Key Trends in Oncology Clinical Trials: ARG Takeaways from ASCO
July 1, 2025The ARG team recently attended the annual ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) conference in Chicago, engaging with leading oncologists, translational researchers, and biopharmaceutical stakeholders from across the globe. This premier scientific meeting covered the spectrum from cutting-edge investigational modalities to paradigm-shifting innovations in clinical trial methodology. We returned from the conference equipped with incredible insights and a new outlook on the future of oncology trials.
AI Transformation in Oncology Clinical Trials
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML) methodologies are rapidly changing the landscape of oncology research. While applications of AI are debated across various sectors, the field of clinical medicine—particularly oncology—has seen exponential growth in leveraging AI for image-based diagnostics. At this conference, the ARG team learned about the growth of AI applications in areas ranging from diagnostics to data management and biostatistics. Sponsors are leveraging AI to accelerate timelines and enhance the accuracy of their trials.
Early CRO Involvement: A Game Changer for Protocol Design
Early engagement of Contract Research Organizations (CROs) during the protocol development stage is becoming a best practice among biotech and biopharma sponsors. More biotech sponsors are now seeking early CRO input to make the process more efficient, better understand the feasibility of the trial, and determine how to maintain regulatory compliance early on. As a CRO with deep therapeutic area expertise, ARG’s proactive involvement can ensure optimized protocol architecture, site-specific risk mitigation, and robust study execution.
Trends Toward Targeted Therapies and Reducing Risk
While conventional cytotoxic regimens remain the mainstay for many tumor types, the oncology pipeline is heavily enriched with precision therapies—including targeted kinase inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and next-generation small molecules. Alongside this trend, more studies on natural methods of reducing cancer chances are emerging. Focusing on personalized treatments and prevention measures provides a more strategic approach.
Focus on Harder-to-Treat Cancers
Among the ASCO oncology professionals, there’s a trend toward research for Central Nervous System (CNS) tumors, including glioblastoma. ARG has worked on many trials for these types of tumors, so the team was glad to see that more research is underway. Advances in cellular therapies, such as CAR-T and other adoptive immunotherapies, have shown promise. The expanded utilization of translational biomarkers and advanced molecular profiling in these populations is likely to usher in the next wave of targeted interventions. Breakthroughs are also being made in the area of advanced and extreme cases of breast cancer, such as triple negative, HER2+ and HER2-.
Enhancing the Patient-Centric Experience
Clinical trials can be stressful for patients, especially those who need them the most. Patient engagement, retention, and overall experience are key determinants of trial success. This conference showed a major focus on shifting toward designing trials with patient comfort and needs in mind. As a CRO, we understand the importance of the patient experience in creating better outcomes for clinical trials.
Ongoing Funding Challenges in Oncology Research
Funding continues to be a challenge for companies looking to advance innovative forms of treatment. CROs like ARG can help sponsors maximize value and efficiency, but even that requires the trial to move past the “idea” phase. CROs such as ARG are well-positioned to guide sponsors through cost-containment strategies and operational efficiencies, although the preclinical-to-clinical translational gap remains significant for many emerging companies.
Immunotherapy and ADCs at the Forefront
The demand for immuno-oncology trials continues to grow, with this conference focusing strongly on Antibody Drug Conjugates (ADCs) and their clinical potential. ARG is actively involved in multiple immuno-oncology studies and recognizes the transformative potential of these biological therapeutics for advanced and earlier-stage disease.
With over 200 distinct types of cancer in the world, the field of oncology clinical trials is vast and complex. At this conference, we learned about many ways the field is continuing to expand to lead to better outcomes for all cancer patients. We also walked away feeling more empowered as a CRO that specializes in oncology, neurology and immunology to make a difference in the lives of people living with a cancer diagnosis. We look forward to incorporating what we’ve learned into future trials.
