[The development and main achievements of clinical trials for anti-cancer investigational new drug in the past 60 years in China (1960-2020)].

Medical oncology is a subject characterized by drug therapy. Continuous research and development (R&D) of high-efficiency and low-toxic anti-cancer drugs is the premise of the development of medical oncology. Clinical trials play an indispensable role in the process from drug R&D to application, which determines the success or failure of a new drug. The clinical trials for anti-cancer investigational new drug (IND) in China began in 1960, and have developed rapidly since 2008. With the guidance and support of national policies, as well as involved by all aspects of the society, the R&D of anti-cancer drugs in China has changed from imitation to innovation. China innovative anti-cancer drugs have been widely recognized in the world, and more and more new domestic anti-cancer drugs have been used in clinical practice, bringing benefit to Chinese cancer patients. This article reviews the development of the clinical trials for anti-cancer IND in China from 1960 to 2020, and the main achievements having been made in the past 60 years. A thorough understanding of this history will help us keep in mind the mission and grasp the direction, as to make more achievements when implementing the strategy of "Healthy China" .