Highlights from the 17th Japan Bioanalysis Forum Symposium

The 17th Japan Bioanalysis Forum Symposium was held in Himeji, Japan, in March 2026. Under the theme "Unlock Scientific Potential: Future of Bioanalytical Expert," the symposium provided a comprehensive forum to share and discuss the latest scientific, technological, and regulatory developments in bioanalysis essential for drug development.The scientific program comprised 12 sessions including 35 oral presentations and 2 panel discussions, 38 general poster presentations, and 12 discussion group poster sessions. The topics spanned a broad range of disciplines, including implementation of ICH M10 and data integrity requirements, bioanalysis of oligonucleotides, gene and cell therapies, antibody-drug conjugates, immunogenicity assessment, biomarker analysis, and advances in LC-MS/MS and ligand‑binding assays. In addition, emerging trends such as artificial intelligence and automation in bioanalytical workflows were actively discussed. The newly introduced sessions for junior bioanalysts and Casual Follow-Up Sessions fostered open dialogue and received particularly strong engagement from the participants. The poster sessions by the individuals and by the discussion groups facilitated lively scientific exchange, further enhanced by the record number of company exhibits. Overall, the symposium successfully highlighted the current challenges and future directions in bioanalysis, reinforcing the critical role of bioanalytical experts in advancing drug development and regulatory science.