Early Signals at ASCO 2026 | Creating a New Therapeutic Class: The Promise of Direct MYC Inhibition

What if one of cancer's most important drivers was no longer considered "undruggable"?

For decades, MYC has remained one of oncology's most elusive targets—a transcription factor implicated in the majority of human cancers yet notoriously difficult to inhibit with small molecules. Today, advances in structural biology, medicinal chemistry and translational science are challenging that assumption.

In this episode of The Syneos Health Podcast: Early Signals, Wael Harb, MD, Head of R&D and Scientific Strategy in Oncology at Syneos Health sits down with Nick Glover, CEO of MycRx, to discuss the company's efforts to develop a direct small-molecule MYC inhibitor. Together, they explore the science behind MYC biology, the challenges of targeting transcription factors, how real-world data is helping identify MYC-driven tumors and what it takes to advance a first-in-class oncology program from discovery toward the clinic.

The conversation also examines the realities of modern biotech leadership—from designing efficient global development strategies to balancing scientific innovation with the business of drug development.

Topics include:

• Why MYC has long been considered "undruggable"
• The scientific breakthroughs enabling direct MYC inhibition
• Identifying patient populations most likely to benefit
• Balancing efficacy and tolerability when targeting MYC
• Global strategies for accelerating early-phase oncology development
• Lessons for biotech leaders developing novel mechanisms of action

The views expressed in this podcast belong solely to the speakers and do not represent those of their organization.