Melanoma vaccine trial results, malaria vaccine pricing and an inflammation pipeline acquisition.
Oncology research
Personalised cancer vaccine improves outcomes in Phase III melanoma trial
Merck and Moderna reported that intismeran autogene plus Keytruda reduced the relative risk of melanoma recurrence or death by 42% versus Keytruda alone after surgery. In the trial of more than 1,100 patients, two-year recurrence-free survival was 82.2% versus 70%; the companies are preparing a US approval application.
Why it matters: Provides important late-stage evidence for personalised cancer vaccines, with regulatory review still ahead.
UNICEF and Gavi secure approximately 40% malaria vaccine price reduction
UNICEF and Gavi announced an agreement to lower the RTS,S/AS01 malaria vaccine price to €5.50 per dose, potentially saving $50 million during 2027–2029. The lower price is expected from early 2027, subject to manufacturing and regulatory milestones, including WHO prequalification of a new facility.
Why it matters: Could help African immunisation programmes protect more children while easing procurement budgets and strengthening vaccine supply.
Gilead agrees $1.275 billion acquisition of oral inflammation programme
Gilead agreed to acquire PepStar’s oral IL-23 receptor inhibitor programme, including HCXT-2001, for $1.275 billion upfront. The lead candidate remains in Phase I testing, with safety and efficacy unestablished; the transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter, subject to customary conditions.
Why it matters: Highlights investment in oral therapies for inflammatory bowel disease and potential future treatment combinations.
Editorial summaries for general information only; not medical advice. Research findings and company announcements should be read in their original context.