The symposium organizing committee is pleased to invite you to attend the virtual UCMR Infection and Cancer Symposium on 24 August.

2021.07.06 | Magnus Kræpping Andersen

Infections due to certain viruses, bacteria, and parasites are strong risk factors for the development of specific cancers. Approximately 20% of cancers worldwide are attributed to infections. Conversely, a subset of pathogens preferentially lyse tumor cells, leading to tumor regression and improved anti-tumor immunity. In addition, the intestinal microbiota influences our response to anti-cancer therapy. The Umeå Centre for Microbial Research (UCMR) Infection and Cancer Symposium aims to present and discuss these aspects of the complex relation between microbes and cancer. 

International experts will present concepts on principles by which viruses and bacteria subvert the cellular micro-environment to cause cancer. Speakers will address a) mechanisms of malignant transformation by DNA and RNA viruses, b) mechanisms by which chronic and latent bacterial infections contribute to cancer initiation and progression, c) key issues related to pro-carcinogenic viruses/bacteria and immune defense, and d) how these processes can be prevented by prophylactic vaccination. Participants will have an opportunity to present their research during poster and, if selected, oral presentations and to meet other researchers within the field.

To see the speaker program and to register at no cost for the virtual symposium, go to  www.ucmrinca2021.se

This symposium is also part of a PhD course sponsored by the National Doctoral Programme in Infection and Antibiotics (NDPIA). The course includes introductory lectures and discussions prior to the symposium. After the symposium, students critically assess the literature to identify key knowledge gaps on infection and cancer and then design, present and discuss hypothesis-driven experiments to address these issues. Students also present their own research for discussion. For the course schedule and registration details, click this link to the NDPIA course site.