The 2024 NFCR Global Summit Highlights

Global leaders in the Fight Against Cancer came together in Washington, D.C., on October 18, 2024, for the NFCR Global Summit and Award Ceremonies focused on Cancer Research and Entrepreneurship.

The 2024 National Foundation for Cancer Research (NFCR) Global Summit and Award Ceremonies for Cancer Research and Entrepreneurship, co-hosted with the AIM-HI Accelerator Fund, brought together leading experts in cancer research, biotech entrepreneurship, pharmaceuticals, investment, and patient advocacy.

This esteemed event, held at the National Press Club, provided a unique platform for advancing innovative science, fostering collaborations, identifying urgent patient needs, and promoting breakthrough solutions.

It showcased advancements in cancer research, particularly in early detection and intervention, as well as the application of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance cancer diagnostics, drug development, and personalized treatment strategies—transforming the future of cancer care.

The NFCR Global Summit and Award Ceremonies for Cancer Research and Entrepreneurship is held annually to promote innovative collaborations within the cancer research community. Each year, this event unites researchers, clinicians, community physicians, biotech and biopharma entrepreneurs, investors, cancer survivors, and advocates to develop actionable strategies that directly influence cancer care.

Discussions initiated at this summit serve as a foundation for future advancements in research, drug diagnosis, and treatment—ensuring that the fight against cancer progresses with clear intent and a global movement encompassing all facets of the cancer ecosystem.

This gathering is vital for cancer research and collaboration. The partnerships formed here are propelling research forward and creating a future where curing cancer is achievable.

Leaders from around the world come together to exchange insights, forge partnerships, challenge existing barriers, and work collectively toward a shared goal: saving lives. The 2024 NFCR Global Summit showcased impactful exchanges of knowledge and visions that will generate positive effects in cancer research and patient care for years to come.

Keynotes on Cancer Breakthroughs

The event began with a keynote address from Drew Pardoll, M.D., Ph.D. (Johns Hopkins University Medical School), who discussed the transformative impact of checkpoint inhibitors on cancer immunotherapies. Dr. Pardoll addressed the urgent need for biomarkers to predict patient responses, improved clinical trials, and emphasized the need for better combination therapies to make immunotherapy more effective for a broader range of cancer patients.

Pulitzer Prize-winning author Siddhartha Mukherjee, M.D., delivered the evening keynote, fully engaging the audience with his fascinating stories about how cancer care has evolved over a long period. Weaving history and personal anecdotes, he captivated the audience and he shared his vision for the future of cancer treatment.

Focusing on the evolving landscape of gene editing, cellular engineering, and the pivotal role AI-powered immunotherapies will play in shaping the next decade of cancer care.

Dr. Mukherjee explained that, by leveraging AI and utilizing mature and low cost drug manufacturing capabilities in India, he expects to produce some treatments such as the CDK-4/6 inhibitor, palbociclib, at just 1/10th to 1/20th the cost of traditional drugs.

This forward-looking approach to cancer treatment production has the potential to profoundly impact countless lives and improve access equity for underserved populations in the U.S. and worldwide.

Cutting-Edge Discussions: Panel on New Approaches to Cancer Treatments

During this panel, innovative concepts and emerging trends in cancer treatment were explored, with a strong focus on the essential need for personalized approaches.

The session facilitated the creation of a clear action plan aimed at advancing research and developing new treatment strategies. Lisa Coussens, Ph.D. (Oregon Health and Science University), moderated the panel, which included:

• Aditya Bardia, M.D. (University of California, Los Angeles), who discussed Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) for HER2-positive breast cancer, highlighting a transformative approach that could significantly lessen chemotherapy toxicity.
• Jonathan Chernoff, M.D., Ph.D. (Fox Chase Cancer Center), who covered molecular glues and their potential in targeting previously “undruggable” proteins, particularly in RAS-driven cancers.
• Scott Lippman, M.D. (University of California, San Diego), who addressed cancer interception strategies, including the application of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) for early detection and prevention, now enhanced by machine learning algorithms to refine targeted precision medicine therapies.
• Paul Mischel, M.D. (Stanford University), who presented his pioneering research on extra-chromosomal DNA (ecDNA), a significant contributor to treatment resistance in glioblastoma and other aggressive cancers, and discussed how AI-driven data analysis is accelerating ecDNA research.

