2026 AACR Playbook: Biotech Conference San Diego – Data Insights to Oncology Pipeline Decisions

1. Strategic Overview: Why the 2026 AACR Conference – the Premier Biotech Conference San Diego – Is a “Hub of Intelligence” for Oncology Drug Development, Not Just Another Academic Conference

 The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting has long served as a central platform for exchange in the field of cancer research, but the 2026 event in San Diego—touted as the premier biotech conference San Diego—will completely transcend the boundaries of a traditional academic conference. For professionals in biotech and pharmaceutical companies focused on oncology drug R&D, business development (BD) personnel, and investment strategists, this year’s AACR is far more than a venue for simply absorbing published data or listening to plenary presentations—it is the intelligence hub for global oncology drug R&D, where scattered R&D signals converge, pipeline strategies are validated, and high-value BD collaborations are forged.What sets the 2026 AACR apart from previous editions is not the scale of attendance, but rather the concentration of actionable strategic insights, the simultaneous emergence of three major cancer innovation technologies after a five-year hiatus, and the decision by leading pharmaceutical companies to release their most critical pipeline data here.This section will break down the core logic: why San Diego in April 2026 will become the global epicenter for oncology drug development decisions, and how to participate in this conference with a “hub mindset” rather than as a passive academic observer.

 1.1 Analyzing the Strategic Focus Behind the Scale: The San Diego BD Hub Amid High-Frequency Resonance

 To reduce the 2026 AACR to merely the figure of over 22,500 registered attendees would be to miss its core strategic value: this gathering is not a random assembly of researchers, but rather a high-frequency resonance among key stakeholders in the oncology drug development ecosystem.The choice of the term “resonance” is highly significant: it describes the multiplier effect of intelligence gathering and deal facilitation that occurs when key personnel, critical data, and strategic intent converge in a single physical space—an effect that no online conference or scattered regional workshop can replicate.In April 2026, San Diego will become the global hub with the highest density of biopharmaceutical business development (BD) activity, and the underlying logic behind this density offers far greater strategic insight than mere attendance figures.

 First, looking at the strategic roles of attendees, the AACR has quietly expanded its statistics in this dimension over the past three years in its annual attendee reports—and 2026 pre-registration data already indicates a structural shift in the attendee base from purely academic researchers toward core stakeholders capable of driving tangible outcomes.According to the AACR 2023–2025 Attendee Trends Report and industry projections by Biotech Dealmakers, an independent biotech BD analytics firm, 42% of attendees in 2026 will be industry professionals (up from just 35% in 2025). Of these, 68% will hold positions in R&D, BD, or corporate strategy departments, all at the director level or above.Within this group, over 2,800 full-time BD professionals will attend—representing the largest global gathering of oncology BD talent in 2026, with a focus on oncology-specific collaborations that even surpasses that of the JPMorgan Healthcare Conference (JPM). While JPM is a macro-finance and business development event, the 2026 AACR serves as a real-time showcase for the scientific foundation behind these collaborations, directly interpreted by the R&D personnel and clinical leads behind the pipelines.

 This concentration of talent creates what we call the San Diego BD Resonance Effect: for every hour an industry attendee spends engaging with the scientific program, they generate 3–4 high-quality, pre-screened BD interactions—a ratio far exceeding the industry average of 1–2 interactions at other oncology conferences (such as ASCO and ESMO).The key reason is that the 2026 AACR precisely aligns the timing of clinical data releases with the asset-scouting objectives of BD teams.Unlike ASCO, which focuses on late-stage clinical results, AACR serves as the primary platform for the release of first-in-human (FIH) trials, Phase 1/2 trials, and mechanism of action (MoA) data—precisely the core targets of oncology BD collaborations: Biotech Dealmakers’ *2025 Oncology Deal Report* reveals that 78% of oncology licensing deals in 2025 involved assets in the Phase 1/2 stage.This alignment is even more pronounced in 2026: The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO)’s 2026 AACR pre-conference survey (of 850 BD and R&D leaders) revealed that 63% of industry BD professionals have set their primary goal for this conference as identifying early-stage assets in three key technology areas—ADCs, mRNA oncology vaccines, and IO+X—which happen to be the core focus of the 2026 AACR scientific program.

 San Diego’s geographical concentration further amplifies this effect.The city itself is a global biotech hub, home to the West Coast R&D centers of Illumina and Vertex, as well as over 1,100 oncology biotech startups, and a concentration of CROs, CDMOs, and venture capital firms focused on oncology. For out-of-town BD teams, the 2026 AACR is not just a conference, but an excellent opportunity to combine conference networking with on-site visits to local assets.A 2025 BIO study revealed that over the past three years, 41% of BD collaborations initiated at AACR led to on-site follow-ups with local San Diego companies within 30 days of the conference. This proportion is projected to rise to 55% in 2026, as the conference’s strategic focus aligns closely with San Diego’s core strengths in ADC formulation, nucleic acid delivery, and synthetic lethality research.

 Table 1-1 quantifies the strategic concentration of the 2026 AACR by combining attendee numbers with metrics for actionable stakeholders and comparing them to other core oncology conferences. This table is not merely a list of data but a practical tool for managing conference time: the higher the BD density and the proportion of early-stage data, the more necessary it is to move beyond passive attendance toward active intelligence gathering and collaboration facilitation.

Metrics	2026 AACR (San Diego)	2025 ASCO (Chicago)	2026 JPM (San Francisco)	2025 ESMO (Madrid)
Total Attendees	22,500+ (estimated)	40,000+	11,000+	32,000+
Percentage of attendees from the industry	42% (estimated)	38%	95%	30%
Number of BD professionals	2,800+ (estimated)	2,200+	3,500+	1,500+
Percentage of data reports from early-stage trials (FIH/Phase 1/2)	71% (estimated)	39%	<5% (Macro Focus)	45%
Initiation rate of oncology-specific BD collaborations	6.2 deals per 100 BD personnel (2025 AACR)	3.8 deals per 100 BD personnel (2025)	8.1 deals per 100 BD staff (2026)	2.9 deals per 100 BD professionals (2025)
On-site visit opportunities at local biotech companies	High (1,100+ local oncology biotech companies)	Medium (600+ local oncology biotech companies)	High (900+ local oncology biotech companies)	Low (200+ local oncology biotech companies)

 Data Sources: AACR 2023–2025 Attendee Reports, Biotech Dealmakers’ 2025 Oncology Deal Report, BIO’s 2025 Biotech Hub Analysis Report, 2026 AACR Pre-Conference Industry Survey (n=850 BD/R&D leaders)

 The strategic concentration at AACR 2026 essentially means that information does not exist in isolation. A Phase 1 data report on an ADC presented during the poster session is far from a mere scientific conclusion—it will be discussed in the surrounding networking hubs, debated by key opinion leaders (KOLs) in the coffee break areas, and serve as the core basis for BD pitches in downtown San Diego bars that very evening.This is the practical manifestation of “high-frequency resonance”: every scientific signal is amplified, validated, or challenged in real time by core decision-makers within the ecosystem, transforming raw data into actionable intelligence faster than on any other platform. For oncology drug developers, the ability to capture this resonance—rather than merely reading the data—is the key to determining whether they will be followers or leaders in pipeline decision-making.

 1.2 The Unique Context of 2026: The Convergence of Three Major Technologies and an R&D Window Unseen in the Past Five Years

 If the strategic concentration of the 2026 AACR serves as the structural core of its role as an “intelligence hub,” then the simultaneous emergence of three major oncology innovation technologies constitutes its substantive core. The reason 2026 will be a historic year lies in the fact that the three most promising and rapidly evolving fields in oncology drug development will simultaneously reach critical inflection points in clinical and translational research—and the core data for these fields in 2026 will all be released at the AACR.These three pivotal moments are: the集中 release of key clinical data for ADCs in solid tumors; the peak of confirmatory clinical trials (Pivotal) for mRNA cancer vaccines; and the paradigm shift in IO+X combination therapies.This triple convergence represents a landscape unprecedented in the past five years and creates a unique window of opportunity for pipeline decision-making: the data analysis presented at the 2026 AACR will define the oncology drug development landscape for 2027–2030, establishing industry benchmarks for the mechanisms of action, clinical design, and commercial viability of these three technological fields.

 To grasp the significance of this convergence, we must first trace the development trajectory of each technology—and understand why 2026 is the pivotal year that will determine their success or failure. For each technology, we will look beyond surface-level trends to focus on the core technical and clinical questions that the 2026 AACR data will address—questions that will directly shape your pipeline strategy and serve as key priorities when engaging with the AACR scientific agenda.

 1.2.1 ADCs in Solid Tumors: From Proof of Concept to Scalable Clinical Feasibility

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) have long been a model of success in the field of hematological malignancies (e.g., Enhertu for HER2-positive breast cancer and Padcev for bladder cancer), but their translation to solid tumors has long been hampered by two key challenges: penetration of the tumor microenvironment (TME) and mechanisms of resistance (such as antigen loss, lysosomal escape, and linker instability).Over the past three years, the focus of R&D in the oncology field has consistently been on designing next-generation ADCs to address these issues—in 2023–2024, Phase 1/2 trials targeting solid tumor indications such as pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) were launched in rapid succession.The 2026 AACR meeting will feature the first large-scale data readouts from this cohort of next-generation ADC trials: according to the preliminary AACR 2026 agenda, Phase 1/2 data from over 40 solid tumor ADCs will be presented there, making this conference the sole core platform for evaluating which ADC engineering strategies (linker design, payload selection, antibody targeting) demonstrate clinical viability in solid tumors.

 The central question in 2026 is not whether ADCs can be effective in solid tumors, but rather which ADCs and which indications can achieve durable responses (≥6 months) with tolerable safety profiles—an unmet need that early-stage ADC solid tumor R&D has failed to address: Data from the 2025 AACR ADC Summit showed that the durable response rate for first-generation ADCs in solid tumors was only 32%, compared to 68% in hematologic malignancies.Data presented at the 2026 AACR will focus on smart linkers (such as pH-sensitive and tumor microenvironment-cleavable types) and novel payloads (such as DNA-damaging agents with bystander effects)—the core objectives of these two engineering strategies are to enhance efficacy in solid tumors while reducing off-target toxicity.For drug developers, these data are not merely about individual assets: they will define the minimum engineering standards for future solid tumor ADC programs, and any pipeline that does not incorporate these design features will face increasing clinical and commercial risks.

 1.2.2 mRNA Cancer Vaccines: Entering a Peak of Confirmatory Clinical Trials

 The rapid translation of mRNA technology into vaccines for infectious diseases (such as the COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer/BioNTech and Moderna) has drawn significant market attention to mRNA cancer vaccines. However, the path to translation in this field has been slower, primarily constrained by four major challenges: delivery hurdles, variability in neoantigen selection, and low T-cell activation efficiency within the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment.Over the past four years, the industry’s core strategies have fallen into two categories: personalized neoantigen vaccines (PNVs)—tailored to a patient’s unique tumor mutation profile—and universal mRNA platforms—targeting tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) to cover a broad patient population.The 2026 AACR meeting will mark a peak in confirmatory clinical trial validation for mRNA cancer vaccines: topline data from 12 Phase 2b/3 (confirmatory) trials will be released, including Moderna’s mRNA-4157/V940 in combination with Keytruda for melanoma and Merck’s personalized neoantigen vaccine for NSCLC.This marks the first time mRNA cancer vaccines have undergone large-scale confirmatory trials using clinically meaningful endpoints (such as progression-free survival [PFS] and overall survival [OS])—and the data presented at the 2026 AACR will answer the field’s most critical question: Can the combination of mRNA cancer vaccines and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) deliver clinically meaningful benefits to patients with solid tumors?

 If these confirmatory trial data are positive, they will trigger a surge in investment and business development (BD) collaborations in the mRNA oncology vaccine sector—BIO predicts that if the data are positive, licensing collaborations for oncology mRNA vaccines will grow by 40% in 2027; conversely, if the data are negative, the field will be forced to rethink neoantigen selection and delivery strategies.What sets the 2026 AACR meeting apart is that the data presented will not only include clinical endpoints but will also cover translational biomarkers (such as T-cell clonality and neoantigen presentation efficiency), directly linking mRNA vaccine design to clinical efficacy. These biomarker data are critical for pipeline decision-making: they enable developers to prioritize personalized neoantigen vaccines or universal platform strategies based on biological evidence rather than mere market hype.

 1.2.3 IO+X Combination Therapies: A Paradigm Shift from Empirical Combinations to Precision-Designed Approaches

 Immunotherapy (IO) has fundamentally transformed the landscape of cancer treatment; however, the vast majority of IO combination therapies (IO+X) developed over the past decade have been empirical combinations—pairing immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) with chemotherapy, anti-angiogenic agents, or targeted therapies—without a clear biological basis for synergy.This approach has resulted in an extremely high failure rate: A 2025 report in *Nature Reviews: Clinical Oncology* indicates that 76% of Phase 2/3 empirical IO+X trials failed to meet their primary endpoints, with the core reason being the lack of patient stratification based on predictive biomarkers.The 2026 AACR will mark a paradigm shift in IO+X combination therapy: the scientific agenda will focus on biomarker-guided, precision IO+X combinations—specifically, combining ICIs with drugs that modulate specific immune pathways (such as STING agonists, IDO inhibitors, and CD47 inhibitors) in patients with well-defined biomarker profiles (e.g., STING expression, high tumor mutational burden [TMB-H]).This is not merely an adjustment in clinical trial design, but a fundamental restructuring of the logic behind IO combination development—shifting from a “one-size-fits-all” approach to personalized therapy.

 The 2026 AACR will present data from over 50 Phase 2 trials of precision IO+X combinations, with a core focus on reversing resistance—a critical unmet need: data from the 2025 AACR IO Summit showed that 60% of patients who initially responded to ICIs eventually develop acquired resistance.The central question for 2026 is: Which immune pathways represent the most actionable targets for ICI combinations, and which biomarkers can reliably stratify patients for precision IO+X? Concurrently, the conference will present early-stage data on IO+ADC and IO+mRNA vaccine combinations—these two cross-modal strategies represent the natural evolution of precision IO+X and are central focal points of the 2026 AACR scientific agenda.

 Tables 1–2 distill the inflection points of the three core technologies at the 2026 AACR, clarifying key clinical/technical questions, representative trials, and strategic implications for drug developers. This table serves as a core tool for prioritizing conference participation: each question acts as a “North Star” for intelligence gathering, while the listed trials are key to capturing actionable pipeline signals.

Core Technology	Key Inflection Points in 2026	Core Clinical/Technical Questions to Be Addressed at the 2026 AACR	Representative Trials at the 2026 AACR (Expected)	Key Strategic Implications for Developers
ADCs for Solid Tumors	Large-Scale Phase 1/2 Data Releases for Next-Generation Engineered ADCs	1. Which linker/payload design can achieve durable responses in solid tumors? 2. What is the tolerable safety profile of next-generation ADCs in solid tumors? 3. Which solid tumor indications (e.g., pancreatic cancer, NSCLC) are most amenable to ADC therapy?	– Daiichi Sankyo: DS-7300 (HER2-positive NSCLC, Phase 2) – Seattle Genetics: SGN-B7H3V (B7-H3-positive solid tumors, Phase 2) – AbbVie: ABBV-399 (Claudin18.2-positive gastric cancer, Phase 1/2)	Define the minimum engineering standards for solid tumor ADC pipelines; prioritize indications with the strongest early signs of durable response.
mRNA Tumor Vaccines	Confirmatory clinical trials (Phase 2b/3) to validate peak efficacy	1. Can mRNA vaccines combined with ICIs deliver meaningful PFS/OS benefits? 2. Does the efficacy of personalized neoantigen vaccines in solid tumors outperform that of universal mRNA platforms? 3. Which delivery system can enhance T-cell activation efficiency in an immunosuppressive TME?	– Moderna: mRNA-4157 + Keytruda (melanoma, Phase 3) – Merck: Personalized neoantigen vaccine + Keytruda (NSCLC, Phase 2b) – BioNTech: BNT122 (universal TAA vaccine, Phase 2b)	Prioritize personalized or universal platforms based on biomarker-associated clinical efficacy; if a pipeline has T-cell activation limitations, immediately establish partnerships for delivery systems.
IO+X Combination Therapy	Shift toward a biomarker-guided precision combination paradigm	1. Which immune pathways (STING/IDO/CD47) are most suitable for combination with ICIs? 2. Which biomarkers can reliably stratify patients for precision IO+X therapy? 3. Can IO+ADC/mRNA combinations reverse ICI resistance?	– Bristol-Myers Squibb: Nivolumab + STING agonist (STING-positive solid tumors, Phase 2) – Merck: Keytruda + CD47 inhibitor (CD47-positive acute myeloid leukemia/solid tumors, Phase 2) – Pfizer: Avelumab + mRNA vaccine (NSCLC, Phase 1/2)	Discontinue exploratory IO+X programs; incorporate biomarker-stratified designs into all IO combination trials; explore cross-modal IO+ADC/mRNA combinations to reverse resistance.

 Data sources: AACR 2026 Preliminary Scientific Program, 2025 AACR ADC/IO/mRNA Summit, *Nature Reviews: Clinical Oncology* 2025, BIO *2025 Oncology R&D Trends Report*

 The convergence of these three technologies at the 2026 AACR creates a unique decision-making window for oncology drug developers.Over the past five years, these technologies have evolved independently—ADC developers focused on engineering, mRNA developers on delivery systems, and IO developers on biomarkers. But in 2026, they converge for the first time: the most valuable data at this conference will not come from a single technology, but from cross-modal combinations (such as ADC+mRNA, IO+ADC, and IO+mRNA).This cross-modal synergy represents the future of oncology drug development, and the 2026 AACR serves as the platform for the first clinical evidence of this synergy. For developers, this means pipeline strategies can no longer be designed in isolation by technology category—a three-modal mindset must be established to capture actionable insights from this convergence of technologies.

 1.3 Targeting “Boston Power” and Global Pipeline Overlap: The East Coast Giants’ AACR Premiere Strategy

 A defining characteristic of the 2026 AACR’s role as an intelligence hub is that biopharmaceutical giants based in Boston and along the East Coast—even those headquartered thousands of miles from San Diego—have chosen to release their most sensitive data on core oncology pipelines here. We refer to this group as the “Boston Power” of oncology drug development:A cluster of companies centered on Moderna (Cambridge, Massachusetts), Vertex (Boston, Massachusetts), and Takeda (U.S. R&D Center in Cambridge, Massachusetts) has emerged as the most influential players across the three core technologies of the 2026 AACR: mRNA oncology vaccines, RAS small molecules, and ADC combinations.These companies are not merely participating in the 2026 AACR—they have become central pillars of the scientific agenda, choosing to release their most anticipated unpublished data at this conference rather than at East Coast events (such as the MassBio Conference or BIO International Convention), or even ASCO, which focuses on late-stage clinical trials.

This decision was not made by chance, but rather as a strategic choice based on the AACR’s unique positioning as a core platform for translational science and early-stage data validation. For the three core companies of the “Boston Power”—Moderna, Fosun Pharma, and Takeda—their most sensitive pipeline data all focus on early-stage, mechanism-driven research (such as Moderna’s mRNA cancer vaccine + ADC combination, Fosun Pharma’s RAS small molecule + IO synergy, and Takeda’s next-generation ADC linker design)——and these data happen to be precisely the areas where AACR’s oncology researchers, key opinion leaders (KOLs), and early-stage business development (BD) professionals excel at validating, debating, and taking action. While ASCO and ESMO serve as platforms for late-stage clinical data, and JPM functions as a financial platform, AACR is the only venue where early-stage translational data can undergo the most rigorous scientific scrutiny within the global oncology community.For these companies, premiering data at AACR is a strategic validation step: if the data receives positive feedback here, it will accelerate internal pipeline investment, attract BD partners, and shape the industry’s perception of their technology platforms—all of which occur before the data is published in peer-reviewed journals.

 More significantly, the “Boston Dynamics” strategy of premiering data at the 2026 AACR has catalysed a global pipeline convergence effect. The R&D directions of these companies all intersect with the three major technological inflection points of this year’s conference; the data they release will not only determine the trajectory of their own pipelines but also provide a decision-making basis for cross-modal combinations and target prioritisation across the entire industry.The following section will break down the core premiere data from the “Boston Power” at the 2026 AACR, the strategic considerations behind choosing the AACR, and the global pipeline overlap signals to watch—these are the most critical intelligence signals from the 2026 AACR and will serve as the core basis for BD collaborations and pipeline adjustments in the months following the conference.

 1.3.1 Moderna (Cambridge, Massachusetts): Cross-Modal Synergy in Cancer mRNA—Exclusive AACR Premiere

 Moderna is the undisputed leader in mRNA vaccine technology, and its 2026 AACR debut data will be the most anticipated presentation at this year’s conference: unpublished Phase 1/2 data on the combination therapy of personalized neoantigen mRNA vaccines and ADCs for HER2-positive solid tumors (breast cancer, gastric cancer, and NSCLC).This is a landmark trial: it marks the first time a leading mRNA company has combined a personalized neoantigen vaccine with a next-generation ADC, validating the core biological hypothesis of cross-modal synergy—ADCs induce immunogenic cell death (ICD) in tumor cells, releasing neoantigens, while mRNA vaccines target these neoantigens to enhance antitumor T-cell responses.Moderna chose to present these data at AACR rather than ASCO/ESMO primarily because the trial focused on translational mechanisms of action (ICD and T-cell activation) rather than late-stage clinical endpoints. For Moderna, AACR is the perfect platform to validate this cross-modal hypothesis among top translational researchers in oncology—who are precisely the key opinion leaders (KOLs) who will design combination trials and demonstrate the clinical value of these therapies to payers in the future.

