Researchers presented pooled data at ASH showing minimal residual disease (MRD) negativity correlates with longer overall survival in acute myeloid leukemia (AML), strengthening the case for MRD as a surrogate endpoint. The analysis, described as the largest prospective pooled MRD dataset in AML to date, argued that flow cytometry–based MRD prior to consolidation may reasonably predict clinical benefit and could speed drug development through accelerated pathways. Separately, Natera acquired Foresight Diagnostics to integrate PhasED-Seq phased-variant technology into its Signatera MRD platform. Natera said the deal will lift MRD sensitivity, expand into lymphoma, and accelerate clinical and commercial MRD adoption. Clarification: MRD refers to detectable cancer cells remaining after treatment; surrogate endpoints use intermediate biomarkers to predict long-term clinical outcomes.