Shaping the Future of Cancer Care: Panel on Early Detection and Cancer Prevention

Carlos Doti, M.D. of AstraZeneca moderated a panel featuring key leaders to discuss current unmet needs, emerging technologies, clinical and policy challenges related to cancer screening, and potential strategies to significantly enhance patient outcomes:

• Ajay Goel, Ph.D. (City of Hope) presented the potential of liquid biopsies for detecting cancer at its earliest stages, enabling earlier interventions and improved patient outcomes. He noted that AI-powered analysis is enhancing the accuracy of liquid biopsy results.
• Samir Hanash, M.D., Ph.D. (MD Anderson Cancer Center) discussed multi-omic approaches for biomarker discovery, advocating for the integration of genomic, proteomic, and metabolomic data for earlier and more precise detection—made more feasible through AI-enhanced data mining techniques. Dr. Hanash confidently asserted, “I guarantee that by the end of the decade, there will be vaccines for breast cancer,” offering a visionary perspective that could transform the lives of many at risk.
• Steven Lipkin, M.D., Ph.D. (Weill Cornell Medicine) and Sapna Syngal, M.D., MPH (Dana-Farber Cancer Institute) provided insights into genetic predispositions to cancer and the advancement of molecular diagnostics, which are increasingly benefiting from AI-driven innovations aimed at preventing cancer in high-risk populations.

Sessions organized by the AIM-HI Accelerator Fund (AIM-HI) focused on supporting entrepreneurs and their biotech startups in developing promising pre-clinical therapies.

Moderated by Matt Tremblay, Ph.D. (Board Chair of AIM-HI and CEO of Blackbird Laboratories), this session highlighted two essential aspects in the fight against cancer.

The first panel showcased advancements from emerging early-stage oncology companies, while the second panel provided an investor perspective, offering vital insights into the investment needs and growth potential of innovative oncology startups.

By bringing together leading investors and emerging oncology entrepreneurs, AIM-HI fostered a collaborative environment aimed at propelling progress in cancer research.

Innovative Oncology Company Showcase

The Innovative Oncology Company Showcase highlighted the rising stars of biotech innovation, featuring updates from pioneering companies at the forefront of cancer research:

• Adventris Pharmaceuticals (CEO: Jenny Lesser Herbach, MBA; Co-Founder and CMO: Mark Yarchoan, M.D.) presented their work on small molecule therapies targeting cancer cell signaling in triple-negative breast cancer, aiming to bring their first drug candidate into clinical trials by 2025.
• Georgiamune (CEO: Samir Khleif, M.D.) showcased combination immunotherapies designed to enhance the body’s natural defenses against cancer.
• CLASP Therapeutics (CSO: Vipin Suri, Ph.D.) discussed precision medicines aimed at targeting p53 mutations in solid tumors, highlighting their upcoming IND submission for a new treatment focused on these mutations.
• Degron Therapeutics (CEO: Lily Zou, Ph.D.) showcased its protein degradation platform, which is intended to treat drug-resistant cancers.
• Biolojic Design (CMO: Ronald Herbst, Ph.D.) presented bispecific antibody therapies that aim to enhance the immune response against cancer.

Panel on Investor Perspectives on Innovative Oncology Companies

An engaging investor panel featured insights from leading biotech investors, including Dave Greenwald, Ph.D. (Deerfield), Beverly Lu, Ph.D. (Yosemite), Marie-Claire Peakman, Ph.D. (Pfizer Ventures), and Fei Shen, Ph.D. (BI Venture Fund).

They discussed the strategic significance of investing in high-risk, high-reward oncology startups. The panel emphasized that investors not only provide financial backing but also assist startups in navigating regulatory challenges, prioritizing resources, and connecting with broader networks.

Despite the inherent risks, the panel underscored that ongoing investment in oncology is crucial for developing groundbreaking therapies that can greatly enhance patient outcomes.

2024 AIM-HI Beacon Award for Women Leaders in Oncology

The 2024 AIM-HI Beacon Award was presented to Margaret Foti, Ph.D., M.D. (hc), CEO of the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR), in recognition of her exceptional leadership in cancer research and her commitment to advancing innovation. The Beacon Award honors outstanding women leaders across all sectors of the health and life sciences industry.

