Researchers and Clinicians to Gather for LRF’s 7th Annual MCLC Scientific Workshop this Week in Atlanta

Bruce Cheson, MD, FACP, Chair-elect of LRF's Scientific Advisory Board (SAB), looks forward to the event each year as workshop participants are able to gain knowledge and understanding of the current state of Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL) research and learn about progress made in the prior year. "Although many of the investigators collaborate, it is useful to see what the others are doing and to have the opportunity to have a face-to-face discussion," Dr. Cheson said. "This may lead to further collaborations and stimulation of new ideas."

This year’s workshop will highlight new topics like epigenetic regulation, MCL pathogenesis and novel treatment approaches, said Michael Williams, MD, MCLC Executive Committee Chair. "The presentations continue to increase in the quality and breadth of research, with mature data in many projects that will inform the next steps in MCL investigation," he said. This year, participants will have the opportunity to hear keynote speaker, Carlo Croce, MD, from The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center, discuss MicroRNAs in Lymphoma and CLL.

"Together we are able to go forward in preventing cancer and in lessening the burden of this disease throughout the world, by advancing our knowledge in etiology, diagnosis and treatment," said Diane Blum, LRF's CEO, who will be attending the workshop for the first time in her new position.

Since the MCLC's establishment in 2005, the MCLC has funded over $23 million in grants, hosted six workshops and most recently published the findings of last year's workshop in the journal Leukemia & Lymphoma. "The consortium has had the opportunity to mature over the years and the research quality is constantly improving," said Dr. Cheson.

The pace of discovery and its application to cancer patients continues to advance rapidly, and the Lymphoma Research Foundation is looking forward to the progress it will make in the next few years. This Workshop will truly give the opportunity for each participant to exchange information and form collaborations with colleagues and "stimulate new thinking and action," said Diane Blum.

March 22, 2010