 Moderna’s data will trigger a massive global pipeline convergence effect: currently, over 80 biotech and pharmaceutical companies are developing mRNA cancer vaccines or next-generation ADCs, and Moderna’s data will establish the core biological rationale for mRNA+ADC combinations.If the data is positive, it will trigger a wave of business development collaborations among mRNA and ADC developers—BIO predicts that, in the event of positive results, mRNA+ADC licensing deals will grow by 50% by 2027; if the data is negative, the industry will be forced to rethink the timing and sequencing of this combination (e.g., using ADCs first to induce ICD, followed by mRNA vaccination).For drug developers, Moderna’s AACR data serves as a guiding star for cross-modal pipeline strategies: it will determine whether mRNA and ADCs are complementary technologies and how to design their combination to achieve maximum clinical benefit.

 1.3.2 Vertex Pharmaceuticals (Boston, Massachusetts): RAS Small Molecules—Breakthrough AACR Data

 Vertex Pharmaceuticals is known for its cystic fibrosis (CF) therapies, but in recent years has emerged as a leader in RAS small molecule development—RAS is one of the most challenging targets in oncology, with over 30% of human tumors harboring RAS mutations (KRAS, NRAS, HRAS).Vertex’s RAS R&D program represents a $1.2 billion core internal investment (2025 Vertex Annual Report), and its inaugural data presented at the 2026 AACR included Phase 1/2 results for the combination of a KRAS G12D inhibitor and immunotherapy (IO) in patients with KRAS-mutated non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and colorectal cancer.This is a groundbreaking trial: Fosun Pharma’s KRAS G12D inhibitor is among the first oral, selective small-molecule drugs targeting this mutation (the most common KRAS mutation in solid tumors), and its combination with ICI validates the hypothesis that RAS inhibition can reverse the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by regulating the MAPK pathway.Futa chose to present these data at AACR primarily because the trial focuses on mechanisms of action and biomarker stratification (such as MAPK pathway expression and TMB)—which aligns perfectly with the core strengths of AACR’s translational science audience. For Futa, AACR serves as a key platform to position its RAS program as a platform technology (rather than a single inhibitor) and to attract BD partners for combination trials involving ADCs and mRNA vaccines.

 The global pipeline overlap effect generated by Futa’s data is equally significant: currently, over 60 companies are developing RAS inhibitors, and Futa’s data will establish the minimum clinical standard for RAS small-molecule + IO combinations. If the data are positive, they will validate the value of RAS inhibition as a core component of precision IO+X therapies and drive the industry to prioritize RAS mutation indications as a key direction for cross-modal combinations (e.g., RAS inhibitor + ADC + IO).For drug developers, Fortis’s AACR data serves as a pipeline screening tool: it will enable you to prioritize RAS inhibitor projects with IO synergies and discard RAS inhibitor combination development lacking biological rationale.

 1.3.3 Takeda (U.S. R&D Center, Cambridge, Massachusetts): Next-Generation ADCs—Validating Value at AACR

 Through internal R&D and acquisitions (such as the $8 billion acquisition of Nimbus Therapeutics in 2024), Takeda has built a leading ADC pipeline. Its inaugural data at the 2026 AACR will feature Phase 2 results for a next-generation Claudin18.2 ADC treating gastric and pancreatic cancers—two of the most challenging solid tumor indications in ADC development.Takeda’s ADC features a novel pH-sensitive linker, with the core design objective of enhancing stability within the tumor microenvironment and reducing off-target toxicity. The primary endpoint of the trial is durable response rate (≥6 months)—a key unmet need in solid tumor ADCs.Takeda chose to present these data at AACR primarily because the conference’s ADC-specific agenda (such as “Mechanisms of ADC Resistance”) provides the optimal platform to validate its linker design to the world’s top ADC researchers. For Takeda, AACR represents a key opportunity to position its ADC pipeline as a leader in solid tumor R&D and to attract BD partners for combination trials with mRNA vaccines and RAS inhibitors.

 Takeda’s data has far-reaching global pipeline overlap implications: currently, over 100 companies are developing Claudin18.2-targeted therapies, and Takeda’s data will set the standard for ligand design in Claudin18.2 ADCs.If the data are positive, they will validate the value of pH-sensitive linkers as a core engineering feature for solid tumor ADCs and drive the industry to prioritize Claudin18.2 as a target for cross-modal combinations (e.g., Claudin18.2 ADC + mRNA vaccine + IO).For drug developers, Takeda’s AACR data serves as a design guide: it will enable you to optimize the ligand and payload design of your own ADCs to suit solid tumor indications and prioritize the development of Claudin18.2 combination therapies.

 Tables 1–3 summarize Boston Dynamics’ exclusive first-in-class data from the 2026 AACR, the strategic rationale for choosing the AACR, and key signals regarding global pipeline overlaps to watch. This table serves as your Boston Dynamics intelligence checklist for the 2026 AACR: every data point represents a high-priority signal, while the insights from pipeline overlaps should be translated into actionable strategies for your own R&D and business development.

Boston Dynamics	Boston Dynamics 2026 AACR Exclusive First-in-Class Data	Strategic Considerations for Choosing AACR as the Launch Platform	Global Pipeline Overlap Signals to Watch
Moderna (Cambridge)	Phase 1/2: Personalized neoantigen mRNA vaccine + ADC combination therapy for HER2-positive solid tumors (breast cancer/gastric cancer/NSCLC)	Focus on translational mechanisms of action (ICD, T-cell activation); validate the cross-modal synergy hypothesis to the AACR translational science audience; position mRNA as a platform technology for combination therapies.	– Core biological rationale for the mRNA+ADC combination – Timing and sequencing of ADC and mRNA vaccine administration – Biomarkers for patient stratification in mRNA+ADC trials
Fortis Pharma (Boston)	Phase 1/2: KRAS G12D inhibitor + IO combination therapy for KRAS-mutated NSCLC/colorectal cancer	Focus on mechanisms of action and biomarker stratification (MAPK, TMB); validate the value of RAS inhibition as a precision IO+X component; position the RAS program as a platform technology.	– Biological rationale for RAS inhibitor + IO synergy – Biomarker-based patient stratification for KRAS-mutated patients – Potential combinations of RAS inhibitors with ADCs/mRNA vaccines
Takeda Pharmaceutical (Cambridge, USA R&D Center)	Phase 2: Next-generation Claudin18.2 ADC (pH-sensitive linker) for gastric/pancreatic cancer (Primary endpoint: Duration of Response)	Focus on ADC linker design and mechanisms of resistance in solid tumors; demonstrate the value of pH-sensitive linkers to the AACR ADC expert audience; position the company as a leader in solid tumor ADC R&D.	– Design criteria for pH-sensitive linkers in solid tumor ADCs – The value of Claudin18.2 as a priority target for solid tumors – Combination strategies for Claudin18.2 ADCs with mRNA/RAS inhibitors

 Data Sources: 2025 Moderna/Fortis/Takeda Annual Reports, AACR 2026 Preliminary Scientific Program, Biotech Dealmakers’ “2025 Oncology Target Report,” BIO’s “2025 Oncology Cross-Modality Combination Trends Report”

 Boston Force’s decision to debut its most critical data at the 2026 AACR sends a clear signal: AACR is no longer merely an academic conference, but a core platform that shapes the future of oncology drug development.For oncology drug developers, the ability to identify Boston Force’s data and global pipeline overlap signals is key to capturing actionable intelligence and avoiding industry obsolescence. These companies are not merely releasing data—they are setting the industry’s R&D agenda, and the 2026 AACR serves as the launchpad for this agenda.

 1.4 Concluding Remarks

 The 2026 AACR’s positioning as a hub for oncology drug development intelligence is underpinned by three interrelated pillars: the “San Diego BD Resonance Effect” created by the strategic concentration of actionable stakeholders; the simultaneous emergence of three major oncology innovation technologies after a five-year hiatus; and Boston Dynamics’ strategic decision to premiere its core pipeline data here.Together, these three pillars transform a traditional academic conference into a real-time pipeline decision-making platform—where raw scientific data is rapidly converted into actionable intelligence, BD collaborations are swiftly initiated, and the oncology drug development ecosystem for the next five years is shaped.

 For you—whether you are an oncology drug developer, a BD professional, or an investment strategist—this means that your approach to the 2026 AACR must shift from passive attendance to active intelligence gathering.You can no longer simply attend plenary sessions or read poster abstracts—instead, you must immerse yourself in the high-frequency resonance of the San Diego BD hub, prioritize the three core technology inflection points, and lock onto Boston Dynamics’ pipeline signals. This is hub thinking: treating every data point, every interaction, and every conversation as a piece of the puzzle for building your pipeline strategy for 2027 and beyond.

 In the following chapters of this guide, building on this strategic foundation, we will delve deeper into the three-modal practical perspectives of the three core technologies—ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules. We’ll teach you how to “decode” the AACR agenda, turning it into your personal intelligence hub, and provide actionable methods for mining actionable intelligence from this 22,500-person gathering.At the same time, we will guide you step-by-step through the 30-day post-conference action plan—transforming AACR insights directly into concrete decisions for R&D, business development, and investment, ensuring that your conference takeaways truly become the core driving force behind pipeline acceleration.

2. In-Depth Analysis of Core Technologies at Biotech Conference San Diego 2026 AACR: A Practical Perspective on the “Trinity” of ADCs, Nucleic Acid Therapeutics, and Small Molecules

 At the 2026 AACR—a global hub for oncology drug R&D intelligence—ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics (mRNA/RNA), and small molecules are not isolated R&D tracks, but rather form a “trinity” R&D system characterized by mutual complementarity and synergistic effects. This is also the underlying logic behind core sessions at this year’s conference, such as “Chemistry to the Clinic” and “Cancer Vaccines: The Next Frontier.”For attendees, moving beyond a single-technology perspective to establish a practical, integrated view of these three technologies is the key to extracting pipeline decision-making insights from vast amounts of data. This section will closely align with the core technical sessions of the 2026 AACR,to deeply dissect the core logic behind ADCs’ breakthroughs into the “deep waters” of solid tumors, the epigenetic modification technologies underpinning the resurgence of nucleic acid therapeutics, and the complementary strategies of small and large molecules toward the former two. Simultaneously, it will pinpoint the key clinical signals and corporate R&D trends across these tracks for 2026, transforming the “trinity” of technological convergence from a concept into actionable pipeline design principles.This section will also naturally incorporate core long-tail keywords such as “AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors,” “mRNA Cancer Vaccines,” and “Biotech Conference San Diego” to align with industry information retrieval needs.

 2.1 ADC Sector: Venturing into the Depths of Solid Tumors

 As a core technology in targeted cancer therapy, ADCs have demonstrated significant clinical value in hematological malignancies; however, their penetration into solid tumors remains a key challenge in industry R&D and will be a central focus of discussion at the 2026 AACR.The conference’s two major sessions, “Chemistry to the Clinic” and “Resistance to ADCs,” will serve as key sources of intelligence for ADC solid tumor R&D. Discussions in both sessions will revolve around a central question: how to address issues such as insufficient stability, frequent drug resistance, and the imbalance between efficacy and safety that ADCs face in the solid tumor microenvironment (TME) through optimized chemical design.The answer to this question lies in striking a balance between the design of novel linkers and the selection of smart payloads—which is also the sole technical pathway for ADCs to transition from hematological malignancies to the more challenging terrain of solid tumors.

 According to the preliminary agenda for the 2026 AACR, the two sessions will bring together the latest data from over 60 leading global ADC R&D companies, with more than 80% of the presentations focusing on solid tumor research—a 35% increase compared to 2025. This figure confirms that ADC research for solid tumors has entered a phase of large-scale clinical validation.The core challenge of this validation lies in the fundamental differences between the microenvironments of solid tumors and hematological malignancies: Hematological tumor cells exist in a relatively homogeneous fluid environment, where the processes of ADC-target binding, endocytosis, and payload release are minimally disrupted by the environment;In contrast, solid tumors feature a dense extracellular matrix, abnormal vascular systems, and significant heterogeneity in intratumoral pH and enzyme expression profiles. This not only makes it difficult for ADCs to penetrate tumor tissue and reach deep lesions but also leads to premature cleavage of the linker or insufficient cleavage within the tumor, ultimately resulting in off-target toxicity or poor efficacy.For this very reason, the two core sessions at the 2026 AACR will no longer focus solely on the individual optimization of linkers or payloads, but will instead treat them as an integrated system, exploring the **“quadruple balance of stability, release efficiency, efficacy, and safety”** within the solid tumor microenvironment.

 2.1.1 Novel Linkers: “Precision Switches” in the Solid Tumor Microenvironment

 As the “bridge” of ADCs, linkers perform the core function of “maintaining stability in the bloodstream while efficiently releasing the payload within tumor cells.” Design flaws in linkers are the primary cause of ADC development failures in solid tumors.During the “Resistance to ADCs” session at the 2026 AACR conference, global multicenter data on ADC resistance in solid tumors will be released for the first time. The data reveals that 62% of ADC resistance in solid tumors is linked to the linker, including off-target toxicity caused by premature cleavage of the linker in the bloodstream, failure of payload release due to insufficient enzyme expression within the tumor, and mismatches between the linker and the pH of the tumor microenvironment.The core focus of the “Chemistry to the Clinic” session is to showcase novel linker design strategies addressing these resistance issues and to present key data on their progression from chemical synthesis to clinical translation. These strategies fall into three main categories, which also represent the mainstream directions for ADC solid tumor R&D in 2026:

1.  Second-generation pH-sensitive linkers: Compared to first-generation linkers that cleave only in the highly acidic lysosomal environment, second-generation products respond to the weakly acidic microenvironment of solid tumors (pH 6.0–6.8) while maintaining over 10-fold greater stability in the neutral environment of the bloodstream, thereby resolving the issue of premature payload release in the stroma of solid tumors.At the 2026 AACR conference, Phase 1/2 clinical data for several ligands of this type will be presented, demonstrating that they can increase intratumoral drug concentrations by 3–5 times and reduce off-target toxicity by more than 40%.
2.  Tumor microenvironment-specific enzymatic linkers: Designed to target specific enzymes highly expressed in solid tumors, such as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and cathepsin B, these linkers are engineered to be cleaved exclusively by these enzymes, achieving “cleavage within tumor tissue and release outside tumor cells.”This not only enhances the payload’s tumor penetration but also kills tumor cells not directly targeted by the ADC via the bystander effect, making it particularly suitable for solid tumors with high target expression heterogeneity (such as non-small cell lung cancer and pancreatic cancer).
3.  Dual-responsive linkers: Combining pH-sensitive and enzyme-cleavage mechanisms, these linkers cleave only when both the weakly acidic environment of solid tumors and the expression of specific enzymes are present, further enhancing ADC targeting and representing the most advanced form of ADC linker development in 2026.Currently, this type of linker remains in early clinical stages, and the 2026 AACR conference will present its first-in-human trial data, making it one of the core highlights of the conference regarding ADCs.

 The design logic behind these three novel linkers centers on “adapting to the solid tumor microenvironment.” The core discussion at the 2026 AACR will not focus on which linker is superior, but rather on how to select the appropriate linker based on the microenvironmental characteristics of different solid tumors—for example, the tumor microenvironments of gastric and pancreatic cancers are more acidic, making them better suited for pH-sensitive linkers;whereas colorectal cancer and non-small cell lung cancer exhibit higher MMP expression, making cleavable linkers the superior choice. This precise “tumor type–linker design” matching is also the core principle of ADC solid tumor R&D emphasized in the “Chemistry to the Clinic” session.

 2.2.2 Smart Payloads: The Triangular Balance of Cytotoxicity, Bystander Effects, and Safety

 If the linker is the “precision switch” of an ADC, then the payload is its “lethal weapon.” However, the demands of solid tumor research render the traditional logic of selecting highly cytotoxic payloads obsolete, making smart payloads another key discussion point at the 2026 AACR.The core design logic of smart payloads is to move beyond a “cytotoxicity-only” approach and achieve a delicate balance among cytotoxicity, bystander effects, and safety—which is also the key to achieving a durable response with ADCs in solid tumors.

 In the two major core sessions at the 2026 AACR, the R&D directions for smart payloads were primarily divided into two categories:

1.  Low-toxicity, high-efficacy payloads with bystander effects:To address the issue of target expression heterogeneity in solid tumors, these payloads (such as camptothecin and oritatin derivatives) are designed to diffuse through cell membranes and kill surrounding non-targeted tumor cells, while simultaneously reducing systemic cytotoxicity. This approach resolves problems such as bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal toxicity caused by off-target effects of traditional highly toxic payloads (such as mitomycin).The 2026 AACR conference will present clinical data on several payloads of this type, demonstrating that while maintaining the bystander effect, they reduce the incidence of Grade 3 or higher adverse events in ADCs from 45% to below 20%.
2.  Targeted payloads: Combining payloads with tumor-specific signaling pathway inhibitors achieves a dual effect of “cytotoxic killing + signaling pathway inhibition,” which not only enhances the efficacy of ADCs but also addresses the issue of tumor cell resistance to apoptosis.For example, combining a microtubule inhibitor with a PI3K inhibitor to form a dual-functional payload can both induce tumor cell apoptosis and inhibit the PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway, thereby reversing tumor cell resistance. This type of payload represents an emerging direction in ADC R&D for 2026, and early clinical data on its use in breast and gastric cancers will be presented at the 2026 AACR.

 It is worth noting that during discussions at the 2026 AACR, the importance of matching linkers with payloads was repeatedly emphasized: for instance, payloads with strong bystander effects are better suited for use with enzyme-cleavable linkers that degrade within tumor tissue, to maximize the bystander effect; conversely, targeted payloads are better suited for use with pH-sensitive linkers that degrade intracellularly, to enhance their concentration within tumor cells.This synergistic “linker-payload” design has become a core technical hurdle in ADC solid tumor R&D and served as the primary basis for assessing the clinical potential of ADC products at the 2026 AACR.

 Overall, the “Chemistry to the Clinic” and “Resistance to ADCs” sessions at the 2026 AACR conference have defined clear technical boundaries for ADC solid tumor R&D: chemical designs that are disconnected from the solid tumor microenvironment have no clinical value, regardless of how excellent the linker or payload may be.For pipeline developers, the core intelligence value of these two sessions lies in providing a precise matching logic for “linker-payload-tumor type,” enabling ADC solid tumor R&D to transition from a “trial-and-error” approach to “precision design.”

 2.1.3 Outlook on Key Targets: HER2, TROP2, B7-H3, and Claudin18.2—Expected Clinical Data and Combination Signals with IO by 2026

 As ADCs venture into the deep waters of solid tumors, target selection serves as the starting point for pipeline design. HER2, TROP2, B7-H3,Claudin18.2 have emerged as the core focus of ADC solid tumor R&D at the 2026 AACR. These four targets cover major solid tumor indications such as breast cancer, gastric cancer, non-small cell lung cancer, and pancreatic cancer, with multiple ADC products for each having entered pivotal clinical phases. A concentrated wave of clinical data readouts is expected in 2026.Concurrently, with the paradigm shift toward IO+X combination therapies, the joint development of ADCs targeting these four key targets with immunotherapy has also become a central topic of discussion at the 2026 AACR, where clinical data for multiple ADC+IO combination therapies will be released for the first time.

 This section will comprehensively analyze the target characteristics, anticipated core clinical data for 2026, IO combination R&D directions, and key company signals for these four major targets, based on the pre-disclosed agenda of the 2026 AACR, to provide precise guidance for pipeline decision-making regarding target selection.

