Objective

The ability to identify key, targetable, molecular drivers of tumour survival and progression represents the biggest single challenge in oncology therapeutic research. This is partly attributable to the complexity of the malignant disease state which can involve a heterogeneous molecular pathology, the subversion of host biological mechanisms, and an inherent genomic plasticity that can promote adaptive responses to therapeutic intervention. Whilst many putative cancer targets are proposed on the basis of experimental work, it is widely appreciated that attempts to reproduce or extend the initial data will be met with a high failure rate. In addition, even when data can be reproduced, erroneous interpretation of its likely relevance to clinical treatment can mislead and consume significant resources. This talk will highlight a number of issues related to cancer target validation and the critique of preclinical data. Collectively, those working in therapeutic discovery should seek to establish a more effective dialogue with researchers who aim to translate their findings toward clinical application and delivery of patient benefit.