How translational modeling in oncology needs to get the mechanism just right.

Translational model-based approaches have played a role in increasing success in the development of novel anticancer treatments. However, despite this, significant translational uncertainty remains from animal models to patients. Optimization of dose and scheduling (regimen) of drugs to maximize the therapeutic utility (maximize efficacy while avoiding limiting toxicities) is still predominately driven by clinical investigations. Here, we argue that utilizing pragmatic mechanism-based translational modeling of nonclinical data can further inform this optimization. Consequently, a prototype model is demonstrated that addresses the required fundamental mechanisms.