UCLA Researchers Present Advances in Cancer Care at AACR

Studies highlight progress in targeted therapies, immunology, early detection, and treatment strategies.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:02am

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A glowing, neon outline of a microscopic cancer cell against a dark background, conceptually representing the latest breakthroughs in cancer research presented by UCLA scientists.UCLA researchers showcase cutting-edge advances in cancer detection, treatment, and immunotherapy at the AACR conference.Los Angeles Today

Physicians and scientists from the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center will present new research at the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) Annual Meeting, showcasing breakthroughs in cancer care across a range of tumor types. The studies span preclinical discoveries and clinical trial results, offering insights into overcoming drug resistance, enhancing immune responses, and improving outcomes for patients with difficult-to-treat cancers.

Why it matters

The AACR conference is a premier annual event for cancer researchers and clinicians to share the latest advancements in the field. UCLA's strong presence and diverse array of studies demonstrate the institution's leadership in driving innovation and improving cancer treatment and detection.

The details

The UCLA research spans several key areas, including targeted therapies, cancer immunology, and early detection. Highlights include a promising approach for overcoming drug resistance in colorectal cancer, the impact of COVID-19 on breast cancer recurrence, and strategies to boost immune responses in pancreatic cancer.

  • The AACR Annual Meeting will take place from April 19-23, 2026.
  • The UCLA studies will be presented at various sessions throughout the conference.

The players

Joann Elmore

Professor of medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and of health policy and management at the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health.

Aditya Bardia

Director of the Breast Oncology Program and Translational Research Integration at the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Antoni Ribas

Professor of medicine and director of the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center's Tumor Immunology & Immunotherapy Program.

Neil A. O'Brien

Adjunct professor of medicine at UCLA.

Lisa Zhang

Hematology/oncology fellow at UCLA.

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What they’re saying

“These studies highlight the breadth of cancer research happening at UCLA, from bench to bedside. Our researchers are making significant strides in developing more effective and personalized treatments, as well as improving early detection and monitoring of this devastating disease.”

— Joann Elmore, Professor of medicine

What’s next

The UCLA studies presented at AACR will help inform future clinical trials and research directions, with the ultimate goal of improving cancer outcomes for patients.

The takeaway

UCLA's strong presence at the AACR conference underscores the institution's commitment to driving innovation in cancer care and translating scientific discoveries into real-world advancements that benefit patients.