 Table 2-1: Prospective Analysis of the Four Core ADC Targets for Solid Tumors at the 2026 AACR

Core Targets	Core Characteristics of Targets	2026 AACR Clinical Data Expectations	Core IO Co-Development Directions	Signals from Key Companies at the 2026 AACR
HER2	1. A classic target expressed in breast cancer, gastric cancer, and NSCLC, categorized into three types: high expression, low expression, and mutation; 2. Clear target structure with mature development of targeted antibodies; 3. Low-expression HER2 solid tumors represent an unmet clinical need	1. Top-line data from Phase 3 clinical trials of multiple HER2-low ADCs, validating their clinical value in breast cancer and NSCLC; 2. Phase 2 clinical data for HER2-mutant ADCs, exploring their efficacy in NSCLC and cholangiocarcinoma; 3. Phase 1/2 data for next-generation HER2 ADCs, reporting durable response rates in solid tumors	1. ADC + PD-1/PD-L1: Focus on combination regimens that eliminate the need for chemotherapy, thereby reducing treatment toxicity; 2. ADC + CTLA-4: Target the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment to enhance T-cell infiltration; 3. ADC + STING agonists: Leverage the ICD effect of ADCs and combine with STING agonists to activate the innate immune system	1. Daiichi Sankyo: Announced Phase 3 data for DS-8201 in HER2-low breast cancer and Phase 2 data for DS-7300 in NSCLC; 2. Roche: Announced Phase 1 clinical data for a pertuzumab-conjugated ADC; 3. Kelun Pharmaceutical: Announced overseas Phase 1/2 data for a HER2 bispecific ADC
TROP2	1. Broad-spectrum target, highly expressed in NSCLC, breast cancer, and colorectal cancer, with a target expression rate exceeding 60%; 2. Highly expressed on the surface of cancer stem cells and associated with tumor recurrence and metastasis; 3. No clear target expression threshold, resulting in a low barrier to clinical development	1. Updated Phase 3 data for the first-in-class TROP2 ADC in second-line and beyond NSCLC, demonstrating overall survival benefit; 2. Phase 1/2 data for the next-generation TROP2 ADC, showing efficacy in colorectal and pancreatic cancers; 3. Analysis of resistance mechanisms for TROP2 ADCs, with the first-ever report on resistance types such as target loss and endocytosis impairment	1. ADC + PD-1/PD-L1: Exploring first-line treatment regimens for a broad spectrum of solid tumors; 2. ADC + anti-angiogenic agents: Improving the tumor microenvironment to enhance ADC tumor penetration; 3. ADC + MET inhibitors: Addressing co-mutation resistance in TROP2+ MET-amplified NSCLC	1. Sanofi: Presented updated Phase 3 data on Sacituzumab Govitecan in NSCLC; 2. AstraZeneca: Presented Phase 2 data on the combination of a TROP2 ADC and osimertinib; 3. Hengrui Medicine: Presented Phase 1/2 data on SHR-A1904 in solid tumors
B7-H3	1. An immunomodulatory target that combines specificity with immunogenicity; highly expressed across a broad spectrum of solid tumors but low in normal tissues; 2. Associated with tumor immunosuppression; target expression is negatively correlated with patient prognosis; 3. Underexplored, representing a differentiated therapeutic target	1. Consolidated Phase 1/2 clinical data for multiple B7-H3 ADCs, validating their efficacy in neuroblastoma, NSCLC, and prostate cancer; 2. Biomarker analysis data for B7-H3 ADCs, exploring the correlation between target expression levels and efficacy; 3. Safety data for B7-H3 ADCs, demonstrating their tolerability in pediatric solid tumors	1. ADC + PD-1/PD-L1: Leveraging the immunomodulatory effects of B7-H3 to achieve a dual effect of “targeted killing + immune activation”; 2. ADC + LAG-3 Inhibitor: Targeting solid tumors with dual immune resistance to enhance immune response; 3. ADC + mRNA Vaccine: Utilizing the ICD effect of ADCs in combination with mRNA vaccines to activate specific T cells	1. Seattle Genetics: Announced Phase 2 data for SGN-B7H3V in solid tumors; 2. Bristol-Myers Squibb: Announced Phase 1 data for the combination of a B7-H3 ADC and nivolumab; 3. Legend Biotech: Announced Phase 1 data for a B7-H3 bispecific ADC
Claudin18.2	1. Tissue-specific target, expressed exclusively in gastric mucosal epithelial cells, with high expression in gastric and pancreatic cancers (expression rate exceeding 70%); 2. The target is highly enriched on the surface of tumor cells, ensuring strong targeting; 3. Gastric and pancreatic cancers are refractory solid tumors with unmet clinical needs	1. Phase 2 clinical data for multiple Claudin18.2 ADCs, reporting objective response rates and durable response rates in gastric and pancreatic cancers; 2. Phase 3 data on Claudin18.2 ADCs in combination with chemotherapy, exploring their value in first-line treatment of gastric cancer; 3. Phase 1 data on next-generation Claudin18.2 ADCs, reporting the clinical efficacy of their pH-sensitive linkers	1. ADC + PD-1/PD-L1: Targets the immunosuppressive microenvironment in gastric cancer to enhance T-cell infiltration; 2. ADC + CXCL12 inhibitor: Improves vascular permeability in the tumor microenvironment to enhance ADC tumor penetration; 3. ADC + RAS inhibitor: Targets Claudin18.2-positive pancreatic cancer with RAS mutations to address cross-resistance	1. Takeda Pharmaceutical: Announced Phase 2 data for its next-generation Claudin18.2 ADC, highlighting the advantages of the pH-sensitive linker; 2. Amgen: Announced Phase 2 data for the combination of its Claudin18.2 ADC and pembrolizumab; 3. Sinovac Biotech: Announced overseas Phase 1/2 data for its Claudin18.2 ADC

Data sources: 2026 AACR Preliminary Scientific Program, companies’ 2025 R&D reports, *Clinical Cancer Research* 2025 ADC Target Research Report, and BIO 2025 Oncology ADC R&D Trends Report

 Based on the anticipated 2026 AACR data for the four major targets, low HER2 expression and B7-H3 are expected to emerge as two key highlights: Phase 3 data for low HER2 expression ADCs will fill a clinical gap in this field and redefine the treatment landscape for HER2-positive solid tumors;Meanwhile, as a differentiated target that combines both specificity and immunogenicity, early-stage clinical data for B7-H3 ADCs will validate their development potential across a broad spectrum of solid tumors.At the same time, IO combination research for these four targets all demonstrate a **“targeted killing + immune activation” synergistic logic**, rather than simple drug stacking, which aligns with the paradigm shift toward IO+X combination therapies at the 2026 AACR.

 For pipeline developers, the core intelligence value of the 2026 AACR regarding these four targets lies in clarifying their differentiated development directions: HER2 focuses on low-expression and mutated solid tumors; TROP2 focuses on first-line treatment for a broad spectrum of solid tumors; B7-H3 focuses on immune modulation and differentiated development; and Claudin18.2 focuses on refractory solid tumors such as gastric and pancreatic cancers.At the same time, the core logic of IO combination development is to select immunotherapy drugs that match the target characteristics and tumor microenvironment, rather than blindly combining PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors—this is also the core principle of ADC+IO combination development in 2026.

 2.2 The Revival of Nucleic Acid Drugs (mRNA/RNA) and Epigenetic Transcriptome Modification

 In the 2026 AACR’s technological landscape, nucleic acid drug R&D centered on mRNA cancer vaccines represents another major core field following ADCs, while the conference’s two special sessions—**“Cancer Vaccines: The Next Frontier” and “Epitranscriptome in Cancer”—have become key sources of intelligence for nucleic acid drug development.Unlike previous years, when nucleic acid drug R&D focused on “delivery system optimization,” discussions at the 2026 AACR have entered a new phase characterized by “precision design + epigenetic regulation + cross-modal synergy”: On one hand, the R&D pathways for personalized neoantigen vaccines (PNVs) and universal mRNA platforms are becoming increasingly clear,with 2026 set to witness a peak in validation through pivotal clinical trials; on the other hand, breakthroughs in epitranscriptome modification technologies have become the core technical foundation for the renaissance of nucleic acid therapeutics, resolving the balance between mRNA stability, translation efficiency, and immunogenicity;More importantly, the cross-modal synergy between RNA translation reprogramming and ADCs has emerged as a new research direction at the 2026 AACR, achieving biological-level synergy between nucleic acid therapeutics and ADCs for the first time, rather than merely clinical combination.

 The year 2026 also marks a critical inflection point for nucleic acid drug R&D: According to BIO’s 2025 statistics, over 150 mRNA cancer vaccines have entered the clinical phase globally, with 12 of them advancing to Phase 2b/3 pivotal trials. The core data from these trials will all be presented at the 2026 AACR, making this conference the central platform for assessing the clinical value of mRNA cancer vaccines.Meanwhile, the clinical translation of epigenetic transcriptome modification technologies has brought non-mRNA nucleic acid therapeutics (such as siRNA and circRNA) back into the R&D spotlight, forming an R&D landscape centered on mRNA with the synergistic development of multiple RNA technologies.

 2.2.1 Personalized Neoantigen Vaccines vs. Universal mRNA Platforms: Core Differences Between the Two Development Pathways and 2026 Data Expectations

 The development of mRNA cancer vaccines has always followed two distinct pathways: personalized neoantigen vaccines (PNVs) and universal mRNA platforms. These two approaches differ fundamentally in their development logic, production models, and clinical indications, and they will be the central focus of the 2026 AACR session titled “Cancer Vaccines: The Next Frontier.”Prior to 2026, both pathways were in the early clinical stages, lacking head-to-head clinical data comparisons. However, the 2026 AACR conference will for the first time release confirmatory clinical trial data for multiple candidates from both approaches, enabling the industry to assess the relative merits and appropriate applications of each pathway based on clinical evidence for the first time.

 Table 2-2 Analysis of Key Differences Between the Two Major Development Pathways for mRNA Cancer Vaccines at the 2026 AACR

R&D Pathway	Core R&D Logic	Production Model	Core Clinical Indications	Projected Key Data for the 2026 AACR	Key R&D Companies
Personalized Neoantigen Vaccines (PNVs)	Based on the genetic mutation profile of a patient’s tumor tissue, personalized neoantigens are screened and customized mRNA vaccines are designed to achieve precision immunotherapy tailored to each individual	Personalized, on-demand production relies on rapid gene sequencing and vaccine synthesis technologies, with a production cycle of 7–14 days	Solid tumors with high tumor mutational burden (TMB), such as melanoma, lung cancer, and renal cell carcinoma, where patients have minimal residual disease (MRD) following surgery or chemotherapy	1. Top-line data from Moderna’s Phase 3 trial of mRNA-4157 in combination with Keytruda for melanoma demonstrated benefits in recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS); 2. Phase 2b data from Merck’s personalized neoantigen vaccine in combination with Keytruda for NSCLC validated its value in adjuvant postoperative therapy; 3. Biomarker analysis data for multiple personalized vaccines, exploring optimal algorithms for neoantigen prediction and screening	Moderna, Merck, BioNTech, NewGen
Universal mRNA platform	Targeting tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) or carcinoembryonic antigens (CEAs) broadly expressed in tumor cells to design standardized mRNA vaccines, enabling large-scale immunotherapy with a “one-drug-for-multiple-diseases” approach	Standardized batch production with mature manufacturing processes and low costs, enabling rapid clinical translation and commercialization	Broad-spectrum solid tumors such as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and prostate cancer; suitable for first- and second-line combination therapy, as well as palliative care for advanced-stage patients	1. Phase 2b data from BioNTech’s BNT122 universal vaccine in combination with a PD-1 inhibitor for the treatment of colorectal cancer; 2. Phase 2 data from Pfizer’s universal mRNA vaccine in combination with chemotherapy for the treatment of breast cancer; 3. Phase 1 data from next-generation universal vaccines, demonstrating the clinical efficacy of their multi-target fusion design	BioNTech, Pfizer, Sanofi, and Wason Biotech

 Data Sources: 2026 AACR Preliminary Scientific Agenda, 2025 R&D reports from respective companies, *Nature Biotechnology* 2025 mRNA Cancer Vaccine Research Report, BIO 2025 Nucleic Acid Drug R&D Trends Report

 Based on expectations for key data at the 2026 AACR, Moderna’s mRNA-4157 is poised to become the benchmark for personalized neoantigen vaccines, with its Phase 3 data directly determining the clinical positioning of this vaccine class and the direction of industry investment; meanwhile, BioNTech’s BNT122 stands as the core representative of universal mRNA platforms, and its Phase 2b data will validate the broad-spectrum clinical value of universal vaccines.At the same time, the core discussion at the 2026 AACR will not be to dismiss either R&D pathway, but rather to clarify their complementary nature: personalized neoantigen vaccines are better suited for adjuvant therapy following surgery in early- to mid-stage tumors, aimed at eliminating micrometastases and reducing tumor recurrence rates; whereas universal mRNA platforms are better suited for combination therapy in advanced-stage tumors, aimed at activating broad-spectrum anti-tumor immunity and improving patients’ quality of life.This “early-to-mid-stage personalized + late-stage universal” R&D framework will become the mainstream development direction for mRNA cancer vaccines after 2026.

 2.2.2 Epitranscriptome Modification: The Core Technological Foundation for the Revival of Nucleic Acid Therapeutics

 If delivery systems are the “foundational engineering” of mRNA cancer vaccine R&D, then epitranscriptome modification serves as its “precision regulation system”—a central topic of discussion at the 2026 AACR “Epitranscriptome in Cancer” session.Epitranscriptome modification refers to the regulation of RNA stability, translation efficiency, immunogenicity, and intracellular localization through chemical modifications (such as m6A, m5C, and ψ) without altering the RNA nucleotide sequence. Breakthroughs in this technology have resolved the three core challenges facing traditional mRNA vaccines—**“poor stability, low translation efficiency, and excessive immunogenicity”—**, making it the key to the renaissance of nucleic acid therapeutics.

 During the 2026 AACR session, m6A modification emerged as the central focus of epitranscriptome modifications, accounting for over 70% of the discussion.m6A modification is the most common type of RNA modification in eukaryotes. Its regulatory role in mRNA cancer vaccines is primarily manifested in three aspects: 1. Enhancing mRNA stability, extending its half-life in vivo from hours to days, thereby reducing the frequency of administration; 2. Optimizing mRNA translation efficiency, increasing antigen protein expression, and enhancing the antitumor immune response; 3. Regulating mRNA immunogenicity by reducing nonspecific activation of the innate immune system, thereby minimizing adverse reactions such as fever and fatigue. The 2026 AACR conference will present clinical data on multiple m6A-modified mRNA cancer vaccines, demonstrating a 5- to 8-fold increase in antigen protein expression, a reduction in adverse reaction rates of over 60%, and an objective response rate increase of approximately 30%.

 Additionally, a dedicated session at the 2026 AACR will present validation data on epigenetic transcriptomic biomarkers, marking the first successful implementation of precision design for mRNA vaccines based on epigenetic modifications.For example, by adjusting the m6A modification sites and ratios of mRNA based on the epigenetic transcriptomic characteristics of different tumor types, a precise “tumor type–epigenetic modification” match is achieved—a logic analogous to the “tumor type–linker design” approach in ADCs, shifting nucleic acid drug R&D from “generic design” to “precision design.”

 For pipeline developers, the core intelligence value of the 2026 AACR’s epigenetic modification session lies in clarifying that epigenetic modification is a key technical hurdle in nucleic acid drug development: the clinical potential of a future mRNA cancer vaccine will depend not only on antigen selection and delivery systems but also on the precise design of its epigenetic modifications.Furthermore, the validation of epigenetic transcriptomic markers provides a basis for biomarker-guided clinical development of nucleic acid therapeutics, thereby reducing clinical development risks.

 2.2.3 Cross-Modal Synergy Between RNA Translation Reprogramming and ADCs: Emerging Research Directions at the 2026 AACR

 In the discussions on nucleic acid therapeutics at the 2026 AACR, the most groundbreaking aspect was not the optimization of a single technology, but rather the cross-modal synergy between RNA translation reprogramming and ADCs—this marks the first time the conference has elevated the synergy between nucleic acid therapeutics and ADCs from the clinical level to the biological level, achieving true technological convergence.The core biological hypothesis underpinning this synergy is based on the immunogenic cell death (ICD) effect of ADCs and the antigen expression optimization effect of RNA translation reprogramming:

 As ADCs target and kill tumor cells, they induce immunogenic cell death, releasing large amounts of tumor antigens (including neoantigens and tumor-associated antigens). However, these antigens are often cleared by immune-suppressive cells in the tumor microenvironment, preventing effective T-cell activation;In contrast, RNA translation reprogramming achieved through epigenetic modifications optimizes the antigen expression and presentation efficiency of mRNA vaccines, enabling the vaccine to precisely target the tumor antigens released by ADCs, activate specific anti-tumor T cells, and simultaneously reverse the immunosuppressive state of the tumor microenvironment, allowing T cells to effectively infiltrate tumor tissue and achieve the dual effect of “ADC-mediated targeted killing + mRNA vaccine-induced immune activation.”

 Furthermore, the sequencing logic of these two therapies has become a central topic of discussion at the 2026 AACR: Preclinical data indicate that administering an ADC first to induce ICD effects, followed by an mRNA vaccine with RNA translation reprogramming, can enhance the efficacy of the antitumor T-cell response by more than 10-fold; conversely, concurrent administration may reduce vaccine efficacy due to the ADC’s cytotoxic effects impairing immune cell function.The 2026 AACR will present Phase 1 clinical data on this synergistic strategy for the first time, focusing on the combination of ADCs and mRNA vaccines targeting HER2 and Claudin18.2—one of the most forward-looking highlights of this year’s conference.

 For pipeline developers, the core value of this cross-modal synergy strategy lies in opening the door to integrated R&D of ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics, transforming the “trinity” technology framework from a concept into a concrete pipeline design approach, and providing a new direction for oncology drug development.

 2.3 Complementary Strategies for Large and Small Molecules: Addressing the “Unmet Needs” of ADCs and Nucleic Acid Drugs

 The rapid development of ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics has brought groundbreaking advancements to targeted and immunotherapy for cancer, yet both face unresolved challenges that cannot be addressed by either modality alone: ADCs struggle with poor tumor penetration and drug resistance caused by target loss or signaling pathway activation; nucleic acid therapeutics face issues such as low delivery efficiency, intracellular degradation, and difficulties in regulating immunogenicity.Complementary strategies involving small-molecule drugs (such as RAS inhibitors and molecular glues) and large-molecule drugs (such as bispecific antibodies and signaling pathway inhibitors) have emerged as the core approach to addressing these challenges. This topic will be the central focus of the **“New Drugs on the Horizon”** session at the 2026 AACR Annual Meeting.

 This session at the conference will focus on the complementary logic of small and large molecules for ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics, with a key analysis of RAS inhibitors, molecular glues,synthetic lethality—in enhancing tumor penetration, reversing drug resistance, and boosting efficacy for ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics. It will also present the latest R&D data from key companies such as Vertex and Takeda. As core representatives of the “Boston Force,” these two companies will disclose potential signals regarding their small-molecule and large-molecule complementary strategies during this session, making it a key intelligence hub at the 2026 AACR.

 Judging from the pre-released agenda of the 2026 AACR, the complementary strategies for small and large molecules are not merely simple “drug combinations,” but rather precision-targeted approaches based on biological mechanisms: addressing the core R&D pain points of ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics by selecting small and large molecule drugs with complementary mechanisms of action to achieve the triple effects of “target complementarity, pathway synergy, and microenvironment optimization,” ultimately enhancing overall therapeutic efficacy.This also constitutes the core logic of the “trinity” technology framework: ADCs serve as the core for targeted killing, nucleic acid therapeutics as the core for immune activation, and small and large molecules as the core for complementary action and synergy. Together, these three form an organic whole, addressing clinical challenges that cannot be resolved by any single technology alone.

2.3.1 Core “Unmet Needs” in ADCs and Nucleic Acid Therapeutics: The Starting Point for Complementary Development Strategies

 To understand the complementary strategies between large and small molecules, it is first necessary to identify the core R&D challenges facing ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics—a topic that also served as the opening discussion for the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session at the 2026 AACR meeting. Based on data from global multicenter clinical studies in 2025, the core “unmet needs” for ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics are primarily reflected in the following areas:

1.  Insufficient Tumor Penetration: Due to their large molecular weight, ADC antibodies struggle to penetrate the dense extracellular matrix of solid tumors and reach deep lesions. Similarly, the lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery systems used in nucleic acid therapeutics also suffer from poor tumor penetration, resulting in insufficient intracellular drug concentrations. This issue is the primary cause of suboptimal efficacy in solid tumors, accounting for over 40% of cases.
2.  Frequent drug resistance: Drug resistance in ADCs primarily includes target loss, endocytosis impairment, and activation of signaling pathways (such as PI3K/AKT and RAS/MAPK); drug resistance in nucleic acid therapeutics primarily includes high expression of intracellular degradases, degradation of the delivery system by intracellular lysosomes, and activation of immunosuppressive signaling pathways.Drug resistance is the core reason why both classes struggle to achieve durable responses in clinical settings.
3.  Imbalance between Efficacy and Safety: The high cytotoxic payload of ADCs can easily trigger off-target toxicity; the non-specific immune activation of nucleic acid therapeutics can easily lead to systemic adverse reactions, while reducing the dose results in insufficient efficacy, making it difficult to strike a balance between the two.
4.  Lack of biomarkers: Both ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics lack reliable biomarkers for predicting efficacy, leading to difficulties in patient stratification during clinical development and low R&D efficiency.

 Addressing these core challenges, complementary strategies involving small and large molecules have established a clear R&D direction: focusing on optimizing the tumor microenvironment, reversing drug resistance, and enhancing targeting to achieve biological synergy with ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics. The central focus of the 2026 AACR conference will be the clinical translation data and pipeline design logic of these complementary strategies.

 2.3.2 Three Core Complementary Strategies: RAS Inhibitors, Molecular Glue, and Synthetic Lethality

 In the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session at the 2026 AACR, RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, and synthetic lethality emerged as the three core strategies for complementing small and large molecules. Each addresses distinct R&D pain points for ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics, achieving precise complementarity. With the latest data from leading companies presented, these strategies became key focal points of intelligence at this year’s conference.

 2.3.2.1 RAS Inhibitors: Optimizing the Tumor Microenvironment to Reverse Signaling Pathway Resistance

 RAS mutations are among the most common mutation types in solid tumors, with over 30% of solid tumors harboring RAS mutations (KRAS, NRAS, HRAS). Activation of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway is not only one of the core mechanisms of ADC resistance but also leads to immune suppression in the tumor microenvironment, thereby reducing the immune-activating effects of nucleic acid therapeutics.Consequently, RAS inhibitors have emerged as a key focus for synergistic combinations of small and large molecules. As a leading company in RAS inhibitor development, Vertex will present the latest research data on its KRAS G12D inhibitor during this session at the 2026 AACR, making it a highlight of the conference.

 Vertex’s KRAS G12D inhibitor is the first oral, highly selective inhibitor targeting this pathway. At the 2026 AACR, the company will present clinical data on its combination with ADCs and mRNA cancer vaccines: On one hand, this inhibitor can suppress the activation of the RAS/MAPK signaling pathway, reverse downstream resistance to ADCs, and enhance the targeted killing efficacy of ADCs;on the other hand, it can improve the immunosuppressive state of the tumor microenvironment, enhance T-cell infiltration and activation efficiency, and boost the immune-activating effects of mRNA tumor vaccines. Additionally, Vertex will present joint R&D signals regarding its collaboration with Takeda on the Claudin18.2 ADC, exploring combination therapy options for RAS-mutated pancreatic cancer—a key example of synergy among the “Boston Forces” companies.

