Exploring Novel Opportunities for an Early-Stage Oncology Asset

A global medical affairs team with an immuno-oncology portfolio with 5 assets in phases 1 and 2 needed to prioritize areas of interest for medical signal seeking and collaborative studies in indications not included in the clinical development plan (CDP).

We developed a ranked list of potential tumors to explore and created opportunity assessments for high-priority tumors using a framework including biological rationale, clinical rationale, unmet need, patient segments and size, and competition. Via cross-functional workshops, we explored tumor-specific areas of interest and identified the top-priority tumor types. Next, we facilitated an opportunity “deep dive” workshop to define scientific questions and the best way to address them. This work enabled us to prioritize areas of interest. We then assigned ownership of priority opportunities (clinical / medical) and aligned on the path forward (signal seeking, IST, CDP).

The project helped identify 3 indications for an MA-sponsored signal seeking study, 3 indications with clear areas of interest for ISTs, and 1 indication for CDP. This guidance enabled functions to prioritize their research investments in critical areas.