Pfizer Inc (NYSE:PFE) made a promise to outdo cancer, joining its Covid vaccine-peer, Moderna Inc (NASDAQ:MRNA) in turning to oncology for its next growth story. Both Moderna and Pfizer made history during the COVID-19 pandemic thanks to mRNA technology. Now, Moderna and Pfizer embarked on a journey to treat cancer with mRNA science. By using mRNA-based next-generation CRC screening tests, a much smaller and less known pharma player, Mainz Biomed N.V. (NASDAQ:MYNZ), is already redefining standards in early cancer detection with its flagship colorectal cancer test ColoAlert, while also tackling cancer prevention.

First, there is the collaboration with Merck &Co Inc (NYSE:MRK). The combination of immunotherapy blockbuster drug Keytruda from Merck and the experimental mRNA vaccine showed encouraging results in patients diagnosed with melanoma, a deadly form of skin cancer. During summer, Merck and Moderna released positive mid-stage results that showed improved survival rates and showed long-lasting efficacy. Along with targeting melanoma by joining forces with Merck, Moderna is also conducting clinical trials of a cancer treatment for adults diagnosed with solid tumor cancers, lymphoma and non-small lung cancer.  

Determined to lead the way in cancer diagnostics, Mainz Biomed opened the week by releasing a statement to shareholders that highlighted its strategic plans, clinical developments, and its upcoming FDA trial anticipated for 2025 which should pave the way for entry into the U.S. market. With its innovative diagnostic solution ColoAlert that is already marketed across Europe, Mainz Biomed has positioned itself for substantial growth in global markets next year. With its flagship non-invasive test that not only revolutionized early detection of colorectal cancer but also prevention by identifying precancerous lesions, particularly advanced adenomas, Mainz Biomed reported significant clinical success in both US and European trials. Identifying these lesions allows for timely intervention through colonoscopy and adenoma removal, thereby warding off cancer from developing in the first place.

Despite its efforts to translate scientific research into effective medicines for cancer patients, Pfizer is still not near a breakthrough in oncology. Undoubtably, Pfizer is betting big on oncology to turn its ship around, which it showed with the $43 billion acquisition of the cancer drugmaker Seagen. With the combined pipeline, Pfizer is hoping to produce at least eight blockbuster medicines by the end of the decade. But this is still only a promise while cancer remains one of the most complex diseases of the modern civilization and one of science’s biggest challenges. Only time will show if mRNA technology is the missing piece of the puzzle for science to finally win the cancer battle. While no one knows if the COVID-19 success of mRNA science can be replicated for cancer, it does seem it is a good enough of a tool to make some much needed breakthroughs.