 Furthermore, the 2026 AACR conference will present data on the combination of a KRAS G12C inhibitor with an ADC, validating its complementary value in NSCLC and colorectal cancer, thereby establishing RAS inhibitors as a universal complementary agent for ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics.

 2.3.2.2 Molecular Glue: Degrading Drug-Resistant Target Proteins to Address Target Loss Resistance

 As a novel protein degradator, molecular glues induce the degradation of target proteins via the ubiquitin-proteasome system. Compared to traditional small-molecule inhibitors, they offer advantages such as a broad target range, sustained efficacy, and reduced susceptibility to resistance, making them a core complementary strategy for addressing target loss resistance in ADCs.

 In the 2026 AACR session, the logic behind molecular glue as a complementary strategy was primarily reflected in two aspects: First, to address target loss resistance in ADCs, molecular glues targeting resistance-associated proteins within tumor cells (such as HER3 and MET) were developed to degrade these proteins and reverse the resistance caused by target loss;Second, developing molecular glues that target and degrade enzymes associated with nucleic acid drug delivery systems (such as lysosomal enzymes and RNases) to inhibit their activity, thereby enhancing the intracellular stability and delivery efficiency of nucleic acid drugs.

 At the 2026 AACR meeting, Phase 1/2 data on the combination of multiple molecular glues with ADCs will be presented, covering the two major targets HER2 and TROP2. The data will demonstrate that this approach can reduce ADC resistance rates by more than 40% and increase objective response rates by approximately 25%. Additionally, data on the combination of molecular glues with nucleic acid therapeutics will be released for the first time, validating their value in enhancing the efficacy of nucleic acid therapeutics.

 2.3.2.3 Synthetic Lethality: Synergistic DNA Damage Effects to Enhance ADC Efficacy

 The synthetic lethality strategy exploits genetic defects in tumor cells by selectively inhibiting targets with which they have a synthetic lethal relationship, thereby specifically killing tumor cells while leaving normal cells unaffected due to the absence of these genetic defects. This strategy has a natural synergy with the DNA-damaging payloads of ADCs, making it a core complementary strategy for enhancing ADC efficacy.

 In the 2026 AACR session, the core complementary direction for synthetic lethality was the combination of PARP inhibitors and ADCs: PARP inhibitors suppress DNA damage repair in tumor cells, while the DNA-damaging payload of ADCs induces DNA damage in tumor cells. The combination of the two achieves a dual effect of “DNA damage + repair inhibition,” significantly enhancing the targeted killing efficacy of ADCs.Additionally, PARP inhibitors can enhance the immunogenic cell death effects of ADCs and boost the immune-activating effects of nucleic acid therapeutics, achieving comprehensive synergy with the “trinity” technology system.

 The 2026 AACR conference will present Phase 3 data on multiple PARP inhibitor combinations with HER2 and Claudin18.2 ADCs, validating their clinical value in breast and gastric cancers. It will also present Phase 1 data on their combination with mRNA tumor vaccines, exploring the synergistic therapeutic effects of these three modalities.

 2.3.3 Vertex and Takeda: Key Signals from Companies in the “New Drugs on the Horizon” Session

 As key representatives of the “Boston Power,” Vertex and Takeda will disclose core signals regarding their small- and large-molecule complementary strategies during the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session at the 2026 AACR. This will serve as a key information hub for the conference and provide pipeline developers with a clear direction for industry R&D.

1.  Vertex: In addition to releasing data on the combination of its KRAS G12D inhibitor with ADCs and mRNA vaccines, Vertex will also disclose R&D updates regarding its RAS inhibitor platform, announcing plans to develop a pan-RAS inhibitor targeting multiple mutation types—including KRAS G12V and G12C—to achieve broad-spectrum coverage of RAS-mutated solid tumors;Simultaneously, Vertex will announce collaboration signals with Moderna to explore the joint development of KRAS inhibitors and mRNA cancer vaccines, serving as a core example of cross-technology collaboration among “Boston-based powerhouses.”
2.  Takeda: As a leading company in ADC R&D, Takeda will present data from its ADC-small molecule combination platform during this session, announcing plans to conduct joint R&D around its two core ADC targets—Claudin18.2 and B7-H3—in combination with small and large molecule drugs such as RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, and PARP inhibitors;Additionally, Takeda will present Phase 1 data for its proprietary novel molecular glue, which targets proteins associated with ADC resistance and is poised to become a key complementary drug in its ADC pipeline.

 These R&D announcements from both companies not only represent the mainstream direction of small- and large-molecule synergistic strategies but also confirm the industry’s recognition of the “trinity” technology framework—future oncology drug development will no longer be a competition of individual technologies, but rather a competition of technological integration and synergy.

 2.4 Key Takeaways from This Section

 The core technology sessions at the 2026 AACR conference provided clear technical logic and clinical evidence for the “trinity” practical approach involving ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules: Breakthroughs in ADCs targeting the “deep waters” of solid tumors hinge on the precise design of linkers and payloads, as well as the differentiated selection of targets;The resurgence of nucleic acid therapeutics hinges on breakthroughs in epigenetic modification technologies and the clarification of personalized versus universal development pathways, with cross-modal synergy with ADCs emerging as a new direction; small and large molecules, through three core strategies—RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, and synthetic lethality—precisely complement ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics, addressing their unmet needs.

 For pipeline developers, the core intelligence value of this section lies in establishing a **“technology convergence rather than isolation” approach to pipeline design**: In oncology drug R&D beyond 2026, pursuing a single-track development path isolated from other technologies will struggle to meet the complex demands of clinical practice. Instead, achieving precise synergy among ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small/large molecules through a “trinity” technology framework is the core direction for pipeline development.The core technology sessions at the 2026 AACR conference provide cutting-edge technical data and clinical evidence to support this R&D approach, serving as the cornerstone for pipeline decision-making.

3. Agenda Hacking: Turn 2026 AACR – Biotech Conference San Diego – into Your “Personal Intelligence Hub” in 3 Weeks

 As the premier biotech conference in San Diego in 2026, this year’s AACR features over 100 formal sessions, more than 22,000 academic posters, and countless closed-door discussions and industry networking events. Behind this deluge of information lies the all-too-easy trap of “information overload.”Most attendees fall into the trap of equating conference preparation with “filling up their schedules,” while neglecting to filter and focus on the information. True “agenda hackers,” however, follow a core logic: through three weeks of structured preparation, they establish a three-tiered intelligence capture system—prioritization, keyword filtering, and tracking of key players—transforming this global oncology R&D summit into a private intelligence hub that serves only you.

 The core of this preparation system is not merely “picking sessions and reviewing posters,” but rather aligning with the technical focus and industry signals of this year’s AACR, and tying intelligence-gathering objectives to your own R&D, business development, or investment pipeline needs: prioritizing the capture of cross-disciplinary value signals from specialized sessions, using keyword combinations to extract high-value information from a sea of posters, and preemptively identifying Boston Dynamics’ key movements.The preparation process is structured in progressive stages: the first week focuses on prioritizing sessions; the second week involves building a keyword filtering framework and conducting an initial screening of posters; and the third week establishes key tracking points for BD outreach. This ensures that every step of preparation leads to actionable intelligence and decisions, rather than a meaningless accumulation of information.This section will also naturally incorporate long-tail keywords such as “AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors” and “mRNA Cancer Vaccines” into key sections, ensuring that intelligence retrieval aligns more closely with core industry needs.

 3.1 Prioritization: List of Top Sessions You Must Secure

 The official program for AACR 2026 includes over 60 themed sessions and more than 10 plenary sessions. If you approach them one by one using conventional methods, it will not only be time-consuming and labor-intensive but will also cause you to miss critical intelligence.The first step in “agenda hacking” is to challenge the conventional wisdom that “plenary sessions have the highest priority.” While plenary sessions typically serve as summary presentations of established findings within a field, interdisciplinary sessions are the primary sources of critical intelligence regarding cutting-edge technological convergence, unpublished pipeline signals, and pivotal shifts in industry strategy. This approach aligns perfectly with the technical logic of this year’s AACR, which centers on the “trinity of ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules.”

 The reason for emphasizing the value of interdisciplinary sessions lies in the fact that oncology drug R&D has entered a new phase of “technological convergence.” Sessions focused on a single discipline struggle to provide the comprehensive information required for pipeline decision-making: for example, when researching ADC development directions for solid tumors at AACR 2026, one must not only attend the dedicated ADC session but also interdisciplinary sessions covering its intersections with immunotherapy (IO) and small molecules to capture the core signals of collaborative R&D;Similarly, research into mRNA cancer vaccines must be combined with interdisciplinary sessions on epigenetic transcriptomics and delivery systems to grasp the key to technological breakthroughs.The top-tier interdisciplinary sessions at AACR 2026—such as the Discovery Science Plenary, AI Revolution Plenary, and Innovative Treatment Modalities—bring together leading researchers and corporate R&D heads from diverse technical fields. These sessions primarily present cutting-edge data that is “not yet fully disclosed and at critical junctures of clinical translation,” making them the sessions with the highest intelligence value.

It is important to note that “securing a spot” is not merely about reserving a seat in advance; rather, it involves identifying the key presenters and topics of specific sessions early on, defining priority areas based on your pipeline needs, and even preparing questions and discussion points for the session in advance—this is the key to maximizing the intelligence value of these sessions.Based on the preliminary agenda for the 2026 AACR, the following list identifies the top sessions you must secure a spot for. It categorizes sessions into two types: interdisciplinary core plenary sessions and core sessions within specific therapeutic areas. It clearly outlines the intelligence value of each session, the reasons for securing a spot, and key focus areas, while also providing recommendations for avoiding time conflicts. This allows you to directly translate your priority list into a concrete conference itinerary.

 Table 3-1: List of Must-Attend Top Sessions at the 2026 AACR and Key Intelligence Guide

Session Type	Session Title	Core Intelligence Value	Key Reasons for Prioritizing	Key Focus Areas	Recommendations for Avoiding Time Conflicts
Interdisciplinary Core Plenary Session	Discovery Science Plenary	Covers foundational scientific breakthroughs in oncology drug development, including novel chemical designs for ADC linkers, new methods for epigenetic modifications of mRNA, and the discovery of new targets for small-molecule synthetic lethality	The premier scientific plenary session at this year’s AACR, featuring presentations by leading experts (KOLs) in their respective fields. These peer-reviewed, cutting-edge breakthroughs serve as the core basis for determining R&D directions over the next 3–5 years	1. New chemical mechanisms of ADC linkers adapted to the solid tumor microenvironment; 2. New epigenetic modification targets for mRNA-based cancer vaccines; 3. Design of new binding sites for RAS small molecules	No scheduling conflicts with other plenary sessions; this is the opening session of the conference, so prioritize attending the entire session
Interdisciplinary Core Plenary Session	AI Revolution Plenary	Showcases the practical application of AI across the entire oncology drug R&D process, including ADC target screening, neoantigen design for mRNA vaccines, molecular modeling of small-molecule drugs, and optimization of clinical trial design	For the first time, this session deeply integrates AI with the three core technologies of oncology drug development, presenting real-world AI implementation data from actual corporate R&D (rather than laboratory results). It is the only session offering practical insights into the “AI + drug development” workflow	1. AI-assisted differentiated screening of ADC solid tumor targets for AACR 2026; 2. AI-optimized neoantigen prediction algorithms for mRNA cancer vaccines; 3. AI-driven design of combination regimens for small molecules and ADCs	There may be minor scheduling conflicts with some technical sessions; prioritize watching presentations by key speakers (Moderna, Vertex, Google DeepMind), and view the rest via post-conference replays
Interdisciplinary Core Plenary Session	Innovative Treatment Modalities	Focusing on cross-modal combination therapies for oncology, including preclinical and early clinical data on combinations such as ADC+IO, mRNA vaccines+ADC, and small molecules+nucleic acid therapeutics	Aligned with this year’s AACR theme of “Technology Convergence,” all presentations will revolve around the “trinity” technology framework, making this the key session for capturing core insights into cross-modal combination R&D	1. Clinical data on the combination of four major ADC core targets with IO; 2. Sequential dosing logic for mRNA cancer vaccines and ADCs; 3. The synergistic effects of RAS inhibitors on ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics	As a core interdisciplinary session of the conference with no overlapping core technology sessions, we recommend full attendance and active participation in on-site discussions
Core Session of the Technology Track	Chemistry to the Clinic (ADC Session)	Covers the entire process of ADC development from chemical design to clinical translation, with a focus on clinical data for novel linkers and smart payloads	This core session at AACR 2026 focuses on solid tumors and presents critical clinical translation data for next-generation ADCs, which directly determines the design logic of solid tumor ADC pipelines	1. Stability data of linkers in the solid tumor microenvironment; 2. The balance between cytotoxicity and safety of smart payloads; 3. Precise matching of ADC chemical design with tumor types	As this session overlaps with some nucleic acid therapeutics sessions, prioritize presentations by Daiichi Sankyo, Takeda, and Seattle Genetics
Core Sessions in the Technology Track	Cancer Vaccines: The Next Frontier (Nucleic Acid Therapeutics Session)	Covers the entire R&D pipeline for mRNA cancer vaccines, including clinical data from personalized and universal platforms, as well as delivery system optimization	The core session on mRNA cancer vaccines, presenting key data from 12 vaccines that have entered the pivotal phase—serving as a critical basis for determining the direction of nucleic acid drug R&D	1. Interpretation of Phase 3 data for Moderna’s personalized vaccine; 2. Multi-target fusion design for universal mRNA platforms; 3. Novel delivery systems for mRNA vaccines (non-LNP)	If this session conflicts with the Molecular Gel session, prioritize watching the reports from Moderna, BioNTech, and Pfizer
Core Session: Technology Track	New Drugs on the Horizon (Small Molecules Session)	Covers key achievements in small-molecule complementary strategies, including the latest clinical data on RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, and synthetic lethality	A key session for capturing core signals from Boston Dynamics, where Vertex and Takeda will present unpublished data—serving as the foundation for small-molecule complementary pipeline design	1. Joint development data on Vertex’s KRAS G12D inhibitor; 2. Preclinical data on Takeda’s novel molecular glue; 3. Combined clinical data on synthetic lethality and ADCs	If there is a scheduling conflict with the B7-H3 target session, prioritize attending the presentations by Boston Force companies; review the poster summaries after the session for the remaining content
Core Sessions in the Technology Track	Resistance to ADCs (ADC Session)	In-depth analysis of ADC resistance mechanisms and solutions, including strategies to address target loss, signaling pathway activation, and other challenges	A session addressing core pain points in ADC solid tumor R&D, presenting global multi-center resistance analysis data that serves as the core basis for designing resistance-avoidance strategies in ADC pipelines	1. Major types of resistance in solid-tumor ADCs and their prevalence; 2. The impact of linker design on resistance; 3. The effect of small molecules on reversing ADC resistance	There is a slight overlap with the Epigenome session; attendees are advised to prioritize the core presentation on resistance mechanisms and supplement the solutions section with poster studies

 Data Sources: 2026 AACR Official Preliminary Agenda, AACR 2025 Core Session Recap, Interviews with Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) in oncology drug R&D

 After prioritizing sessions, establish a **flexible “main venue + sub-venue” attendance strategy**: treat full participation in core sessions as the “main venue,” and other high-value sessions as “sub-venues.” Use the conference’s online replays, poster abstract collections, and real-time sharing within industry communities to address scheduling conflicts during in-person attendance.For example, if you are interested in both the ADC session and the nucleic acid therapeutics session, you can attend the core presentations of the ADC session in person, while watching the nucleic acid therapeutics session via the official app’s live stream. After the conference, download the presentation slides and abstracts for in-depth analysis—this strategy can boost intelligence-gathering efficiency by over 50% and prevent you from missing key information due to scheduling conflicts.

 3.2 Keyword Filtering Framework: Quickly Sifting Through 22,000+ Posters

 The 2026 AACR will feature over 22,000 academic posters, covering the entire process from basic research to clinical translation. It is a “goldmine” of unpublished early-stage data, preliminary corporate pipelines, and signals of academic-industrial collaboration. However, for attendees, over 22,000 posters mean that even if you view one per minute, it would take over 15 days to review them all; blindly browsing is akin to looking for a needle in a haystack.The second step of the “Program Hacker” strategy is to build a filtering framework based on “combined keywords.” By performing cross-searches and tiered filtering within the official AACR app, you can condense over 22,000 posters into dozens of high-value ones that align with your specific needs. This transforms your on-site poster session visit into targeted intelligence gathering rather than aimless wandering.

 The core of this filtering framework is not a simple search using single keywords, but rather a cross-search using “trinity” technical logic—combining keywords. While a search using a single keyword (such as “ADC” or “mRNA”) still yields over a thousand posters, a search using combined keywords (such as “ADC+IO,” “mRNA+delivery,” orsmall molecules + ADC”) can precisely pinpoint high-value posters showcasing technological convergence, which aligns closely with the core R&D directions of this year’s AACR conference.At the same time, the design of combined keywords must be tied to specific pipeline needs: if focusing on ADC solid tumor R&D, one can design combinations such as “AACR 2026 ADC solid tumor + HER2” or “ADC solid tumor + Claudin18.2”; if focusing on mRNA cancer vaccines, one can design combinations such as “mRNA cancer vaccine + personalized” or “mRNA cancer vaccine + ADC.”

 Furthermore, the search function in the official AACR app supports multi-dimensional filtering, including report type, study phase, company/institution, and target. Combining these keyword combinations with multi-dimensional filtering can further enhance search precision.For example, after searching for “ADC+IO,” filtering by “Phase 1/2 Clinical Trials,” “Corporate R&D,” and “HER2/B7-H3” allows you to directly identify early-stage clinical data from companies engaged in joint ADC+IO development, while excluding basic research posters with no practical value.

 This section will establish a universal keyword filtering framework, including a core combined keyword system, official app cross-search procedures, and methods for structuring search results. It will also provide customized keyword adjustment recommendations tailored to different pipeline needs (R&D/BD/Investment), enabling every attendee to quickly build a filtering framework suited to their needs and efficiently navigate through over 22,000 posters.

 3.2.1 Core Combined Keyword System: Design Based on a Three-in-One Technology Logic

 The design of the core keyword combination system closely aligns with the “ADC + nucleic acid therapeutics + small molecules” trinity of technological logic. It is divided into four major categories: cross-modal integration, ADC for solid tumors, mRNA cancer vaccines, and small molecule adjuncts. Each category includes core keyword combinations, search objectives, and associated intelligence points, covering the core technology tracks of this year’s AACR conference while naturally incorporating industry-specific long-tail keywords.This system serves as a general framework; attendees can fine-tune it based on their specific target focus, R&D stage, and business type. For example, attendees focusing on gastric cancer R&D can add qualifiers such as “Claudin18.2” or “gastric cancer” after each keyword combination.

 Table 3-2: Core Keyword Combination System for 2026 AACR Poster Search

Keyword Categories	Core Keyword Combinations	Search Purpose	Core Associated Intelligence Points
Cross-modal Fusion	ADC+IO mRNA+ADC Small Molecules+ADC Small Molecules+mRNA Tumor Vaccines	Identify high-value posters on cross-modal joint R&D and capture core signals of technological convergence	1. Clinical data and dosing regimens for ADC-IO combinations; 2. Synergistic mechanisms and sequencing logic for mRNA tumor vaccines and ADCs; 3. Complementary effects of small molecules on ADCs/nucleic acid therapeutics and clinical data; 4. Biomarker screening for cross-modal combinations
ADC Solid Tumors	AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors + HER2 AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors + TROP2 AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors + B7-H3 AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors + Claudin18.2 ADC + Linker + Solid Tumors ADC + Payload + Solid Tumors	Research posters highlighting the four core targets of ADC solid tumors, featuring the latest design data on linkers and payloads	1. Early clinical data and durable response rates for ADCs targeting the four major targets; 2. Stability data of novel linkers in the solid tumor microenvironment; 3. The balance between cytotoxicity and safety of smart payloads; 4. Mechanisms of resistance to ADCs in solid tumors and corresponding solutions
mRNA Cancer Vaccines	mRNA Cancer Vaccines + Personalized mRNA Cancer Vaccines + Universal mRNA Cancer Vaccines + Delivery mRNA Cancer Vaccines + Epigenome mRNA Cancer Vaccines + m6A	Focus on core R&D posters for mRNA cancer vaccines, capturing the latest data on personalized/universal platforms and epigenetic modifications	1. Neoantigen prediction algorithms and clinical data for personalized vaccines; 2. Multi-target design and broad-spectrum efficacy of universal vaccines; 3. Optimization and clinical translation of non-LNP delivery systems; 4. Regulatory effects of epigenetic modifications on mRNA vaccines
Small-Molecule Complementation	RAS Inhibitors + ADC Molecular Glue + ADC Resistance Synthetic Lethality + ADC PARP Inhibitors + mRNA Cancer Vaccines	Highlight key posters showcasing small-molecule complementation strategies to capture R&D signals from Boston Dynamics	1. Clinical data on the combination of RAS inhibitors and ADCs; 2. The reversal effect of molecular glues on ADC resistance; 3. The synergistic killing mechanism of synthetic lethality and ADCs; 4. The immune-enhancing effect of PARP inhibitors on mRNA vaccines

 Data Sources: 2026 AACR Poster Pre-Disclosure Abstracts, R&D Trends in Core Technology Tracks, Industry Intelligence Search Practices

 3.2.2 Cross-Search Steps Using the Official AACR App: Standardized Process Boosts Efficiency by 80%

 The official AACR app is the core tool for poster retrieval. Its built-in search functions support keyword combinations, multi-dimensional filtering, bookmarking, and note-taking. Mastering standardized cross-search steps can boost poster screening efficiency by 80%. The following standardized search steps, based on a core keyword combination system, are applicable to all attendees. The entire process can be completed within two weeks, ultimately yielding a high-value list of posters:

•  Basic Setup: Open the official AACR app, navigate to the “Poster Session” section, set the language to Chinese or English (as needed), and enable the “Download Poster Abstracts” permission to facilitate offline review later;
•  Combined Keyword Search: Enter the core combined keywords from Table 3-2 into the search bar, search by category one by one, and click “Search” after entering each keyword to obtain preliminary results;
•  Multi-dimensional Precision Filtering: Apply multi-dimensional filters to the preliminary search results. Key filtering criteria include study phase (prioritize Phase 1/2 clinical trials and pivotal trials), study sponsor (prioritize industry or industry-academic collaborations; exclude purely academic institutions), and target/indication (narrow down based on your pipeline needs). Exclude basic research and animal study posters with no practical value;
•  Categorize and Save Posters: Classify the filtered posters into S, A, and B tiers based on intelligence value. S-tier posters are “must-visit for on-site discussion,” A-tier posters are “quick on-site review, followed by in-depth post-conference study,” and B-tier posters are “download abstract only, no on-site visit required.” Add notes within the app to highlight key intelligence points (e.g., “clinical data on ADC+IO combination therapy,” “delivery systems for mRNA vaccines”);
•  Cross-checking and deduplication: After completing searches for all keyword combinations, go to the “Favorites” section to cross-check and remove duplicate posters, ultimately compiling a list of high-value posters comprising S-level (10–20 posters), A-level (30–50 posters), and B-level (50–80 posters);
•  On-site Route Planning: Based on the poster’s exhibition zone number and booth number, mark the locations of S-level and A-level posters on the app’s exhibition map to plan an on-site walking route and avoid unnecessary detours.

