Bridging the Translational Gap in Cancer Nanotechnology

The 2019 Cancer Nanotechnology Gordon Research Conference (GRC) provides a unique forum where scientists at every stage of their career can share unpublished, innovative cancer research made possible by the use of nanotechnology. Held biennially since 2011, the 2019 Cancer Nanotechnology GRC is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and important meetings in the field. Following the success of the first student-led Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) in 2017, the second GRS will be held over the weekend preceding the 2019 Cancer Nanotechnology GRC on June 23-28, 2019 at the same location.

Nanotechnology holds great promise for cancer therapy, diagnostics, and imaging, but bridging the translational gap presents a complex challenge. Most nanomedicine studies are concentrated in cancer. Due to the presence of leaky vasculature and impaired lymphatic drainage in solid tumors, nanoparticles selectively accumulate in the tumor via the mechanism of the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. Thus, nanoparticles are uniquely suitable for delivering diagnostic and/or imaging agents, chemotherapeutics, oligonucleotides and immune regulators to improve the therapeutic index of these compounds.

Nanoparticles also offer an amplification mechanism for bioanalytical detection and sensor devices for cancer biomarkers. It is not surprising that the number of publications in cancer nanotechnology had increased rapidly to about 700 per year. The conference will bring together a lively group of exceptional scientists in order to: (i) share cutting-edge research in cancer nanotechnology by experts representing the whole spectrum of life sciences, exact science, engineering and medicine; (ii) foster discussion, exchange of ideas, and promote collaborations and (iii) enhance the training and development of young scientists while promoting diversity. By bringing together individuals spanning diverse disciplines from cancer biology to chemical engineering, we will gain new insights for harnessing nanotechnology in the fight against cancer. A high priority of the Cancer Nanotechnology GRC and GRS is to increase the diversity of participants. Towards this goal, funds are requested for travel and registration support of under-represented speakers.