Moderna Melanoma Combo Cuts Spread Risk 59%, FDA Schedules June 18 Flu Panel
Moderna and Merck’s combination therapy cut melanoma spread risk by 59% at five-year follow-up in a mid-stage trial. FDA set a June 18 advisory panel to assess Moderna’s mRNA-1010 flu vaccine, driving shares down 2% on regulatory uncertainty.
1. Melanoma Combo Trial Achieves Long-Term Efficacy
In a mid-stage study, Moderna and Merck’s combination immunotherapy reduced the risk of melanoma metastasis by 59% over five years, signaling a potential commercial opportunity in the oncology market. The durable response underscores the strength of Moderna’s mRNA platform beyond infectious diseases.
2. FDA Sets Advisory Meeting for Flu Vaccine
Regulators scheduled the Vaccines and Related Biological Products Advisory Committee to review Moderna’s experimental mRNA-1010 seasonal influenza vaccine on June 18, just weeks before the August 5 decision deadline. The announcement prompted a 2% stock decline and highlights ongoing regulatory scrutiny ahead of the 2026-27 flu season for adults 50 and older.