Merck has expanded its research collaboration with Moderna Therapeutics and paid US$200 M upfront to license, develop and commercialise its messenger RNA (mRNA)-based novel technology. The two companies will work together to explore mRNA technology for the treatment of various cancer indications and could investigate the vaccines in combination with Merck’s anti–PD-1 immuno-oncology drug, Keytruda® (pembrolizumab).