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Gathering of Leaders at the Microbes, Genes & Cancer Symposium

On March 2-3, Tampa showcased a remarkable confluence of expertise at the "Microbes, Genes & Cancer" symposium, hosted by the TGH Cancer Institute, USF Health Morsani College of Medicine, and the Global Virus Network (GVN). This prestigious event attracted top minds in oncology, virology, and immunology to discuss recent advancements in cancer research.

Located at the USF Morsani College of Medicine, at the heart of Tampa's thriving medical district, the symposium served as a platform for pioneering discussions on how microbes, genetic factors, and immune responses converge to influence cancer development and treatment. Designed for established researchers and early-career scientists alike, the symposium fostered interdisciplinary collaboration aimed at shaping future research pathways and clinical practices.

This gathering was part of International Science Innovation Week, a representation of the collaborative spirit between TGH Cancer Institute, GVN, and USF Health’s Institute for Translational Virology and Innovation. This week included not only the symposium but also the upcoming Global Virus Network Annual Scientific Meeting.

Dr. Eduardo M. Sotomayor, the executive director of the TGH Cancer Institute, articulated the significance of the symposium, indicating how such high-level collaboration is vital for advancing scientific innovation within academic medicine. Over the past five years, the TGH Institute has emerged as a key player in cancer research, facilitating dialogue among world-renowned scientists to advance understanding and treatment of cancer, thereby benefitting patients.

A special highlight of this summit was the commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Interleukin-2’s discovery, a groundbreaking advancement that laid the foundation for modern cancer immunotherapy. This pivotal histological milestone catalyzed enhancements in understanding T cells and cytokines used in cancer therapy, leading to significant developments in outcomes for patients. The original research by Dr. Robert Gallo in the mid-1970s has revolutionized the field, making him a respected authority on HIV and retroviral studies.

A dedicated session focused on IL-2 featured leading scientists, including:

• - Dr. Carl June from the University of Pennsylvania, a pioneer of CAR T-cell therapy;
• - Dr. Steven Rosenberg, a distinguished figure in T-cell cancer immunotherapy;
• - Dr. Drew Pardoll from Johns Hopkins University, an expert in immune checkpoint research;
• - Dr. Warren Leonard, a senior investigator at the National Institutes of Health;
• - Dr. Rafi Ahmed, recognized as a leading T-cell immunologist.

Dr. Sotomayor remarked on IL-2’s transformative effect in immunology, noting its essential role in expanding human T cell research and its impact on therapeutic strategies targeting blood cancers through innovative treatments such as CAR T therapy.

Throughout the symposium, various sessions explored diverse topics, including the implications of viruses and bacteria on cancer risk, chronic inflammation's role in tumor progression, and the interactions between the microbiome and cancer biology. Presentations focused on subjects such as:

• - HPV-related cancers and the crucial need for enhanced vaccination and screening programs as incidence increases among specific populations.
• - Hepatitis-related liver cancer research delving into chronic viral infections and altered gene pathways, which might enable earlier detection and targeted interventions.
• - Insights into how HIV-related immune dysregulation may impact long-term cancer risks and other comorbidities.
• - The active participation of the microbiome in tumor biology and its influence on therapy outcomes.

This symposium not only underscored Tampa General Hospital and USF Health's commitment to pioneering cancer research but also their dedication to translating scientific insights into clinical practices that optimize cancer care. It serves as a testament to the significant strides being made in understanding and combating cancer to reduce the burden of this global health challenge.

For more details and to access the full agenda for the Microbes, Genes & Cancer event, visit TGH Cancer Institute Meeting — Global Virus Network.

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