On May 27 and 28, Colorado State University conducted a joint symposium with the University of Colorado and Japan’s National Institute of Radiological Sciences to look at ways to further develop photon and carbon ion radiation therapy approaches. The symposium, “From Cancer biology to Photon and Carbon Ion Radiation Therapy,” focused particularly on potential collaborative research programs.
“The key goals of the symposium where to share information, identify critical gaps in knowledge, and develop collaborative projects,” said Dr. Jac Nickoloff, Head of the Department of Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences and one the symposium’s organizers. “This was an opportunity to not only learn from each other, but to develop a better understanding of how we can work together to advance cancer therapy with more effective treatments. We are particularly interested in carbon ion radiotherapy and the development of research, training, and educational opportunities with our partners in Japan.”
Dr. Tony Frank, President of Colorado State University, addressed attendees and noted that no single university or country can meet the challenges that cancer presents, and stronger partnerships are essential to moving forward. Dr. Yoshiharu Yonekura, President of NIRS, said the joint symposium would help to expand international cooperation and emphasize the role of mutual collaboration as countries and institutions work together to cure cancer.
During the two-day symposium, attendees shared 15, 20-minute presentations on a variety of topics in high and low LET radiation, clinical cancer biology, and challenges and opportunities with cell and animal models. Keynote speakers discussed the evolution of charged particles, carbon ion radiotherapy, and mouse genome instability and cancer.
“We are entering a new era in charged particle therapy,” said Dr. Eleanor Blakely, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, in her keynote address. “Scientific advances in research with charged particles have been significant during the past four decades, but as more information is obtained, further questions arise. Advancement in veterinary radiation oncology may help us answer some of these questions while benefiting humans and their companion animals.”