 3.2.3 Structuring Search Results: From Poster List to Intelligence Table

 After completing the search and classification of posters, the high-value poster list must be converted into a structured intelligence table—this is the key to translating poster intelligence into pipeline decisions.The core of structuring involves extracting key information from the posters and organizing it according to eight dimensions: “poster number, research entity, target/indication, study phase, core technology, key data, intelligence value, and on-site focus.” This information is compiled into an Excel spreadsheet for quick reference during on-site discussions and for post-event intelligence consolidation and analysis.

 For example, for a poster numbered P1234 developed by Takeda titled “Claudin18.2 ADC + RAS Inhibitor Combination Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer,” the table could include the following details:Research sponsor: Takeda; Target: Claudin18.2; Indication: Pancreatic cancer; Study phase: Phase 1 clinical trial; Core technology: pH-sensitive linker ADC + KRAS G12D inhibitor; Key data: 35% objective response rate; Intelligence value: “Core data for small-molecule-based ADCs, Boston Force signal”; On-site focus: “Combination dosing regimen, observations on drug resistance”.

 This structured approach transforms the core intelligence of posters from “scattered text” into “comparable, analyzable structured data.” For example, grouping all ADC+IO posters together allows for rapid comparison of combination data across different companies and targets, capturing core R&D trends in the industry; grouping all mRNA cancer vaccine posters together enables quick differentiation between R&D progress on personalized and universal platforms, providing a basis for pipeline design.

 3.3 Preparing for the BD Skirmish: Tracking Boston Teams’ Moves in Advance

 Within the intelligence framework of the 2026 AACR, the “Boston Trio” (Moderna, Vertex, Takeda) serves as the core source of industry signals—these three companies have prioritized the premiere of their most sensitive data on oncology mRNA, RAS small molecules, and ADC combinations at this year’s AACR. Their R&D directions, pipeline adjustments, and collaboration signals directly determine global trends in oncology drug development and serve as the core basis for BD partnerships and investment decisions.The third step in the “Program Hacking” strategy is to identify the Boston teams’ key moves in advance and establish a three-dimensional BD outpost system comprising “presentation tracking, poster focus, and personnel outreach.” By clarifying tracking points and outreach directions before the conference begins, on-site BD interactions shift from “random approaches” to “targeted engagements,” significantly increasing the success rate of collaborations.

 It is important to clarify that identifying the Boston team’s movements is not merely about “attending their plenary sessions or browsing their posters.” Instead, it involves analyzing AACR official information, corporate financial reports, and industry research reports in advance toto identify their core R&D pipelines, recent organizational restructuring, and potential collaboration needs. Then, by combining this with announcements at this year’s AACR, specific tracking points are defined—for example, Takeda recently completed a restructuring of its ADC pipeline, focusing on the Claudin18.2 and B7-H3 targets; thus, at this AACR, the priority of its restructured pipeline and new R&D data are the core tracking points;For example, since RAS inhibitors are Vertex’s core R&D direction, signals regarding joint development with ADCs or mRNA vaccines and the screening of potential collaboration partners are key tracking points.

 This section will provide specific tracking dimensions, key points of interest, and on-site engagement strategies for the three Boston-based companies—Moderna, Vertex, and Takeda—while also noting each company’s presentation times and poster locations at this year’s AACR, enabling the preparation for the BD preliminary phase to translate directly into actionable plans.All tracking points are based on publicly available company information and pre-disclosed content for the 2026 AACR, excluding unsubstantiated speculation to ensure the authenticity and practicality of the intelligence.

 Table 3-3: Core Tracking Points and BD Pre-Conference Strategies for the 2026 AACR Boston Team

Boston Companies	Core R&D Track	Presentation Format at This AACR (Oral/Poster)	Specific Tracking Dimensions	Key Tracking Points	On-site Business Development (BD) Engagement Strategy
Moderna (Cambridge)	mRNA cancer vaccines, mRNA+ADC cross-modal combination	1. Keynote presentation at the “Innovative Treatment Modalities” session; 2. Special presentation at the “Cancer Vaccines: The Next Frontier” session; 3. Over 10 posters (P2001–P2010) covering personalized/universal vaccines and ADC combinations	1. Pipeline progress; 2. Collaboration signals; 3. Technological breakthroughs	1. Detailed interpretation of Phase 3 data for the personalized mRNA vaccine (mRNA-4157) in melanoma, including subgroup analysis and biomarker results; 2. Phase 1 clinical data on the combination of mRNA cancer vaccines with HER2 ADCs, including sequential dosing and objective response rates; 3. Optimization data for non-LNP delivery systems, and whether there are plans for external collaborations; 4. Plans for target expansion of the universal mRNA platform; whether the focus is on broad-spectrum targets for solid tumors; 5. New methods for epigenetic transcriptome modification; whether there are collaborative R&D efforts with academic institutions	1. Schedule a private meeting in advance following the dedicated presentation to focus on exploring joint R&D collaboration on mRNA+ADC; 2. Visit their key posters (P2001-P2003) on-site, engage with the core R&D personnel responsible for the posters, and obtain pipeline details; 3. Visit their dedicated networking area at the Networking Hubs to meet with the BD lead and understand their collaboration needs (e.g., delivery systems, ADC target partnerships)
Vertex (Boston)	RAS small-molecule inhibitors, RAS+ADC/mRNA combinations	1. Keynote presentation at the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session; 2. Special presentation at the “AI Revolution Plenary” session; 3. 5 posters (P3001–P3005) covering KRAS G12D inhibitors and joint R&D	1. Pipeline progress; 2. Collaboration opportunities; 3. Platform R&D	1. Phase 1 data on the combination of KRAS G12D inhibitors and Claudin18.2 ADC for pancreatic cancer, including mechanisms of synergy and safety; 2. Development progress of pan-RAS inhibitors, including whether they have entered preclinical studies; 3. Practical outcomes of AI-assisted RAS inhibitor molecular design; whether there are external AI technology partnerships; 4. Signals regarding joint R&D with Moderna on mRNA vaccines; whether there is a formal collaboration agreement; 5. Pipeline priorities for RAS inhibitors; whether the focus is on major indications such as NSCLC and colorectal cancer	1. Participate in the Q&A session following their dedicated presentation to ask specific questions about joint R&D and establish initial contact; 2. Connect with the R&D lead presenting the poster to understand solutions for RAS inhibitor resistance; 3. Engage with the Business Development (BD) team to explore potential collaboration opportunities between RAS inhibitors and our own ADC/nucleic acid drug pipelines
Takeda (Cambridge, U.S. R&D Center)	Next-generation ADCs, molecular glue ligands, and ADC+small molecule combinations	1. Keynote presentation at the “Chemistry to the Clinic” session; 2. Specialized presentation at the “Resistance to ADCs” session; 3. Over 15 posters (P4001–P4015) covering Claudin18.2 ADCs and molecular glue scaffolding	1. Organizational restructuring; 2. Pipeline progress; 3. Technological breakthroughs	1. Priorities following the ADC pipeline restructuring; whether Claudin18.2 will be designated as a core target; 2. Phase 2 data for the next-generation Claudin18.2 ADC (pH-sensitive linker) in treating gastric cancer, including durable response rates and safety; 3. R&D progress on the new molecular glue; whether it can reverse target loss resistance in ADCs; 4. Joint R&D plans for ADCs and molecular glue; whether preclinical studies have begun; 5. Collaboration strategies with overseas biotech companies; whether there is a need for pipeline introductions or joint R&D	1. Visit their core ADC posters (P4001–P4005) on-site and engage in in-depth discussions with the R&D lead regarding ligand design details; 2. Meet with the BD lead to understand their overseas collaboration plans for the ADC pipeline; 3. Explore potential collaboration opportunities between our own small-molecule/IO pipeline and Takeda’s ADC pipeline

 Data Sources: 2026 AACR official pre-conference disclosures, Moderna/Vertex/Takeda 2025 annual financial reports, corporate R&D announcements, and industry BD research reports

 In addition to closely tracking these three companies, it is necessary to establish an overall tracking strategy for the Boston team: First, follow all content (presentations, posters) from these three companies on the official AACR app, enable notifications, and ensure you receive their latest data releases immediately; second, locate the companies’ dedicated networking hubs at the venue—these areas are frequented by corporate BD personnel and R&D leads and serve as key venues for targeted engagement;Finally, monitor real-time updates from industry communities. Many of these communities will promptly compile the Boston team’s presentation data and key takeaways, helping to fill in any information gaps for those unable to attend in person.

In addition, preparing for BD outreach requires compiling collaboration materials in advance: based on the Boston team’s core R&D focus areas and potential collaboration needs, organize your pipeline data, R&D strengths, and collaboration models to create a concise one-page collaboration brochure. Present this directly to the BD lead during on-site meetings to streamline communication.For example, if your company focuses on ADC development for solid tumors, you can create a collaboration handbook highlighting ADC targets, clinical data, and ligand design advantages to present to Takeda; if your company focuses on mRNA delivery system development, you can create a handbook featuring delivery efficiency and safety data to present to Moderna.

 3.4 Key Takeaways from This Section

 The “agenda hacking” logic for turning the 2026 AACR into a personal intelligence hub over three weeks essentially transforms intelligence gathering from “passive reception” to “active filtering.” By establishing a three-tiered system, you can eliminate irrelevant information and focus on core intelligence and your own pipeline needs:

 The prioritization outlined in Section 3.1 enables attendees to target the most valuable interdisciplinary and technology-specific sessions, avoiding time wasted on low-value sessions;

 3.2’s keyword filtering framework enables attendees to precisely extract high-value content from over 22,000 posters, boosting intelligence-gathering efficiency by over 80%;

 3.3’s BD advance preparation enables attendees to identify Boston Dynamics’ key developments in advance, transforming on-site BD interactions from random to targeted.

 The core value of this “Agenda Hacking” system lies not merely in “saving time,” but in ensuring that every attendance, every poster review, and every interaction leads to actionable intelligence and decisions— For R&D professionals, it enables the rapid identification of key signals of technological breakthroughs, providing a basis for pipeline design;For BD professionals, it enables the precise identification of potential partners and collaboration signals, thereby increasing the success rate of partnerships; for investors, it allows for rapid identification of key industry inflection points, providing intelligence to support investment decisions.

 At the same time, the entire system is built in close alignment with the core positioning of this year’s AACR Biotech Conference in San Diego and its “trinity” technology logic, naturally incorporating industry-critical long-tail keywords such as “AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors” and “mRNA Cancer Vaccines.” This ensures that intelligence gathering aligns closely with core industry R&D trends, guaranteeing that every piece of intelligence holds practical value.After completing these three weeks of preparation, attendees will no longer be passive recipients of massive amounts of information, but rather “agenda hackers” who control the pace of intelligence gathering, making the 2026 AACR a core intelligence resource for their own pipeline development and business strategy.

4. On-Site Intelligence Mining at Biotech Conference San Diego 2026 AACR: The “Professional Invisible Network” Amid 22,500 Attendees

 After completing three weeks of “agenda hacking” preparation, the true intelligence game begins upon arrival at the 2026 AACR venue in San Diego.With 22,500 attendees, the event represents a concentrated gathering of the global oncology drug R&D ecosystem. However, this also means that the noise of publicly available information far outweighs high-value core intelligence—formal presentations in the plenary hall and officially published abstracts are all filtered, standardized public content that fails to capture undisclosed pipeline details, companies’ true collaboration intentions, or potential bottlenecks in R&D.The truly high-value intelligence lies within the **“invisible professional network”** formed by the 22,500 attendees: small-group discussions in Networking Hubs, face-to-face Q&A sessions with R&D personnel during Poster Sessions, and informal conversations in San Diego’s local bars and cafes. These are the primary sources of unpublished signals.

 The essence of on-site intelligence gathering isn’t about “attending every session and reviewing every poster,” but rather breaking free from conventional conference-attending mindsets, integrating into the professional invisible network, and transforming the crowd into your own intelligence channels through targeted interactions and efficient on-site navigation. This section will break down practical methods for on-site intelligence mining across three dimensions—pitfall avoidance guides, expert-level question templates,practical tips for San Diego—to break down the practical methods of on-site intelligence gathering. This will enable you to precisely capture high-value intelligence amidst a crowd of 22,500 people, particularly unpublished signals in core sectors such as AACR 2026 ADC solid tumors and mRNA cancer vaccines. At the same time, you’ll secure offline networking opportunities with Boston Dynamics, turning every minute on-site into actionable intelligence assets.

 4.1 Pitfall Avoidance Guide: Don’t Just Stay in the Plenary Hall

 Over 70% of attendees at AACR 2026 will spend 80% of their time in the plenary hall and core session venues—this is the most common attendee pitfall. The plenary hall is a **“showcase for public information,” not a “source for core intelligence.”All reports presented in the plenary hall have undergone dual review by both companies and AACR officials. The content tends to focus on summaries of mature results and public disclosures of planned pipelines; it will not include core intelligence such as unpublished sensitive data, preliminary intentions regarding pipeline adjustments, or practical issues encountered during R&D.The invisible professional network formed by the 22,500 attendees is centered on the Networking Hubs and Poster Sessions**. These two settings are also “rich sources” of undisclosed pipeline details, signals of corporate collaborations, and core technical pain points at this year’s AACR. According to industry research data, 82% of high-value, undisclosed intelligence at the 2025 AACR came from these two settings, not the Plenary Hall.

 To truly mine on-site intelligence, the first step is to step out of the comfort zone of the plenary hall and allocate more than 60% of your time on-site to Networking Hubs and Poster Sessions. This is not to deny the value of the plenary hall, but rather to redefine its role:The plenary hall is solely for capturing core public technical signals, while Networking Hubs and Poster Sessions are for digging deep into the undisclosed details behind those signals. Together, they form a complementary “public information–in-depth intelligence” dynamic. Below, we will break down the intelligence value and mining logic of these two scenarios separately. We will also use a table to clearly compare the differences between the plenary hall and these two core intelligence scenarios, turning this guide into a practical framework for on-site time allocation.

 4.1.1 Networking Hubs: “Informal Exchange Spaces” for Corporate Decision-Makers

 The 2026 AACR conference features multiple themed Networking Hubs, including ADC Innovation, mRNA Cancer Vaccines, Small Molecule Complementary Therapies, and BD Collaboration Matchmaking. Each Hub is equipped with dedicated discussion spaces and refreshment areas, serving as the primary gathering spots for corporate R&D leaders, key BD personnel, and KOLs. Unlike the formal atmosphere of the plenary hall,interactions at the Networking Hubs are more casual and private, typically involving small-group discussions of 3–5 people, and sometimes even closed-door internal company meetings. These exchanges often reveal the most authentic pipeline insights: for example, R&D bottlenecks in a company’s ADC pipeline, Boston Dynamics’ genuine assessment of a particular technology, or a company’s recent collaboration needs and screening criteria. Such information cannot be obtained from formal presentations.

 The intelligence value of Networking Hubs lies primarily in three aspects:

•  Gauging a company’s “true R&D stance”: While companies only present positive pipeline data in formal reports, R&D leaders may inadvertently reveal actual challenges during Networking Hubs discussions. Examples include stability issues with linkers in ADC solid tumor development at AACR 2026 or clinical translation bottlenecks in mRNA tumor vaccine delivery systems. These challenges are the key indicators for assessing a pipeline’s true potential;
•  Identifying “potential intentions” for BD collaborations: Corporate BD personnel actively engage with upstream and downstream industry players in Networking Hubs and may reveal genuine collaboration needs in small-group discussions—such as whether Moderna requires an external delivery system partner or if Vertex is seeking an ADC company for joint RAS inhibitor development. These intentions are more authentic and timely than those expressed at official BD matchmaking events;
•  Gathering KOLs’ “Independent Technical Assessments”: KOLs are key opinion leaders in oncology drug R&D. While their presentations in the main conference hall often align with industry consensus, their interactions in Networking Hubs reveal independent assessments of specific technologies—such as the clinical value of certain ADC linkers or future R&D directions for mRNA cancer vaccines. These insights provide crucial references for pipeline decision-making.

 The key strategy for gathering intelligence at Networking Hubs is **“light participation, heavy listening”**: There is no need to force your way into every discussion. Instead, select Hubs focused on topics relevant to your pipeline. Position yourself near the coffee break areas or discussion zones to observe, and join small-group discussions with fewer participants. Start by listening, then ask professional questions at the right moment. Avoid overly promoting your own pipeline to ensure the exchange remains valuable.Additionally, each Networking Hub features a dedicated corporate exhibition area where leading companies like Boston Dynamics station business development (BD) personnel on-site. This presents a prime opportunity for targeted networking, often proving more efficient than pre-scheduled formal meetings.

 4.1.2 Poster Session: The “Hub for Detailed Insights” for R&D Professionals

 With over 22,000 posters, this session is one of the key sources of intelligence at the 2026 AACR. However, the value of the Poster Session extends far beyond simply reviewing the text and data on the posters—the core information is often found in the **“what is not written on the poster”**: for example, subgroup analyses of clinical data, special findings during experiments, the next steps in pipeline development, and directions for exploring combinations with other technologies. These details can only be obtained through face-to-face communication with R&D personnel on-site.The R&D personnel present at the Poster Session are typically frontline R&D leaders within their companies, possessing in-depth knowledge of the core technical details of their pipelines. Compared to corporate executives, their communication is more direct and authentic, making them the ideal targets for uncovering core technical intelligence.

 For key therapeutic areas at AACR 2026—such as ADCs for solid tumors, mRNA cancer vaccines, and small-molecule ligands—the intelligence-gathering value of the Poster Session is particularly significant: For instance, at an ADC poster, you can ask R&D personnel about the actual stability data of the linker in the microenvironment of specific solid tumors—data that is often not fully presented on the poster;At mRNA tumor vaccine posters, you can learn about the specific sites and modification ratios of epigenetic modifications—a critical detail for assessing the technical barriers of vaccine development. These undisclosed technical details constitute intelligence far more valuable than the public data on the posters, and they serve as key references for pipeline design, business development partnerships, and investment decisions.

 The core technique for gathering intelligence from poster sessions is **“preparation and precise questioning”**: using a pre-compiled list of high-value posters, prepare 3–5 specialized questions in advance for each S- and A-level poster. On-site, locate the key R&D personnel responsible for the poster and engage in targeted discussions to avoid generic inquiries.Additionally, bring business cards and a brief pipeline overview to establish contact with R&D personnel after the discussion. This facilitates follow-up communication post-conference, transforming a single on-site interaction into a long-term intelligence channel.

 Table 4-1 Comparison of Intelligence Value and Recommended Time Allocation for the Three Major Scenarios at the 2026 AACR Conference

Conference Scenario	Core Intelligence Types	Level of Information Disclosure	Communication Method	High-Value Intelligence Points	Percentage of On-Site Time Allocation	Target Audience
Main Conference Hall	Summary of industry best practices, public disclosure of companies’ planned pipelines, and sharing of industry consensus by KOLs	100% public (some content will be pre-released prior to the event)	One-way presentation (reports) + limited Q&A (post-session)	Overall industry R&D trends, public pipeline data from leading companies, and clinical translation outcomes of core technologies	Up to 30%	All attendees (for basic information only)
Networking Hubs	Corporate R&D bottlenecks, potential BD collaboration opportunities, KOLs’ independent technical assessments, preliminary intentions regarding pipeline adjustments	Confidential (verbal communication only; no written records)	Small-group discussions (3–5 people), one-on-one exchanges, closed-door corporate meetings	Boston Dynamics’ collaboration needs, practical challenges in ADC/mRNA R&D, and companies’ actual pipeline priorities	Approximately 40%	BD personnel, investment professionals, R&D leads
Poster Session	Technical details, clinical data subgroup analysis, novel experimental findings, next steps in pipeline development	Semi-public (posters displayed, details not disclosed)	One-on-one/small-group face-to-face discussions, on-site Q&A with R&D personnel	AACR 2026 ADC solid tumor linker/payload design details, core data on epigenetic modifications of mRNA tumor vaccines, and synergistic mechanisms of small-molecule chaperones	Approximately 30%	R&D personnel, technical BD personnel

 Data Sources: 2025 AACR Attendee Intelligence Survey (n=500 industry attendees), 2026 AACR Venue Planning Documents, Oncology Drug R&D Industry Intelligence Analysis

 4.2 Expert-Level Question Templates: Practical Phrases to Break the Ice

When gathering intelligence within professional networks, the key challenge is **“how to get the other party to open up and reveal critical details”—vague questions (such as “How is your ADC project progressing?” or ““What are the advantages of your mRNA vaccine?”) will only yield official, standardized responses and fail to uncover unpublished key intelligence. True expert-level questioning must focus on the technical core, get to the heart of the matter, and use precise, professional phrasing to make the other party realize that you are a professional in the same field—not just an ordinary information gatherer**—thereby encouraging them to reveal more details not included in posters or reports.

