The Journal. The Journal.

The Cancer Vaccine That Could Save Moderna

Aug 28, 2026 · 25m

Summary

Moderna’s stock has plummeted 90% as COVID vaccine sales waned, but recent promising Phase 3 results for its personalized melanoma vaccine have revived investor hope. The episode details Moderna’s risky pivot from infectious diseases to oncology, a journey fueled by early investor support and a partnership with Merck. Despite pandemic-era setbacks and financial struggles, this breakthrough positions Moderna as a potential leader in cancer treatment, marking a critical turning point for the biotech firm.

Topics discussed

Moderna's stock crash and surprising cancer vaccine news Show intro and sponsor advertisements Moderna's origins and early hesitation on cancer research Internal debate and investor funding for oncology program Partnership with Merck and Phase 2 study launch Pandemic pivot, financial boom, and post-COVID struggles Promising Phase 2 results and successful Phase 3 trial Company celebration and future FDA approval hopes New podcast series promo and episode credits
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