNA melanoma vaccine after Phase 3 shows delayed recurrence

At the 2026 STAT Summit, Merck and Moderna outlined their partnership to combine Keytruda with a personalized mRNA cancer vaccine aimed at melanoma patients.

In a large Phase 3 trial, the vaccine significantly delayed cancer recurrence and the development of metastatic disease compared with standard care.

The companies said they will file the product for regulatory approval, while noting that additional studies are needed to explore its use in other tumor types.

The patient story of Gary Keblish, a teacher who received the vaccine after surgery and remains active, was highlighted as an example of the therapy's potential impact on high‑risk melanoma patients.