Personalised mRNA melanoma vaccine cuts recurrence or death risk by 42%

A large clinical trial has found that a personalised mRNA vaccine, given with an established immunotherapy drug, cut the risk of melanoma returning or patients dying by 42% over two years. Researchers described the results as a significant milestone in the fight against cancer.

More than 1,100 patients with melanoma, an aggressive form of skin cancer, took part. All received an established immunotherapy drug. Those who also received the personalised vaccine saw the 42% reduction compared with existing treatments. The vaccine uses the same mRNA technology found in many Covid jabs. Scientists analyse a sample of a patient's tumour and identify genetic mutations unique to that cancer. The custom-made jab then trains the immune system to recognise the tumour's molecular fingerprint and hunt down remaining cancer cells throughout the body.

Scientists said the long-awaited results may herald a new era in cancer treatment. Dr Pippa Corrie, who led the Cambridge part of the trial, called the technology exciting and fabulous, but said the trial was a first proof of principle and that more work was needed to show how much it was worth. Researchers hope the approach could open the door to similar treatments for other types of cancer, and personalised vaccines are already being trialled in other cancers. Scientists described the results as impressive, compelling and truly remarkable.

Tony Chapman, a gardener from near Corby in the Midlands, is one participant. He first noticed a strange spot on his chest in 2019 and had surgery. The cancer returned three years ago, and he needed a second operation. He said he was shocked and very frightened. He was given the immunotherapy drug Keytruda and joined the trial. He does not know whether he received the vaccine or a placebo, but check-ups show he remains cancer-free. He said life is an experiment and taking part seemed a good way to move science forward while possibly getting some benefit himself.

The treatment could be licensed as soon as next year if the findings hold up to independent scrutiny. But there are big questions over cost. A personalised vaccine may sound futuristic, but providing it at scale could carry a significant price tag, and it is unclear whether the NHS will deem it affordable. It is also unclear how long the vaccine may extend survival.