Commentary on the IV São Paulo Research Conference: Cancer Today: from molecular biology to treatment, São Paulo, SP, Brazil, November 10-12, 2005

Abstract

This symposium focused on basic aspects of molecular mechanisms of cancer cell survival and also on epidemiological and immunological factors, which would provide for the development of new treatments and other modalities of intervention. It was an outstanding symposium attesting to the excellence of oncological sciences in Brazil and to their invaluable contribution to the international efforts directed towards the control of cancer. Through the participation of several international leaders in oncology the symposium also provided evidence for how well integrated Brazilian science is with the most avant-garde scientific activities in Europe and in the US. Finally, the active participation of a large number of young scientists and graduate students held an irrefutable promise for the brilliant future of the Community of Brazilian scientists devoted to studies of the molecular biology and treatment of cancer.Several institutions from São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and other parts of the country were represented through the presentation of lectures and posters. Undoubtedly, the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, the associated Hospital do Câncer A.C. Camargo in São Paulo, and the Instituto Nacional do Câncer (INCa) in Rio de Janeiro were "first among equals" together with other centers in the quality of their contributions. The diversified expertise of participants coming from excellent institutions in different parts of Brazil provided the opportunity for lively discussions stemming from consideration of the role of epigenetic and other basic molecular mechanisms of regulation of the cancer cell.