In her acceptance remarks, Dr. Foti emphasized the critical need to address disparities in cancer care and to expand access to cutting-edge therapies globally. She highlighted the importance of collaboration and innovation in the ongoing fight against cancer, reinforcing her dedication to improving patient outcomes through increased access to effective treatments.

Read the post about Margaret Foti on OncoDaily.

The 2024 Szent-Györgyi Prize for Progress in Cancer Research

The prestigious 2024 Szent-Györgyi Prize for Progress in Cancer Research was awarded to Dennis Slamon, M.D., Ph.D. (UCLA Health, Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center) for his groundbreaking work in defining HER2-positive breast cancer.

His research significantly contributed to the development of Trastuzumab (Herceptin) and the translational research efforts related to the CDK-4/6 inhibitor, palbociclib, both of which are now FDA-approved.

These advancements have dramatically improved the prognosis for high-risk breast cancer patients. Dr. Slamon’s contributions have transformed the lives of countless patients worldwide and established a new standard in precision oncology.

Read the post about Dennis Slamon on OncoDaily.

The Future of Cancer Research Panel

The evening concluded with a panel discussion emceed by award-winning journalist Kristen Berset-Harris from WUSA9 Great Day Washington. The panel featured prominent figures including Dennis Slamon, M.D., Ph.D., Margaret Foti, Ph.D., M.D. (hc), Siddhartha Mukherjee, M.D., Olufunmilayo Olopade, M.D., Mohit Manrao, MBA, and patient advocates Shereen and Isabella Pavlides, NFCR Ambassadors.

The discussion centered on each panelist’s perspectives regarding the future needs and trends in cancer research. Key topics included the increasing significance of early detection technologies, the challenges presented by drug resistance, and the necessity for enhanced collaboration between public and private sectors to expedite the development and delivery of innovative treatments.

Testimonials Following the Event

The 2024 NFCR Global Summit and Award Ceremonies for Cancer Research and Entrepreneurship left a lasting impression on attendees, underscoring the significance of collaboration and innovation in the battle against cancer. Participants were invigorated by the groundbreaking discussions, actionable insights, and the potential for new partnerships to accelerate advancements in cancer research and treatment.

Here are a few testimonials from key figures who shared their thoughts on the event’s impact and importance:

• Raju Kucherlapati, Ph.D., Paul C. Cabot Professor of Genetics, Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School

“I thought that the meeting was excellent. We had great people, it was informational, intimate and very enjoyable. I saw many friends and met many new people.

The meeting also reflected new trends in cancer research and care and provided new avenues for support from NFCR and investments by AIM-HI. Thank you for including me in these activities and festivities during the Global Summit.”

• Ling Huang, Ph.D., Henry Ford Health Pancreatic Cancer, Michigan State University School of Medicine

“It’s been a great experience and very inspiring event to learn more about cancer research and how different sectors in the healthcare industry can contribute to improving the lives of cancer patients.

What is unique about NFCR’s summit is that it gathers experts and leaders from research, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and investment together to discuss and think about what needs to be done to move cancer care forward and how different parties can contribute to the progress.

The focus on big-picture views and forward-thinking is really great! I will definitely join you again next year.”

• Mohit Manrao, MBA, SVP, Head of US Oncology | President, AstraZeneca Foundation

“I was really impressed with what you have built and how your organization is a force for driving innovation and research.”

• Ke Liu, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Development Officer, Marengo Therapeutics; Former Chief of Oncology, CBER, FDA

“The organization and delivery of the conference were just superb. I learned throughout the conference and enjoyed catching up with old friends and making new ones. Please let me know if I can be of any help to you and NFCR…”

Save the Date for 2025

The next NFCR Global Summit and Award Ceremonies for Cancer Research and Entrepreneurship is scheduled for October 24, 2025, at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. This event will once again bring together leading voices in cancer research, biotechnology, and patient advocacy to further the fight against cancer through collaboration.

For sponsorship information, please contact Brian Wachtel, NFCR Executive Director and CDO, at [email protected].

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