Crown Bioscience, a global contract research organization (CRO) and a subsidiary of JSR Life Sciences, has announced the extension of its exclusive partnership with NEXT Oncology, a global leader in Phase I oncology clinical trials.

The collaboration will continue to combine Crown Bioscience’s expertise in developing clinically relevant cancer models with NEXT Oncology’s expansive clinical trial network.

This extended agreement reinforces Crown Bioscience’s exclusive rights to access and provide services using patient-derived samples collected through NEXT Oncology’s international sites. The samples will support the development of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) and organoid models—tools increasingly critical for translational oncology research and drug development.

“We are thrilled to continue our exclusive partnership with NEXT Oncology,” said John Gu, CEO of Crown Bioscience.

“NEXT Oncology is globally recognized for its pioneering work in Phase I clinical oncology trials. Extending this partnership allows us to broaden our portfolio and strengthen our position as a leader in translational oncology platforms and integrated solutions. Our combined expertise and global reach will ensure rapid and scalable access to groundbreaking cancer models for our biopharma partners.”

NEXT Oncology operates one of the largest global Phase 1 oncology networks, with a mission to accelerate the development of promising new therapies by providing early access to investigational cancer drugs. The company’s CEO, Dr Anthony Tolcher, emphasized the importance of the ongoing relationship with Crown Bioscience.

“NEXT Oncology is excited to continue our strong partnership with Crown Bioscience,” said Tolcher.

“Together, we will continue to develop new and highly relevant patient models that Crown’s biopharma partners can utilize to advance their translational oncology programs. Our combined efforts continue to support both companies’ missions to help cancer patients receive the most advanced medicines possible.”

The extended collaboration reflects a broader trend toward using advanced preclinical models—such as PDX and organoids—to better predict clinical outcomes, de-risk early-stage research, and streamline the path to first-in-human studies. Crown Bioscience has built one of the industry’s most comprehensive libraries of cancer models, enabling its partners to gain deeper insights into drug efficacy, resistance, and personalized treatment strategies.

Both companies see the renewal of the agreement as a reaffirmation of their shared goal: improving patient outcomes by supporting the development of next-generation oncology therapeutics.