Outsmarting Cancer, Impacting lives

As part of the Inside the Synergy Projects 2026 series, this edition highlights two collaborative projects that aim to improve how cancer is detected. From helping surgeons distinguish tumour tissue more accurately to revealing the earliest changes that lead to hereditary breast cancer, both collaborations seek to support better decisions throughout the patient journey.

Prof. dr. Henk Verheul, Chair of Oncode’s Clinical Advisory Board, reflects on the role of the Clinical Proof-of-Concept programme in helping researchers validate promising cancer discoveries in patients earlier and with a clearer view of clinical need.

Two collaborative projects supported through the Oncode Synergy Projects 2026 programme are exploring why some immune cells are exceptionally effective at fighting cancer while others lose their ability to respond. Together, they could help shape the next generation of cancer immunotherapies.