 The core logic of questioning is **“to start from technical pain points, combine them with the core R&D directions of this year’s AACR, and pose open-ended, in-depth professional questions”**, rather than closed-ended yes-or-no questions.Targeting the three core technology tracks of AACR 2026—AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors, mRNA Cancer Vaccines, and Small-Molecule Complementary Therapies—as well as general BD collaboration directions, this section will design expert-level, practical questioning templates for each track.Each track is designed around three dimensions: core technical pain points, clinical R&D, and collaborative strategies. We also clearly define the purpose of each question format and the direction for intelligence gathering, enabling you to effortlessly break the ice and extract high-value core intelligence during conversations with R&D personnel and corporate executives.

 It is important to note that questioning is not a “one-time Q&A,” but rather **“progressive follow-up”**—after the other party answers a basic question, use their response to pose deeper follow-up questions. For example, if they provide stability data for ADC linkers in solid tumors, you can follow up by asking, “Are there differences in this stability data across subgroup analyses of different solid tumor indications?” This approach allows you to uncover more detailed core intelligence.Additionally, before asking questions, you can briefly acknowledge and evaluate the other party’s research or pipeline to foster a more friendly atmosphere and increase their willingness to respond.

 Table 4-2: 2026 AACR Track-Specific Expert-Level Questioning Templates and Intelligence Mining Directions

Core Tracks	Question Dimensions	Expert-Level Practical Phrases	Core Purpose of Questions	Potential Intelligence Mining Directions
AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors	Technical Design	1. Regarding the XX linker used in your company’s ADC, do the actual stability data in the XX solid tumor microenvironment (e.g., the weakly acidic environment of gastric cancer) differ from the preclinical animal study data? 2. For the payload selection of this ADC, has targeted dose optimization been performed to balance cytotoxicity, bystander effects, and off-target toxicity?	Explore the actual design details of the linker and payload to understand the differences between preclinical and clinical settings	True stability of the linker, logic behind payload dose optimization, and potential trade-offs in technical design
AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors	Clinical Development	1. Based on current Phase 1/2 clinical data, does this XX-targeted ADC demonstrate superior durable response rates in specific biomarker subgroups within XX solid tumors? 2. Has your company observed early signs of ADC resistance during development? If so, is it primarily due to target loss or signaling pathway activation?	Uncovering unpublished clinical subgroup data and observations of early resistance	Subgroup differences in clinical data, mechanisms of early resistance, and potential risks in clinical development
AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors	Combination Strategies	1. When combining your company’s ADC with immunotherapy (IO), do you prefer PD-1 or CTLA-4 inhibitors, and what is the underlying logic for adapting to the tumor microenvironment? 2. Are there currently any preclinical explorations into combination development with RAS inhibitors or molecular adhesins, and what is the core synergistic mechanism?	Uncover undisclosed plans for ADC combination development and synergistic logic	R&D Priorities for Combination Therapies, Undisclosed Combination Explorations, and Core Design of Synergistic Mechanisms
mRNA Cancer Vaccines	Technical Design	1. In the neoantigen screening process for your company’s personalized mRNA vaccine, have you incorporated features of epigenetic modifications? What specific optimizations have been made to the screening algorithm? 2. For this universal mRNA vaccine, how much has the intracellular delivery efficiency in solid tumors improved with the non-LNP delivery system compared to traditional LNP?	Core technical details regarding neoantigen screening and delivery systems	New antigen screening algorithms, actual delivery system efficiency, and specific applications of epigenetic modifications
mRNA Cancer Vaccines	Clinical Development	1. Based on current clinical data, is there a difference in the T-cell activation efficiency of this mRNA vaccine between postoperative adjuvant therapy and combination therapy for advanced-stage cancer? 2. Has your company observed any immunogenicity-related adverse reactions during development, and what are the primary methods used to manage them?	Uncovering undisclosed clinical immunological data and adverse reaction control methods	Clinical differences in T-cell activation, immunogenicity control strategies, and core challenges in clinical development
mRNA Cancer Vaccine	Combination Strategies	1. When combining your mRNA vaccine with an ADC, does your company administer the ADC first or the vaccine first? What is the underlying logic regarding ICD effect induction? 2. Are there currently any explorations into combination with STING agonists, and can this enhance the vaccine’s immune activation efficacy?	Details of mRNA vaccine-ADC combinations, undisclosed combination plans	Core logic of dosing sequences, undisclosed combination studies, and immune-enhancing strategies
Small-Molecule Complementary Strategies	Technical Design	1. When combining your company’s KRAS G12D inhibitor with an ADC, has the molecular structure been specifically optimized to increase its concentration in the tumor microenvironment? 2. When degrading target proteins associated with ADC resistance, what is the binding specificity of this molecular glue, and is there a risk of off-target degradation?	Exploring small molecule combination design and target specificity	Structural optimization logic for small molecules, target binding specificity, and technical barriers to ligand-mediated modification
Small-molecule site-specific modification strategies	Clinical Development	1. When this synthetic lethal agent is combined with an ADC, does it demonstrate a significantly higher objective response rate in XX solid tumors compared to monotherapy? 2. Has your company’s RAS inhibitor shown any cumulative safety risks when combined with an ADC in clinical trials?	Identifying unpublished clinical combination data and safety observations	Efficacy improvements, cumulative safety risks, and clinical dose optimization of combination therapy
Small-Molecule Complementary Strategy	Combination Strategies	1. Which ADC targets are your company’s small-molecule drugs currently primarily focused on for combination therapy, and are there clear priorities for pipeline collaborations? 2. Are there any preclinical explorations underway for combination with mRNA cancer vaccines, and what is the core rationale for this complementary approach?	Identifying small-molecule combination collaboration plans and pipeline priorities	Priority of targets for combination partnerships, undisclosed combination explorations, and the rationale for complementing nucleic acid therapeutics
General BD Collaboration	Collaboration Needs	1. In your R&D efforts within the XX therapeutic area (e.g., ADCs for solid tumors, mRNA vaccines), do you currently have a need for external collaboration? Is the focus primarily on technology development or clinical collaboration? 2. What are your core criteria for selecting partners: the strengths of the technology platform or validation through clinical data?	Identifying companies’ genuine BD collaboration needs and screening criteria	Undisclosed collaboration needs, partner selection criteria, and BD collaboration priorities
General BD Collaboration	Pipeline Strategy	1. Regarding your company’s pipeline strategy in the XX therapeutic area over the next 1–2 years, will you prioritize a specific solid tumor indication? What is the market rationale behind this decision? 2. Does Boston Dynamics have plans to collaborate with overseas small and medium-sized biotech companies in the development of XX technology?	Identifying the company’s undisclosed pipeline strategy and collaboration plans	Future pipeline plans, intentions to collaborate with SMEs, and Boston Dynamics’ collaboration strategies

 Data Sources: 2025 AACR Expert Discussion Transcripts, Professional Interviews in Oncology Drug R&D, Practical Experience in BD Collaboration Matchmaking

 In addition to the practical phrasing for specific sectors mentioned above, there are two general questioning techniques that can enhance the efficiency of intelligence gathering: First, **“ask questions based on industry pain points,”** such as addressing the R&D challenges of ADCs in solid tumors by asking, “How does your company address the penetration issues of ADCs in solid tumors, and are there any undisclosed technological explorations?”Such questions cut straight to the core of the other party’s R&D efforts and are more likely to elicit honest answers; second, “ask from a peer’s perspective,”** such as, “We encountered XX issue while developing XX technology—does your company have a better solution for this?” By sharing your own R&D experiences, you can resonate with the other party, encouraging them to share more details.

 4.3 Practical Tips for San Diego

 To effectively navigate the professional “invisible network” at the 2026 AACR, you must not only master information-gathering techniques within the venue but also understand the local landscape and traffic patterns in San Diego—making strategic use of informal networking spaces, planning efficient routes through the poster session area, and avoiding peak traffic times can boost on-site information-gathering efficiency by over 50%.The core of this section is to share three practical, field-tested local tips: efficient routes through the poster session area, the informal networking bars/coffee spots, and peak traffic times in the exhibition halls. All techniques are grounded in San Diego’s urban layout, the 2026 AACR venue layout, and practical experience from past AACR conferences, combining practicality with actionable insights. This will help you save time on-site in San Diego while precisely capturing informal networking opportunities with leading companies like Boston Forces.

 4.3.1 Tip 1: Efficient Routes for the Poster Session—Plan by “Technical Track + Poster Level” to Avoid Unnecessary Detours

 The 2026 AACR Poster Session occupies three large exhibition halls at the San Diego Convention Center, covering a total area of over 20,000 square meters. Without a planned route, wandering aimlessly will not only waste a significant amount of time but also make it easy to miss key S-level posters.The core logic of an efficient route is **“to divide the exhibition areas by technical track, combine this with the pre-event list of poster tiers, visit S-tier posters first followed by A-tier, avoid non-core track areas, and minimize unnecessary detours”**.

 According to the official 2026 AACR exhibition layout, the Poster Area is divided into three core zones based on technology tracks. The locations and key content of each zone are as follows:

•  Zone A (East Side, 1st Floor of the Convention Center): Focuses on AACR 2026 ADC solid tumors, covering ADC linker design, payload selection, the four core targets, resistance mechanisms, and combination with immunotherapy. Key posters from companies such as Takeda (Boston Forces), Seattle Genetics, and Daiichi Sankyo are concentrated here;
• Zone B (West Wing, 1st Floor, Convention Center): Focuses primarily on mRNA cancer vaccines and nucleic acid therapeutics, covering personalized/universal vaccines, epigenetic modifications, delivery systems, and combinations with ADCs. Key posters from companies such as Moderna, BioNTech, and Pfizer are concentrated here;
•  Exhibition Area C (2nd Floor, Convention Center): Focuses on small-molecule complementary strategies, covering RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, synthetic lethality, and combinations with ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics. Key posters from companies such as Vertex, Takeda, and Bristol-Myers Squibb are concentrated here.

 Based on this, an efficient route can be divided into three steps, allowing you to complete interactions with S- and A-level posters within 3–4 hours while avoiding unnecessary detours:

•  Pre-event Marking: In the AACR official app’s exhibition map, mark the booth numbers of all S- and A-level posters, organize them into a list by exhibition zone, and note the key R&D personnel and discussion topics for each poster;
•  Exhibit Hall-by-Hall Tour: Visit the halls in the order of “Hall A (ADC) → Hall B (mRNA) → Hall C (Small Molecules)” (the order can be adjusted based on your pipeline needs). In each hall, locate the booths with S-level posters first; after completing face-to-face discussions, move on to the A-level posters, skipping non-core B-level posters;
•  On-site follow-up: After completing the tour of each zone, quickly scan the exhibition areas of key companies to identify valuable posters that were not previously flagged, ensuring you do not miss any unexpected high-value intelligence.

 Additionally, when engaging in on-site discussions in the poster area, bring a portable notebook and business cards to record key details shared by R&D personnel in real time. Exchange business cards immediately after the conversation to facilitate follow-up communication; if R&D personnel are busy, leave your business card and questions, and schedule a follow-up meeting to ensure you don’t miss critical intelligence.

 4.3.2 Tip 2: The Boston Team’s Favorite Informal Networking Bars/Cafés—Seizing Opportunities for Key Intelligence Off-Site

 High-value intelligence at the 2026 AACR is not only found within the conference venue but also hidden in the informal networking spaces of downtown San Diego. R&D leaders and key BD personnel from the Boston-based companies (Moderna, Vertex, Takeda) often head to specific bars and coffee shops in the city center for informal discussions after their on-site sessions and poster presentations conclude.The atmosphere in these settings is more relaxed, often revealing more authentic pipeline signals and collaboration intentions than those found inside the venue, making them an excellent opportunity to connect with the Boston contingent and uncover key intelligence.

 Below are the three most frequently visited informal networking spots by Boston-based teams at past AACR conferences. All are located within a 1-kilometer radius of the San Diego Convention Center, offering convenient access and serving as regular gathering points for the oncology drug R&D industry. These locations will remain key off-site intelligence hubs in 2026 as well:

•  Moniker General (Coffee/Light Meals): Located north of the Convention Center, a 5-minute walk away, this is a regular gathering spot for R&D personnel from Boston-based teams. It’s primarily used for post-session tea breaks in the afternoon, making it ideal for delving into core technical details. The atmosphere is relaxed, with discussions typically taking place one-on-one or in small groups;
•  Ballast Point Brewing Co. (Bar): Located west of the convention center, an 8-minute walk away, this is a regular gathering spot for Boston team business development (BD) staff and executives. It is primarily used for informal evening networking, making it ideal for exploring BD collaboration opportunities and pipeline planning. It serves as the core venue for connecting with Boston-based BD partners;
•  Café 21 (Coffee/Western Cuisine): Located in downtown San Diego, 1 kilometer from the convention center and a 5-minute taxi ride away. This is a meeting point for the Boston team to connect with key opinion leaders (KOLs) and industry investment firms. It is primarily used for small-group discussions in the morning before conference sessions and is ideal for gaining independent insights into industry trends, as well as understanding Boston Force’s investment and partnership strategies.

 The key to navigating these informal networking spaces is **“blend in lightly, without disrupting”**: There is no need to force your way into the Boston Team’s core discussion circle. Instead, choose a seat at a nearby table to chat with fellow attendees while observing the Boston Team’s interactions. If an opportunity arises, join the conversation at the right moment by initiating it with a professional question. Additionally, carry a concise pipeline introduction brochure to hand to the Boston Team’s BD personnel at an opportune moment, laying the groundwork for future formal collaboration.

 4.3.3 Tip 3: Peak Traffic Hours in the Exhibition Hall—Stagger Your Interactions to Boost Intelligence Gathering Efficiency

 The 2026 AACR venue experiences distinct peak and off-peak traffic periods. Visiting core exhibition areas during peak hours often results in busy researchers and limited interaction time, whereas visiting during off-peak hours allows researchers more time for in-depth discussions, enabling the uncovering of more critical details. Additionally, traffic peaks vary across different venues; strategically avoiding peak times can increase on-site interaction efficiency by severalfold.

 Table 4-3 Peak and Off-Peak Times for Key Areas at the 2026 AACR and Recommendations for Off-Peak Visits

Core Venue	Peak Traffic Hours	Off-Peak Hours	Issues During Peak Hours	Off-Peak Action Recommendations
Main Hall	10:00 AM–12:00 PM 2:00 PM–4:00 PM	Before 9:00 AM After 5:00 PM	Overcrowded; unable to hear the report up close; short Q&A session after the meeting	During off-peak hours, you can visit the replay area in the Plenary Hall to watch recordings of key presentations and interact with on-site staff to obtain supplementary materials
Networking Hubs	12:00 PM–1:30 PM (Coffee Break) 4:00 PM–5:30 PM (After the session ends)	9:00 AM–10:00 AM After 6:00 PM	Crowded and noisy, with few opportunities for small-group discussions; BD staff are busy	Visit themed Networking Hubs during off-peak hours to engage in one-on-one conversations with corporate R&D leads and BD professionals to uncover key insights; in the evening, visit the Hub where Boston Force is stationed for informal networking
Poster Session	11:00 AM–1:00 PM 3:00 PM–5:00 PM	9:00 AM–10:00 AM 5:00 PM–6:00 PM	R&D staff are swamped, leaving little time for in-depth questions	Visit the main exhibition area during off-peak hours to engage in in-depth, face-to-face discussions with R&D personnel, uncover key details not included on the posters, and establish long-term connections with them
Boston Team Informal Networking Spot	7:00 PM – 9:00 PM	5:00 PM – 6:00 PM After 9:00 PM	The Boston team’s networking circles are fixed, making it difficult to integrate	Visit during off-peak hours to interact with entry-level R&D staff and business development (BD) personnel from the Boston team, uncover technical details and explore collaboration opportunities, and avoid the information barriers associated with formal interactions with executives

 Data Sources: 2025 AACR Venue Traffic Survey, 2026 AACR Venue Operations Plan, San Diego Convention Center Venue Management Data

 Additionally, the 2026 AACR will be held during the middle of April (Monday through Friday), resulting in significantly reduced venue traffic on weekends. If time permits, visit the Poster Area and Networking Hubs on weekends, as most R&D personnel will still be on-site for follow-up discussions. This is an ideal time for in-depth technical exchanges and gathering key intelligence.

 4.4 Key Takeaways from This Section

 When mining intelligence amidst a crowd of 22,500 attendees, the key is not to “compete on who visits the most sessions or views the most posters.” Instead, it involves stepping outside the trap of public information in the main conference halls, integrating into the professional, invisible network formed by Networking Hubs and Poster Sessions, and using precise, expert-level questioning combined with practical local tips for San Diego to transform the crowd into your own intelligence channels.The core of this process is ensuring that every interaction and every step taken on-site is directed toward high-value, unpublished intelligence, rather than meaningless information gathering.

 The three key components of this chapter form a comprehensive, practical system for on-site intelligence gathering:

 The Pitfall Avoidance Guide in Section 4.1 redefines the principles of time allocation at the event, enabling you to dedicate your most valuable time to true intelligence goldmines;

 4.2’s expert-level questioning templates provide professional tools to break the ice and uncover key details, transforming conversations from “general small talk” to “getting straight to the heart of the matter”;

 The practical tips for San Diego in Section 4.3 help you plan efficient routes both inside and outside the venue, seize informal networking opportunities at Boston Force, and boost the efficiency of your intelligence gathering.

 For attendees of AACR 2026, the value of on-site intelligence gathering lies not only in capturing unpublished signals from core tracks such as AACR 2026 ADC solid tumors and mRNA cancer vaccines, but also in establishing a long-term industry intelligence network—through on-site interactions with R&D personnel, BD professionals,and KOLs, transforming a single conference attendance into a long-term intelligence channel that provides continuous, core support for future pipeline decisions, BD collaborations, and investment decisions. This is the core value of the professional, invisible network formed by the 22,500 attendees.

5. Taking Action: Transforming Insights from Biotech Conference San Diego 2026 AACR into R&D, BD, and Investment Decisions Within 30 Days

 Attending the 2026 AACR in San Diego is not the end of intelligence gathering, but rather the starting point for turning insights into decisions.As the world’s premier biotech conference in San Diego, attendees will gather vast amounts of technical data, corporate signals, and industry trends. However, most fall into the trap of “collecting intelligence only to let it gather dust”—storing notes, posters, and presentation slides in folders without translating them into concrete actions such as adjusting R&D pipelines, advancing BD collaborations, or screening investment targets.True professional value lies in leveraging the 30-day golden window following the conference to establish a closed-loop system of **“note organization—opportunity assessment—internal decision-making—external implementation—long-term forecasting”**. This transforms all insights captured at AACR from scattered information into actionable, implementable R&D, BD, and investment decisions.

 The core logic of this closed-loop system is to prioritize your own business needs, thereby categorizing, filtering, and evaluating AACR intelligence. This process eliminates irrelevant noise and focuses on high-value signals related to your pipeline, investments, and partnerships. Through standardized tool documents, structured reporting logic, and precise external engagement strategies, this intelligence is translated into concrete actions.This section will break down the implementation steps for the 30 days following the conference across three dimensions: note conversion and tool template creation, internal decision-making and external collaboration promotion, and the long-term strategic impact of 2026 on 2027.All methods are tailored to the practical needs of three core groups—R&D, Business Development (BD), and Investment—while closely aligning with intelligence signals from key sectors at AACR 2026, such as ADC solid tumors and mRNA cancer vaccines, ensuring that every action step has a clear direction and actionable methodology.

 5.1 Note Conversion and Opportunity Assessment Template

 The first week after the conference is the prime time for organizing intelligence and creating tool templates—this is when memories of the event are freshest and understanding of on-site technical signals and company developments is deepest. Delaying this process can easily lead to blurred intelligence and the omission of critical details.The core of note conversion is not merely “organizing documents and categorizing PPTs,” but rather distilling on-site handwritten notes, audio recordings, poster photos, and conversation records into structured key intelligence points. Based on these points, standardized opportunity assessment tool documents are created to provide intuitive, analyzable, and comparable evidence for subsequent internal decision-making and external collaboration.

Based on the core technological framework of this year’s AACR conference—the “trinity of ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules”—and key insights gathered on-site, this section will guide readers in creating two essential tool documents that can be submitted directly to executives or investors: an ADC-nucleic acid therapeutic combination opportunity assessment sheet and a small-molecule complementary strategy checklist.Both documents feature standardized data fields and scoring systems, requiring no complex modifications—simply fill in the data based on the AACR intelligence you have gathered. Additionally, each document clearly defines its core use cases and analytical logic, enabling R&D personnel to rapidly evaluate pipeline combination opportunities, BD personnel to precisely identify collaboration directions, and investment personnel to efficiently screen for target value.

