How spatial biology improves clinical trial success in oncology
In oncology, the drug development path is unique: Phase 0 and Phase I trials are typically conducted in patients rather than healthy volunteers, allowing for early assessment of efficacy and patient selection alongside safety. Yet, even with this early clinical insight, many cancer drugs show promise in the lab but fail to transition effectively into the clinic. This often happens because, while we verify that a drug’s target is present, we frequently overlook its context, specifically its location, the surrounding microenvironment, and its interaction with neighboring cells. By revisiting real-world examples of discontinued trials, this post explains why understanding the “where” is just as critical as the “what”, and how spatial biology is positioning itself as a valuable avenue for validating clinical potential.
