First-in-human (FIH) oncology development presents high-impact strategic and operational challenges for sponsors transitioning from preclinical research to early clinical testing.
Early decisions made in FIH trials—around dose strategy, safety oversight, regulatory positioning, and trial design—often have long-term consequences that are difficult to reverse later in development. The focus is shifting from rapid execution alone to deliberate, risk-informed early-phase planning that preserves flexibility, strengthens regulatory confidence, and supports sustainable program progression.