Childhood cancers are believed to be rooted in aberrant development, a notion supported by their typically low mutational burden, the high prevalence of single (often epigenetic) driver events, and their occurrence during narrow developmental periods. Yet the precise origins of many childhood cancers, as well as the exact molecular states that were prone to malignant transformation upon oncogenic insult, remain elusive. At the intersection of developmental biology, oncology, and translational research, this BioMed conference will explore how developmental pathways contribute to tumour initiation, progression, tumour cell plasticity and response to therapy.
We will bring together a multidisciplinary group of scientists and clinicians to discuss the latest advances in understanding the cellular and molecular origins of childhood tumours, the development of faithful preclinical models, and the identification of novel therapeutic strategies. The programme will include sessions on stem cell-based modelling, transgenic and organoid systems, tumour heterogeneity and evolution, and new approaches to targeting childhood cancers — from epigenetic and metabolic interventions to immunotherapies.
By bridging fundamental and translational science, this meeting aims to foster new insights into the developmental underpinnings of childhood cancers and promote collaborative approaches to tackling one of the most challenging areas in oncology. We welcome researchers across disciplines who are interested in the convergence of development and cancer biology, with the shared goal of improving outcomes for children affected by cancer.
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IRB Barcelona Biomed Conferences