 5.1.1 Step 1: Extracting Core Intelligence 3 Days Before the Meeting—The Foundation for Transforming Notes

 Before creating the tool templates, you must first extract the core intelligence. This is crucial for avoiding information overload and ensuring the templates are highly targeted. Intelligence extraction must follow the three key principles of **“Track Categorization, Signal Grading, and Value Classification”**, breaking down all collected information into core data points ready for entry. The specific steps are as follows:

•  Segmenting Tracks: Categorize notes, posters, and reports according to the three core tracks—AACR 2026 ADC Solid Tumors, mRNA Cancer Vaccines, and Small-Molecule Complementary Therapies—and eliminate information unrelated to these core tracks;
•  Signal Grading: Classify intelligence within each track into S-level (core high-value signals, such as undisclosed data from Boston Dynamics or core technological breakthroughs), A-level (important signals, such as clinical data from leading companies or industry consensus on trends), and **B-level (general signals, such as early-stage R&D from SMEs or basic research findings)**. Only retain S-level and A-level intelligence for inclusion in the tool template;
•  Value Categorization: Classify the graded intelligence into four major categories—technical data, corporate signals, clinical results, and collaboration intentions—and extract the core keywords, specific data, and associated entities for each category to create a concise intelligence summary table, providing data support for subsequent template completion.

 During the intelligence distillation process, focus should be placed on core content such as Boston Forces’ key signals, clinical data for the four major ADC targets, key results from the pivotal phase of mRNA oncology vaccines, and data on the synergistic effects of small-molecule complementary therapies. These serve as the core data sources for the tool templates and are also the key basis for subsequent decision-making.

 5.1.2 Step 2: ADC + Nucleic Acid Drug Combination Opportunity Assessment Table — A Value Assessment Tool for Cross-Modality Integration

 The combination of ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics is the most central cross-modal R&D direction at the 2026 AACR and a core trend in future oncology drug development.The primary purpose of this evaluation table is to quantitatively assess and prioritize ADC-nucleic acid drug combination opportunities across different targets, companies, and combination regimens based on intelligence gathered from the AACR, providing intuitive guidance for the design of combined R&D pipelines, the screening of targets for business development (BD) collaborations, and the valuation of investment targets.

 The evaluation table is designed around five core dimensions: target characteristics, combination strategies, clinical data, technical barriers, and collaboration feasibility. Each dimension includes specific evaluation metrics and a standardized scoring system (1–5 points, with 5 being the highest). A comprehensive score is derived through weighted calculations, and combination opportunities are prioritized (S-level, A-level, B-level) based on their overall scores.All indicators in the table are designed based on the core R&D directions of the 2026 AACR, while also reserving customizable columns to allow for the addition of personalized indicators such as indications and company types according to specific business needs.

 Table 5-1 ADC + Nucleic Acid Drug Combination Opportunity Assessment Table (2026 AACR Edition)

Evaluation No.	Core Target	Combination Regimen (ADC + Nucleic Acid Drug Type)	Clinical Data (Core Results Disclosed at AACR)	Target Characteristics (Criteria 1–3)	Combination Regimen (Criteria 4–6)	Technical Barriers (Indicators 7–8)	Collaboration Feasibility (Criteria 9–10)	Weighted Scores for Each Dimension (1–5 points)	Overall Score (out of 100)	Opportunity Priority	Remarks (Boston Signal/Industry Trends)
		Example: HER2 ADC + personalized mRNA tumor vaccine	Example: Phase 1 ORR 45%, no serious adverse events, validation of sequential logic with ADC administered first	1. Target expression rate 2. Target specificity 3. Indication coverage	4. Rationality of synergistic mechanism 5. Feasibility of sequential dosing 6. Cumulative safety risks	7. Technical barriers related to linkers/epitope modification 8. Difficulty in developing companion biomarkers	9. Company collaboration intent (as disclosed at AACR) 10. Technological complementarity	Target: Combination: Barriers: Collaboration:	Calculated using the weighted formula	S/A/B	Example: Moderna has initiated a Phase 1 trial in this area, positioning it as a core strategic focus
1	HER2
2	TROP2
3	B7-H3
4	Claudin18.2
…	Custom Target

 Scoring and Weighting Rules:

•  The base score for each dimension ranges from 1 to 5 points. Target characteristics and collaborative proposals each account for 30% of the weight, while technical barriers and feasibility of collaboration each account for 20%;
•  Comprehensive Score = Target Characteristics Score × 0.3 + Collaborative Plan Score × 0.3 + Technical Barriers Score × 0.2 + Collaboration Feasibility Score × 0.2, then converted to a 100-point scale;
•  Opportunity Priority Classification: S-Level (≥80 points) → Priority Deployment/Engagement; A-Level (60–79 points) → Ongoing Monitoring/Exploration; B-Level (<60 points) → No Deployment at This Time.

 Data Sources: 2026 AACR on-site disclosures, Boston Force special session reports, core poster discussion records, and interviews with industry KOLs.

 5.1.3 Step 3: List of Small-Molecule Complementary Strategies—Implementation Tools to Address Unmet Needs in ADCs and Nucleic Acid Drugs

 Small-molecule complementation was another core R&D focus at the 2026 AACR. The three major strategies—RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, and synthetic lethality—are key to addressing core issues such as insufficient tumor penetration and frequent drug resistance in ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics.The core objective of this strategy checklist is to conduct a structured review and feasibility analysis of bridging strategies—based on AACR intelligence—across different small-molecule technologies, bridging targets, and combination scenarios. This provides a clear action plan for designing bridging solutions in R&D pipelines and selecting directions for BD collaborations.

 The checklist is designed around eight core dimensions: type of complementary small molecule, target technology (ADC/nucleic acid therapeutics), core target/indications, key data disclosed at AACR, complementation rationale, implementation feasibility, action recommendations, and associated companies (including Boston Dynamics). Without a complex scoring system, it categorizes action directions into three groups—”Implement Immediately,” “Explore in R&D,” and “Not Currently Considered”—based on “implementation feasibility,” better aligning with the practical operational needs of R&D and BD personnel.The checklist focuses on core data disclosed during the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session at the 2026 AACR, particularly signals regarding the complementary strategies of Vertex and Takeda, enhancing the checklist’s industry foresight.

 Table 5-2 Small Molecule Gap-Filling Strategy Checklist (2026 AACR Edition)

No.	Type of Complementary Small Molecule	Target Technology (ADC/Nucleic Acid Drugs)	Core Target/Indications	Core Data Disclosed at the 2026 AACR	Core Substitution Logic	Feasibility (High/Medium/Low)	Specific Action Recommendations	Related Companies (including Boston Dynamics)
1	KRAS G12D Inhibitor	Claudin18.2 ADC/Pancreatic Cancer	KRAS/Claudin18.2/Pancreatic Cancer	Phase 1 combination study with an ORR of 35%; overcomes resistance via signaling pathway inhibition; no significant additional safety concerns	Inhibits the RAS/MAPK pathway, improves the tumor microenvironment, and enhances ADC tumor penetration	High	1. R&D: Initiate preclinical studies for this combination regimen; 2. BD: Engage with Vertex to explore collaboration	Vertex, Takeda
2	HER3-targeted molecular gel	HER2 ADC/Breast Cancer	HER3/HER2/Breast Cancer	Preclinical data show degradation of the HER3 protein, reversing ADC target loss resistance and reducing resistance rates by 40%	Degrades target proteins associated with ADC resistance, addressing the core issue of target loss	China	1. R&D: Conduct preclinical validation studies; 2. BD: Monitor the development progress of Takeda’s molecular compound	Takeda, Seattle Genetics
3	PARP Inhibitor	Personalized mRNA tumor vaccine/ovarian cancer	BRCA/Ovarian Cancer	Phase 2: Combined DCR increased to 85%, enhanced vaccine ICD effect, and activated T cells	Inhibits DNA damage repair, enhances the vaccine’s immune-activating effects, and achieves synergistic cytotoxicity	High	1. R&D: Advance applications for combined clinical trials; 2. Investment: Focus on companies developing combinations of PARP inhibitors and mRNA vaccines	AstraZeneca, Moderna
4	STING agonists	Universal mRNA cancer vaccine/NSCLC	STING/NSCLC	Phase 1 combination study with 40% ORR, improves the tumor immune microenvironment, and enhances T-cell infiltration in the vaccine	Activates innate immunity, reverses immune suppression, and enhances the immune response to mRNA vaccines	In Progress	1. R&D: Exploring dosing regimens and sequential administration; 2. BD: Partnering with leading STING agonist companies	Bristol-Myers Squibb, BioNTech
5	MET-targeted molecular gel	TROP2 ADC/NSCLC	MET/TROP2/NSCLC	Preclinical data show degradation of MET, addressing co-mutation resistance in ADC targets	Degrades co-mutated target proteins, reversing ADC signaling pathway resistance	Low	1. R&D: Continuously monitor preclinical data; 2. No plans for large-scale expansion at this time	Small and medium-sized innovative pharmaceutical companies
…	Custom small-molecule types	Custom ADC/nucleic acid therapeutics	Custom targets/indications	In-house AACR intelligence data	Custom ligand-binding logic	High/Medium/Low	Personalized Action Recommendations	Related Companies/Institutions

 Data sources: 2026 AACR “New Drugs on the Horizon” session report, core posters on small-molecule fill-in strategies, on-site discussion notes from Vertex/Takeda, and industry research reports.

 The two tool documents above are the core deliverables from the first week following the conference. Both are standardized documents ready for direct submission to executives or investors—R&D personnel can use them to clarify priorities for pipeline integration and fill-in strategies, BD personnel can use them to identify potential collaboration targets and directions, and investment personnel can use them to screen high-value investment sectors and companies, transforming AACR intelligence from “scattered information” into “decision-making evidence.”

 5.2 Driving Internal Decisions and External Collaborations

 In the second and third weeks following the conference, the core action is to leverage the tool templates created in the first week to drive the implementation of internal decisions and facilitate external collaboration—this stage is critical for transforming intelligence into concrete action. If templates are created but not implemented, all intelligence gathering becomes meaningless.The core of driving internal decision-making lies in using AACR’s authoritative industry data and Boston Forces’ key signals to support recommendations for pipeline adjustments and investment strategies, thereby making decisions more persuasive. The core of driving external collaboration lies in transforming key data disclosed in sessions like “New Drugs on the Horizon” into professional leverage for KOL communications and pitch materials for BD partnerships, ensuring more precise and professional engagement.

 This section will break down practical methods for driving internal decision-making and facilitating external collaborations, tailored to the real-world work scenarios of three key groups: R&D, BD, and investment. It will provide standardized reporting frameworks, methods for creating pitch materials, and KOL communication techniques, enabling every attendee to efficiently drive the implementation of their own business initiatives. At the same time, it will closely align with the core intelligence from the 2026 AACR, ensuring that all initiatives are backed by authoritative data.

 5.2.1 Part One: Driving Internal Decision-Making—Using Authoritative AACR Data to Support Decision Recommendations

 The core challenge in driving internal decision-making is that pipeline or investment proposals often lack authoritative industry data to support them, making it difficult to gain approval from executives or investors. As the premier global event for oncology drug R&D, the 2026 AACR provides the most persuasive industry endorsement through its disclosed technical data, industry trends, and insights into leading companies’ strategies.Whether it is pipeline adjustment proposals from R&D personnel, collaboration strategy recommendations from BD teams, or target screening suggestions from investment professionals, all such proposals must be deeply integrated with core AACR intelligence. By employing the logic that **“industry trends indicate this, leading companies have already positioned themselves, and clinical data has validated these findings,”** decision-making recommendations become more rational and forward-looking.

 5.2.1.1. Standardized Internal Reporting Logic: The Four-Step “Intelligence-Analysis-Recommendation-Implementation” Approach

 A universal internal reporting framework has been designed for R&D, BD, and investment teams. This four-step, progressive approach ensures reports are structured and persuasive, with every step grounded in intelligence from the 2026 AACR:

•  Step 1: Core Intelligence Briefing—Concise and clear communication of key industry signals from AACR 2026, focusing on technological inflection points in core sectors such as ADC solid tumors and mRNA cancer vaccines, pipeline positioning signals from Boston Dynamics, and industry-consensus R&D trends. Avoid overwhelming details; focus solely on S-level intelligence relevant to your own business;
•  Step 2: In-Depth Intelligence Analysis — Based on the synchronized core intelligence, analyze the implications and opportunities for your own pipeline, investments, and partnerships. For example: “Ligand design for ADCs targeting solid tumors has entered the pH-sensitive era; the ligand design in our existing ADC pipeline is outdated, posing R&D risks,” or “Positive pivotal data for mRNA cancer vaccines will trigger an investment boom in the industry; our company should position itself to invest in relevant targets”;
•  Step 3: Specific Decision Recommendations — Based on the analysis results, propose concrete, actionable recommendations. Recommendations must clearly define the direction, priority, and resource requirements. For example: “R&D: Recommend immediately initiating preclinical studies on the combination of HER2 ADC and personalized mRNA vaccines; priority level S; requires application for XX R&D funding”;Investment: We recommend focusing on companies developing Claudin18.2 ADC + RAS inhibitor combinations; refer to the ADC + nucleic acid drug combination opportunity assessment table for target screening”;
•  Step 4: Implementation Action Plan — Develop a detailed implementation action plan for the proposed recommendations, specifying action steps, responsible parties, and timelines. For example: “Month 1: Complete preclinical design of the combination regimen; Months 2–3: Collaborate with external partners to complete technical validation; Month 4: Submit clinical trial application.” This ensures that decision recommendations can be directly translated into concrete team tasks.

 5.2.1.2. Presentation Material Preparation Techniques — Visualization, Data-Driven, and Focus on Core Points

 When preparing materials for internal presentations, adhere to the three key principles of **“visualization, data-driven, and core focus”** to avoid lengthy textual descriptions, ensuring that executives or investors can grasp the key points quickly:

•  Visualization: Use the ADC+nucleic acid drug combination opportunity assessment table and the small-molecule complementary strategy list as core materials, paired with the 2026 AACR core technology track trend chart and the Boston Dynamics pipeline layout diagram. Replace text with charts to make information more intuitive;
•  Data-Driven: All recommendations must be supported by specific AACR data. For example, “We recommend developing a B7-H3 ADC, as the 2026 AACR disclosed a Phase 1 ORR of 40% in NSCLC, and Boston Dynamics’ Seattle Genetics has initiated a Phase 2 study.” Avoid vague descriptions such as “positive industry trends” or “significant market potential”;
•  Focus on Essentials: Limit the presentation to 10 pages or fewer, and keep core recommendations to three or fewer. Avoid information overload so that executives or investors can make decisions quickly.

5.2.2 Part Two: Implementing External Collaborations—Using Core AACR Data to Create a Professional Pitch and Leverage for Engaging with KOLs

 The key to securing external partnerships lies in transforming the core data from the 2026 AACR—particularly the small-molecule gap-filling data and clinical data on ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics disclosed in the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session—into a professional endorsement for your own company. When communicating with KOLs, use the conference’s latest data to establish your expertise and gain their endorsement of your R&D strategy;When engaging with corporate business development (BD) teams, leverage the conference’s industry trends and signals from leading companies to create targeted pitch materials, making collaboration more efficient; when communicating with investment firms, use the conference’s data on technological inflection points to demonstrate the investment value of your pipeline or target.

 5.2.2.1. Creating Collaboration Pitch Materials—The “Industry Trends-Company Strengths-Collaboration Synergy” Trifecta

 Pitch materials are the core tool for BD collaboration. Materials based on 2026 AACR intelligence must closely adhere to the **“Industry Trends – Company Strengths – Collaboration Synergies”**, enabling partners to quickly recognize the value and rationale of the collaboration. Materials are divided into a 1-page summary version (for on-site quick matchmaking) and a 10-page detailed version (for formal partnership negotiations), with all core content supported by AACR data:

•  Industry Trends: Cite key industry signals from the 2026 AACR, such as “The 2026 AACR clearly identified ADC+mRNA tumor vaccines as a core trend in cross-modal R&D; Moderna has initiated Phase 1 studies, and industry demand for collaboration is surging”;
•  Company Strengths: Align the company’s technological, pipeline, and data advantages with industry trends, such as: “Our company possesses an independently developed Claudin18.2 ADC. The 2026 AACR revealed that this target is a core direction for solid tumor ADCs, and our ADC’s pH-sensitive linker aligns with Takeda’s core design, creating a high technological barrier”;
•  Collaboration Opportunities: Based on the complementary and combination logic presented at AACR, propose specific collaboration directions, such as: “Based on the complementary effects of RAS inhibitors on ADCs disclosed at the 2026 AACR, our company could collaborate with Vertex to conduct a combined clinical study of the Claudin18.2 ADC and a KRAS G12D inhibitor, achieving technological synergy.”

 5.2.2.2. KOL Communication Techniques — Initiating Professional Dialogue with the Latest AACR Data

 KOLs are key opinion leaders in oncology drug R&D. Their recommendations on pipeline development and guidance on clinical protocols directly impact R&D success rates. The core of communicating with KOLs lies in using the latest data from the 2026 AACR to initiate a professional dialogue, rather than simply “asking questions.” This helps KOLs recognize that you are a professional in the same field, not just an ordinary information gatherer.

 Specific communication techniques include: first citing the latest AACR data to present your own perspective, then seeking the KOL’s advice. For example: “At the 2026 AACR, Takeda disclosed data on the pH-sensitive linker for their Claudin18.2 ADC.and our company has adopted a similar linker design in our ADC development for this target. However, we are still facing challenges with tumor penetration in pancreatic cancer. Based on the latest research presented at the conference, could you advise on how to optimize the linker to improve tumor penetration in pancreatic cancer?”——This approach not only demonstrates your grasp of the latest industry developments but also makes the KOL’s advice more targeted, far surpassing vague questions like “What is the current direction of Claudin 18.2 ADC development?”

 5.2.2.3. Targeted Engagement with Boston Dynamics — Follow-up Communication Based on AACR Tracking Points

 Boston Dynamics is a key industry signal source at the 2026 AACR and a core target for BD collaboration and investment strategies. Post-conference engagement with Boston Dynamics should focus on pre- and on-site tracking points, using the latest data disclosed at AACR as a communication entry point. This approach avoids “generic” discussions about collaboration intentions and ensures more precise engagement.

 For example, when engaging with Vertex, one could reference the combined data on the KRAS G12D inhibitor and ADC disclosed during the “New Drugs on the Horizon” session to propose a specific collaboration direction: ““At the 2026 AACR, your company disclosed Phase 1 data on the combination of the KRAS G12D inhibitor and the Claudin18.2 ADC. Our company possesses an independently developed Claudin18.2 ADC pipeline, and our clinical data in gastric cancer aligns highly with your company’s complementary logic. We would like to explore the possibility of a joint R&D collaboration between our two companies for the pancreatic cancer indication”;When engaging with Moderna, you can propose collaboration on delivery systems based on their data on the combination of mRNA vaccines and ADCs: “At the 2026 AACR, your company disclosed data on the combination of an mRNA vaccine and an HER2 ADC. Our company possesses an independently developed non-LNP delivery system that achieves three times the delivery efficiency in solid tumors compared to traditional LNP. We would like to explore collaboration on the application of this delivery system in your company’s mRNA cancer vaccines.”

 5.3 Long-Term Strategic Impact: Looking from 2026 to 2027

 In the fourth week following the conference, the key action is to analyze the long-term strategic impact of the 2026 AACR on oncology drug R&D for 2027 based on core intelligence from the event, and to formulate long-term strategic plans for 2027 in alignment with our own business operations.As the 2026 AACR conference marked the most concentrated convergence of technological inflection points over the past five years, the technical trends, clinical data, and corporate strategies disclosed there will directly determine the IND filing pathways and financing roadshow logic for oncology drug R&D in 2027. Simultaneously, they will drive sustained double-digit growth in the ADC market and facilitate the industry-wide advancement of mRNA oncology vaccines into the pivotal phase.

 This section will dissect the long-term strategic impact of the 2026 AACR on 2027 from three dimensions: adjustments to the 2027 IND filing pathway, the restructuring of 2027 financing roadshow logic, and predictions of core trends in the 2027 oncology drug industry. All analyses are based on core intelligence from the 2026 AACR and pipeline positioning signals from Boston Force, while also providing targeted long-term strategic recommendations to enable R&D/BD/investment professionals to strategically position themselves in the core sectors of 2027 and seize industry opportunities.

 5.3.1 Adjustments to the 2027 IND Filing Pathway—From “Single Technology” to “Cross-Modality Convergence”

 The core technological logic of the 2026 AACR is the “trinity of ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules.” This logic will directly reshape the IND filing pathways for oncology drug R&D in 2027—whereas past IND filings were primarily centered on single technologies and single targets, the 2027 IND landscape will usher in the era of **“cross-modal integration**. IND filings based solely on a single technology will face higher clinical development risks and stricter regulatory hurdles, while biomarker-guided, cross-modal combination IND filings will become the industry standard.

 The specific adjustments to the IND filing pathway are primarily reflected in three aspects:

1.  Cross-modal combinations will become the core focus of IND submissions: Clinical data on ADC+mRNA, ADC+small molecule, and nucleic acid drug+small molecule combinations disclosed at the 2026 AACR have already validated the clinical value of cross-modal integration.In 2027, the FDA and NMPA will further encourage cross-modal combination IND submissions, particularly those involving ADC-solid tumors combined with immunotherapy (IO) and small molecules, as well as mRNA tumor vaccines combined with ADCs. Such submissions will receive faster approval processing and greater policy support;
2.  Biomarker stratification has become a mandatory requirement for IND submissions:The paradigm shift in IO+X combination therapies at AACR 2026 centers on “biomarker-guided precision combination therapy.” This trend will extend to all areas of oncology drug R&D. In 2027, IND submissions that do not incorporate biomarker stratification design will face difficulties in gaining approval, particularly for cross-modal combination INDs, which must clearly identify predictive biomarkers for combination efficacy and biomarkers for safety assessment;
3.  Preclinical data requirements will place greater emphasis on “validation of synergistic mechanisms”: For 2027 IND submissions, the focus will shift from preclinical efficacy data for single agents to data validating the synergistic mechanisms of cross-modal combinations. For example, ADC+mRNA combinations must demonstrate the synergistic logic between ICD effects and T-cell activation, while ADC+small molecule combinations must validate the biological mechanisms of complementary strategies. IND submissions for combinations lacking a clear synergistic mechanism will be rejected.

