Invited Speakers
I. Genomics and Proteomics in the Discovery of Novel Biomarkers and Therapies |
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This is an area of extensive research with the goal of identifying specific biomarkers for early detection of ovarian cancer. Dr. Patrick Brown is a world leader in this area and among other contributions has developed models to study the natural history of serous ovarian cancer in BRCA1 carriers to guide the rational design of an early detection strategy. Dr. David Huntsman is a pathologist actively involved in the International Cancer Genome Consortium (ICGC) who will report on his study of the genome in at least 50 ovarian tumors. This international effort is aimed at identifying genomic changes in ovarian cancers that may lead us to a more relevant classification of tumors and to novel biomarkers. Dr. Thomas Kislinger is studying the proteome of ovarian cancer cells with the aim of defining molecular signatures and potential early, pre-clinical markers of disease. Additional presentations relevant to this field will be selected from the submitted abstracts. The symposium will be followed by a reception and poster session with ample time for discussion of related topics. |
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II. Etiology and Prevention - Cells of Origin and Stem Cells - Susceptibility and Risk Factors |
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The ultimate goal of the ovarian cancer research community is prevention. In order to address that goal, discovering and understanding early molecular events, genetic predispositions and epigenetic influences and the role of stem cells in tumorigenesis and tumor behaviour are fundamental. In Symposium II, Drs. Crum, Narod and Dick, all luminaries in their respective areas, will present the most current data and novel concepts that will inform and stimulate the participants and lead us to a fruitful discussion period. |
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III. Models of Ovarian Cancer for Mechanistic and Therapeutic Studies |
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Ovarian cancer is a challenging disease to understand, partly due to the difficulty in generating models of this disease. In order to develop novel and efficacious treatment strategies, well-designed models of ovarian cancer are imperative. Careful modeling of ovarian cancer will allow us to develop translational studies that can take our research from the bench to the bedside. In Symposium III, Drs. Connolly, Petrik, and Kerbel will present their insights into the use of animal models of ovarian cancer and how information from these models can translate to effective therapies. The information in this symposium will appeal to basic and clinical scientists alike. |
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IV. Targeted Therapies and Current and Emerging Clinical Trials |
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Chaired by Drs. Amit Oza and Brad Nelson, both prominent Canadian ovarian cancer investigators who will bring a depth of expertise and insight into the issues, this symposium will explore many aspects of bringing molecular biology to clinical therapeutics, “the bench to the bedside”. We are honoured to welcome an auspicious faculty including Dr. Elise Kohn of the NCI/NIH, Bethesda whose work in markers for early detection, identification of molecular therapeutic targets and other translational themes has heavily influenced ovarian cancer research in North America and beyond. Professor Alan Ashworth, a pioneer in discovery and characterisation of the BrCa gene itself, has subsequently elucidated the mechanism by which PARP inhibitors, possibly the most significant advance in ovarian cancer treatment since platinum chemotherapy, are tumoricidal in BrCa related cancers and is leading the exploration of the broad application of these agents in cancer therapy. Dr. Janet Dancey has recently returned from NIH to her native Canada to take on joint roles in translational science at NCIC and OICR. In these roles, she will facilitate the translation of discoveries from laboratory to clinic by providing infrastructure and resources to support trials evaluating markers for early diagnosis, prognosis, and predication of benefit to help develop better treatments for cancer patients. |
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