The Next Wave of Oncology Innovation

To wrap up our focus on Oncology innovation in ight of world cancer day earlier this week, we at Oyster Venture Partners wanted to share with you our thoughts about moving on further into 2025 and what that means for innovation in the space.

2024 will be remembered as the year that revolutionised oncology, especially with the breakthroughs in cancer vaccines, as highlighted by Cancer Research UK (CRUK) and visionary leaders like Kate Bingham. But this is just the beginning.

Key Trends to Watch in 2025:

Precision Medicine and AI-Driven Research

The American Association for Cancer Research predicts major progress in targeting hard-to-treat mutations like KRAS. AI technologies, such as single-cell sequencing and ctDNA blood tests, will enable clinicians to fine-tune therapies in real-time.

Immunotherapy Innovations

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) like AstraZeneca's Dato-DXd and Gilead Sciences's Trodelvy are set to redefine treatment options by enhancing immune system responses. Additionally, advancements in CAR T-cell and tumour-infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) therapies will broaden treatment access for more cancer types.

Individualised Cancer Vaccines: The Next Frontier

Morgan Stanley has identified mRNA-based personalised vaccines as one of the most promising developments for 2025:

Moderna & Merck Group’s mRNA-4157: A groundbreaking melanoma vaccine with anticipated Phase 2 results by late 2025.

BioNTech SE’s BNT122: A colorectal cancer vaccine trial that also holds promise for metastatic melanoma patients.

These innovations are poised to make bespoke cancer vaccines more accessible, providing patients with tailored treatments targeting their specific tumour markers.

Radiotherapy and New Drug Developments

SUPREMO Study Impact (Macmillan Cancer Support):

Findings from the SUPREMO study suggest that post-mastectomy radiotherapy may no longer be necessary for some breast cancer patients, potentially reducing treatment burdens.

New Therapeutics

Drugs like Elacestrant, targeting oestrogen-sensitive tumours with ESR-1 mutations, are expanding treatment options for breast cancer patients.

Preventive Cancer Care and Vaccines

Cancer Research UK (CRUK) has spotlighted the potential of preventive vaccines:

HPV Vaccine Success: Reduced cervical cancer cases by 90% among vaccinated women.

LungVax (University of Oxford): A promising vaccine in development aimed at high-risk populations for lung cancer prevention.

The Role of AI in Accelerating Discovery (Insights from Kate Bingham’s BBC Interview)

Dame Kate Bingham emphasised AI’s role in healthcare breakthroughs during her BBC Radio 4 interview:

AI's ability to analyse complex datasets is expediting the discovery of novel drug targets and revolutionising personalised medicine.

The UK’s strong infrastructure for clinical trials and streamlined regulatory systems position it as a global leader in oncology research.

Driving Innovation for a Healthier Future

As we move further into 2025, Oyster Venture Partners is committed to supporting cutting-edge innovations that will redefine cancer treatment and care. By partnering with visionary founders, we continue to fuel life-changing ideas that push the boundaries of what’s possible in oncology.

Let’s continue to champion innovation, collaboration, and hope - because the future of cancer care is being written today.

Thanks to:

American Association for Cancer Research – Andrew Matthius and Emma Quinn

OncoDaily – Morgan Stanley’s top oncology catalysts for 2025

Macmillan Cancer Support - Professor Richard Simcock

Cancer Research UK (CRUK) – Michelle Mitchell OBE

BBC Radio 4 interview on Boxing Day 2024, Dame Kate Bingham, Managing Partner at SV Health Investors