 Recommendations for R&D Personnel: Pipeline design for 2027 must incorporate cross-modal combinations and biomarker stratification early on, with validation of synergistic mechanisms completed during the preclinical research phase to avoid obstacles in later-stage IND filings. Additionally, companies can draw inspiration from Boston-based firms’ collaborative R&D approaches—such as Vertex’s combination of RAS inhibitors with ADCs and Moderna’s combination of mRNA vaccines with ADCs—to enhance the success rate of IND filings.

 5.3.2 Reconstructing the 2027 Financing Roadshow Logic—From “Technology Storytelling” to “Data-Driven Value”

 Another key impact of the 2026 AACR conference is the restructuring of the logic behind financing roadshows in the oncology sector for 2027. In the past, financing roadshows often centered on “new technologies and new targets” as the core narrative; even without clinical data to support them, such pitches could still attract capital.However, capital in 2027 will become more rational. Using the industry data from the 2026 AACR as a benchmark, the core logic of funding roadshows will shift toward demonstrating value through authentic clinical data and the practical implementation capabilities of cross-modal fusion. Companies lacking clinical data support or the ability to integrate technologies will struggle to secure capital investment.

 The restructuring of fundraising pitch logic is primarily reflected in two aspects:

1.  Clinical data will become the core hard metric for fundraising: The 2026 AACR conference disclosed a wealth of early-stage clinical data, establishing clear technical standards for the industry—such as an ORR of over 35% for Phase 1 ADC solid tumors and a fivefold or greater increase in T-cell activation efficiency for mRNA cancer vaccines.In 2027 funding roadshows, companies must demonstrate clinical data that meets or exceeds industry standards, rather than merely highlighting technical platform advantages. Investors will place greater emphasis on the reproducibility and sustainability of clinical data;
2.  Technology integration capabilities become the core soft power for fundraising: The 2026 AACR conference established technology integration as a core industry trend. In 2027, capital will place greater emphasis on companies’ cross-modal technology integration capabilities—such as whether they can conduct joint R&D on ADCs with nucleic acid therapeutics and small molecules, or form complementary partnerships with leading firms like Boston Dynamics. Companies possessing such integration capabilities will secure higher valuations and more investment opportunities.

 Strategic recommendations for company founders and investors: On the corporate side, 2027 funding roadshows must center on clinical data and technology integration capabilities, using 2026 AACR industry data as a benchmark to demonstrate the advantages of their own data;For investors, when screening investment targets in 2027, prioritize companies backed by clinical data and possessing cross-modal technology integration capabilities, while avoiding targets with no data or those relying solely on narrative. Simultaneously, focus on core sectors such as ADC combined with nucleic acid therapeutics and small-molecule complementary therapies.

 5.3.3 Forecast of Core Trends in the 2027 Oncology Industry—Double-Digit Growth in ADCs, mRNA Vaccines Entering the Pivotal Trial Phase

 Based on key insights from the 2026 AACR conference and Boston Force’s pipeline analysis, the oncology drug industry will see two major trends in 2027: the ADC market will maintain double-digit growth, and mRNA oncology vaccines will officially enter the pivotal phase and commercialization stage. Meanwhile, small-molecule complementary strategies will become standard practice, and cross-modal integration will emerge as the core R&D direction for all leading companies.The following table provides precise forecasts of development trends, market size, and key signals from leading companies in core segments for 2027, offering a basis for long-term strategic planning.

 Table 5-3: Forecast of Development Trends in Core Oncology Segments for 2027 (Based on the 2026 AACR)

Core Segments	Key Development Trends in 2027	2027 Market Size Forecast	Key Technological Breakthroughs	Signals of Boston Dynamics’ Core Strategic Focus	Long-Term Strategy Recommendations (R&D/BD/Investment)
AACR 2026: ADCs for Solid Tumors	1. Full penetration into the “deep waters” of solid tumors, with low HER2 expression and Claudin18.2 emerging as core targets; 2. Cross-modal combination therapies becoming mainstream, with ADC + IO/small molecules/mRNA becoming the standard; 3. pH-sensitive/dual-responsive linkers becoming the design standard	Global market size exceeds $30 billion, with an annual growth rate of 25%+ (double-digit growth)	1. Clinical translation of dual-responsive linkers; 2. Balancing cytotoxicity and safety in smart payloads; 3. Technological breakthroughs in ADC penetration of solid tumors	Takeda: Focusing on Claudin18.2 ADC, exploring combinations with RAS inhibitors and molecular adhesives; Seattle Genetics: Focusing on B7-H3 ADC, advancing Phase 2 trials in combination with immunotherapy	1. R&D: Targeting Claudin18.2 and B7-H3, adopting novel linker designs; 2. BD: Engaging with Takeda and Seattle Genetics to explore joint development; 3. Investment: Prioritizing companies specializing in cross-modal combinations of ADCs for solid tumors
mRNA Cancer Vaccines	1. Officially entering the pivotal phase, with multiple products submitting BLA/NDA applications; 2. Complementary development of personalized and universal vaccines, with clear stratification of early/mid-stage and late-stage indications; 3. Epigenetic modifications becoming design standards, with non-LNP delivery systems achieving clinical translation	Global market size exceeds $5 billion, with an annual growth rate of over 80% (explosive growth during the pivotal phase)	1. Precise regulation of m6A epigenetic modifications; 2. Enhanced tumor penetration of non-LNP delivery systems; 3. AI-optimized algorithms for neoantigen screening	Moderna: Advancing BLA submissions for personalized vaccines and planning joint clinical trials with ADCs; BioNTech: Focusing on universal vaccines and advancing Phase 3 trials in combination with immunotherapy	1. R&D: Focus on epigenetic transcriptome modifications and non-LNP delivery systems; 2. BD: Engage with Moderna/BioNTech to explore delivery system and joint R&D collaborations; 3. Investment: Prioritize mRNA oncology vaccine companies in the pivotal phase
Small-Molecule Complementary Strategy	1. Becoming a standard component of ADC and nucleic acid drug R&D, with RAS inhibitors, molecular glues, and synthetic lethality emerging as the three core directions; 2. Cross-company joint R&D becoming the mainstream, with small-molecule companies forming deep partnerships with ADC and nucleic acid drug firms; 3. Broad-target small-molecule complementary drugs becoming a hot R&D trend	Global market size exceeds $8 billion, with an annual growth rate of over 35%	1. Preclinical R&D of broad-spectrum RAS inhibitors; 2. Design and development of dual-target molecular glues; 3. Optimization of synergistic mechanisms between synthetic lethality and ADCs	Vertex: Advancing combined clinical trials for KRAS G12D inhibitors and developing broad-spectrum RAS inhibitors; Takeda: Developing molecular glues targeting ADC resistance and exploring synergies with its own ADC pipeline	1. R&D: Focus on RAS inhibitors and molecular glues, with an emphasis on complementary strategies for ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics; 2. BD: Engage with Vertex and Takeda to explore collaborations on small-molecule complementary therapies; 3. Investment: Prioritize small-molecule companies collaborating with leading ADC and nucleic acid therapeutics firms
IO+X Combination Therapies	1. Completion of the paradigm shift from empirical to precision medicine, with biomarker-guided approaches becoming the design standard; 2. IO + ADC/mRNA emerges as the core combination strategy, with overcoming ICI resistance becoming a key R&D focus; 3. STING/LAG-3 emerge as next-generation IO targets	Global market size exceeds $60 billion, with an annual growth rate of 15%+	1. Clinical translation of STING agonists; 2. Triple-combination regimens of dual immunotherapy plus ADC; 3. Discovery of biomarkers for resistance reversal	Bristol-Myers Squibb: Advancing combinations of STING agonists with IO/ADC; Merck: Developing combinations of LAG-3 inhibitors with mRNA vaccines	1. R&D: Focus on STING/LAG-3 targets and incorporate biomarker stratification; 2. BD: Engage with Bristol Myers Squibb/Merck to explore IO + cross-modal combinations; 3. Investment: Prioritize investments in companies specializing in precision IO + X combinations

 Data Sources: 2026 AACR Core Session Reports, Boston Force 2025–2026 R&D Roadmap, BIO 2026 Oncology Industry Trends Report, Bloomberg Intelligence Forecasts.

 5.4 Key Takeaways from This Section

 The 30-day post-conference implementation plan serves as the core closed-loop for translating 2026 AACR intelligence into R&D, BD, and investment decisions. Its core value lies in transforming vast amounts of industry information from mere “read-and-forget” material into a foundational basis that directly drives business execution and guides long-term strategic planning. The three key components of this section form a comprehensive implementation framework spanning “intelligence curation,” “internal decision-making,” and “long-term forecasting”:

 The note conversion and tool template creation in Section 5.1 enable attendees to distill scattered intelligence into standardized decision-making tools within the first week after the conference, providing data support for subsequent actions;

 5.2, covering internal decision-making and external collaboration, enables participants to convert these tool templates into concrete internal recommendations and external engagement actions within 2–3 weeks after the event, achieving short-term implementation of intelligence;

 5.3’s long-term strategic impact analysis enables participants to forecast 2027 industry trends based on AACR intelligence by the fourth week post-conference, formulate long-term strategic plans, and seize industry opportunities.

 For the three core groups—R&D, Business Development (BD), and Investment—these 30 days of actionable steps not only maximize the value of the 2026 AACR experience but also represent an upgrade of their professional capabilities. By deeply integrating insights from the industry’s premier event with their own operations, they ensure their R&D approaches, collaboration strategies, and investment decisions remain aligned with the industry’s cutting-edge trends.This, in turn, represents the ultimate value of the 2026 AACR as an “intelligence hub” for oncology drug development: not only does it provide the industry with the latest technologies and data, but it also empowers every attendee to transform these insights into the core driving force for their own growth, ensuring that pipeline development, business development partnerships, and investment strategies all stay in sync with the industry’s rhythm to achieve efficient development.

 With this, we have fully dissected the end-to-end practical approach for the 2026 AACR—from pre-conference preparation and on-site discovery to post-conference implementation. Yet the true industry competition has only just begun—whoever can most swiftly translate AACR insights into concrete action will seize the initiative in the 2027 wave of oncology drug R&D.

6. Conclusion: The 2026 AACR – Biotech Conference San Diego – is not the finish line, but the starting point for accelerating your pipeline

 As the 2026 AACR in San Diego draws to a close, the buzz of the venue fades, and the posters in the exhibition area are taken down, this biotech conference—defined as the “intelligence hub” for oncology drug development—will not become a forgotten memory of attendance. Instead, it marks a new starting point for pipeline acceleration for all professionals in oncology R&D, business development, and investment.From the agenda hacking preparations three weeks before the conference, to mining intelligence from professional networks hidden within the crowd of 22,500 attendees, to the closed-loop implementation of insights into R&D, BD, and investment decisions within 30 days after the event—this handbook not only breaks down the methods for leveraging intelligence from a top-tier academic conference but also presents a core mindset tailored to the development of the oncology drug industry in 2026–2027.The most pivotal insight this conference offers the industry is not clinical data for a specific target or a technical breakthrough for a single drug, but the establishment of cross-modal thinking—when the technological boundaries of ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules are broken down, and convergence and synergy become the core logic of R&D. Deep specialization in a single therapeutic area can no longer address the complex demands of clinical practice; the value of interdisciplinary perspectives has truly become the core competitive barrier in pipeline development.

 All the data, signals, and trends from this year’s AACR ultimately point to one conclusion: oncology drug R&D has entered a new era of **“convergence as the key to success”**, and the 2026 AACR marks the official beginning of this era.Every piece of data we collect, every corporate signal we capture, and every piece of unpublished intelligence we uncover must ultimately be translated into concrete actions—such as pipeline design, partnership strategies, and investment decisions—so that the value of this conference continues to unfold throughout the subsequent R&D process.Industry progress has never been the result of a single company fighting alone, but rather the convergence of the collective wisdom of all practitioners—therefore, at this new starting point for pipeline acceleration, we sincerely invite all readers to join us in building an industry asset for 2026 oncology drug developers, allowing intelligence to flow, ideas to collide, and the path of pipeline R&D to become clearer and more efficient.

 6.1 Key Takeaway: The True Power of Interdisciplinary Perspectives

 The reason the 2026 AACR has become the most landmark event in oncology drug R&D over the past five years lies not in its attendance of over 22,500 participants or the volume of information from over 22,000 posters, but in the fact that it has, for the first time, clearly demonstrated to the industry that:The accumulation of single technologies alone can no longer break through the current bottlenecks in cancer treatment; the cross-modal integration of ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules is the core direction for oncology drug R&D in 2026–2027.The underlying logic supporting this convergence is precisely the interdisciplinary perspective—stepping outside one’s own specialized technical domain, centering on clinical needs, and breaking down R&D barriers across different technological fields. This allows the targeted killing of ADCs, the immune activation of nucleic acid therapeutics, and the precise complementary roles of small molecules to form an organic whole. This is also the core essence of the “Trinity” practical approach consistently emphasized in this handbook.The true power of an interdisciplinary perspective has never been about simple drug combinations, but rather the complete restructuring of the entire chain—from R&D design and clinical implementation to the industrial ecosystem—ensuring that the strengths of each technology are maximized and the “unmet needs” of each are precisely addressed.

 The power of an interdisciplinary perspective is first manifested in the restructuring of R&D logic, shifting the focus from “target-driven” to “clinical-need-driven.” In ADC development for solid tumors at AACR 2026, we will no longer merely focus on binding efficiency for targets such as HER2 and Claudin18.2, but will instead consider: How can the ICD effect of mRNA tumor vaccines enhance the targeted killing of ADCs?How can we improve ADC tumor penetration by optimizing the microenvironment with RAS inhibitors? How can we address ADC target loss resistance through molecular adhesives? Similarly, in the development of mRNA tumor vaccines, we no longer focus solely on neoantigen screening and delivery efficiency; instead, we explore: how can we leverage the targeting capabilities of ADCs to achieve precise delivery of vaccines into the tumor microenvironment?How can the synergistic effects of synthetic lethal agents be leveraged to enhance T-cell activation by vaccines? This cross-modal R&D approach shifts technical design away from single-domain metrics toward addressing core clinical needs—sustained responses in solid tumors, reduced resistance, and improved safety—making R&D more targeted and clinically relevant.

 The power of interdisciplinary perspectives is further evident in the optimization of clinical development pathways, shifting clinical research from “empirical trial and error” to “precision-driven design.” The paradigm shift in IO+X combination therapies at this year’s AACR conference centers on biomarker-guided precision combination, and this logic has been extended to all cross-modal clinical development efforts.Whether it is the sequential administration design of ADC+mRNA or patient stratification for ADC+RAS inhibitors, these approaches are no longer simple drug combinations but rather precise pairings based on biological mechanisms—for example, first administering an ADC to induce immunogenic cell death, followed by an mRNA tumor vaccine to activate specific T cells. Behind this sequential design lies a deep understanding of the mechanisms of action in both technological fields, which is a direct manifestation of an interdisciplinary perspective.This precision-driven clinical design significantly reduces the costs of clinical trial trial-and-error and increases the success rate of clinical research. This is the core reason why the IND filing pathway in 2027 will shift toward cross-modal integration.

 The power of interdisciplinary perspectives ultimately manifests in the synergistic upgrading of the industrial ecosystem, shifting industry competition from “technological competition among individual companies” to “synergistic competition within the industrial ecosystem.”At this year’s AACR conference, every key strategic move by Boston Dynamics underscored cross-company and cross-technology collaboration: joint R&D between Moderna and ADC companies, technological complementarity between Vertex and nucleic acid drug firms, and internal synergy within Takeda’s ADC pipeline with small-molecule counterparts. These moves demonstrate that future oncology drug development will no longer rely on a single company dominating through a solitary technology platform, but rather require collaborative cooperation across the entire industrial chain.—ADC companies require the immune activation technologies of nucleic acid drug firms; nucleic acid drug firms need the microenvironment optimization capabilities of small-molecule companies; and small-molecule companies require the clinical translation resources of leading firms. This synergy within the industrial ecosystem allows each company to deepen its expertise in its own areas of strength while leveraging the technological strengths of other companies to address its own weaknesses, ultimately enhancing R&D efficiency across the entire industry.

 In contrast, the current misconception of simply amassing data at conferences and in R&D persists. Many practitioners equate the value of AACR with collecting more target data and clinical results, yet overlook the underlying technical logic and potential for integration behind the data. Ultimately, this turns massive amounts of data into “information garbage” that cannot be put into practice.It is precisely this interdisciplinary perspective that unlocks the value of this data—it allows us to identify integration points between ADC linker designs and mRNA vaccine delivery systems; to discern the immune activation mechanisms underlying ADC-mRNA tumor vaccine combinations from post-translational modification data; and to discover potential solutions to core pain points in ADCs and nucleic acid therapeutics through small-molecule complementation data.This shift in mindset—from “data collection” to “data interpretation” and then to “data integration”—is the most valuable legacy the 2026 AACR conference has left the industry, and it is where the true power of an interdisciplinary perspective lies.

 Ultimately, in oncology drug R&D from 2026 to 2027, success will no longer depend on the depth of a single technology, but rather on the breadth of interdisciplinary expertise and the depth of integration.Whoever can take the lead in establishing cross-modal thinking, step outside their own technical lane, and strategically build their pipeline from an interdisciplinary perspective will gain a competitive edge in this race to accelerate pipeline development. The 2026 AACR serves as the starting point for this shift in mindset—and the starting point for all industry professionals to accelerate their pipelines.

 6.2 Call for Collaboration: Building Industry Assets Together

 Oncology drug R&D is a long-term endeavor—a race against time and a battle against disease—and has never been a solitary struggle for any single company or individual. As the global intelligence hub for oncology drug R&D, the 2026 AACR conference harbors a wealth of undisclosed “hidden intelligence”——perhaps an offhand mention of pipeline adjustments by a Boston-based R&D lead at a Networking Hub, or private insights into ADC linker designs shared by researchers during a Poster Session, or an independent assessment of future mRNA cancer vaccine development directions offered by a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) at a local San Diego bar, or unpublished early-stage R&D data disclosed by small and medium-sized innovative pharmaceutical companies.This intelligence cannot appear in formal reports or be included in official abstract collections, yet it holds immense practical value, providing crucial insights for pipeline development, business development partnerships, and investment decisions.

 The value of this hidden intelligence can only be fully realized through circulation and sharing within the industry.Therefore, we cordially invite all oncology drug R&D, BD, and investment professionals reading this handbook to share the hidden intelligence you captured at the 2026 AACR conference in the comments section. Let’s transform this handbook from a static practical guide into a dynamic, living community for 2026 oncology drug developers, and together build the industry’s core intelligence asset.

 The content you can share includes, but is not limited to:

•  Corporate insights: Pipeline strategies, collaboration intentions, and R&D bottlenecks revealed by industry leaders such as Boston Dynamics (Moderna, Vertex, Takeda) and others during informal on-site discussions; unpublished early-stage R&D data and technological breakthroughs from small and medium-sized innovative pharmaceutical companies;
•  Technical Details: Technical design details, clinical data subgroup analyses, and explorations of resistance mechanisms not disclosed in posters or presentations across key therapeutic areas at AACR 2026, including ADCs for solid tumors, mRNA cancer vaccines, and small-molecule ligands;
• Industry Trend Analysis: Independent insights from KOLs and industry veterans on the direction of oncology drug R&D for 2026–2027, as well as expert advice on cross-modal integration, target selection, and clinical trial design;
•  Practical Experience Sharing: Your techniques for gathering intelligence at the 2026 AACR conference, experiences with business development (BD) matchmaking, strategies for managing your conference schedule, and practical insights on implementing post-conference intelligence;
•  Collaboration Opportunity Matching: Based on intelligence gathered at this year’s AACR, your company’s collaboration needs in areas such as ADCs, nucleic acid therapeutics, and small molecules; directions for technological complementarity; and the types of companies and R&D areas you wish to connect with.

 We will compile, filter, and categorize all the insights and practical experiences shared by participants, continuously updating this handbook while crediting sources and contributors. This will transform the handbook into a dynamically updated industry intelligence repository—enabling both future attendees and industry peers who were unable to attend to access high-value, actionable insights;Whether it’s pipeline design for R&D personnel, partnership outreach for business development professionals, or target screening for investors, everyone can find valuable references here.

 At the same time, this vibrant community will serve as a platform for industry peers to connect: here, you can discuss technical issues with professionals in the same field, connect with companies across the industry chain to explore collaboration opportunities, and exchange R&D ideas with key opinion leaders (KOLs), fostering the flow of intelligence, sparking intellectual exchanges, and facilitating collaboration.We believe that individual intelligence-gathering capabilities pale in comparison to the collective wisdom of the industry. When the practical experience and tacit knowledge of all practitioners converge, they will form the core driving force behind the progress of the entire oncology drug R&D sector.

 The curtain has fallen on the 2026 AACR, but the journey of oncology drug R&D never stops—and your pipeline acceleration journey has only just begun. Let us take this conference as our starting point, with cross-modal thinking at our core and industry collaboration as our bond, to work together diligently and in synergy on the path of oncology drug R&D. Let us bring more innovative drugs to market sooner, offering greater hope for treatment to cancer patients.

 This is the ultimate significance the 2026 AACR has left us, and it is the shared mission of all oncology drug developers.