Designed to promote interaction among participants, the ASCO-NCI-EORTC Annual Meeting on Molecular Markers in Cancer, to be held October 18-20 in Hollywood, Florida, will bring together clinicians, pathologists, statisticians, researchers in basic and translational science, and industry representatives-the multidisciplinary audience needed to put emerging science into practice. The educational content has something for everyone, according to David R. Gandara, MD, Chair of the Organizing Committee. "For practicing oncologists, many of the laboratory findings about molecular markers are being put right into their daily clinic. The basic scientist will learn about the latest technology and data, and the translational researcher will learn how to apply those new findings."

Dr. Gandara noted that the Organizing Committee placed particular emphasis on practical, clinical applications. "Clinicians will learn how to incorporate a personalized approach to biomarker use, to know how to treat a particular patient," he said. Within the overall emphasis on practical applications of biomarkers, the meeting focuses on immunotherapy biomarkers and DNA repair.

International but Intimate

First held in 2000, the meeting is now jointly planned by ASCO, the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer, and the National Cancer Institute. "The purpose is to bring together experts from around the world in one setting," Dr. Gandara said. Each year the setting alternates between Europe and the United States. When it is held in the United States, ASCO coordinates it.

"The meeting really has two parts," Dr. Gandara said. "One part is the educational sessions, led by professionals from multiple disciplines. But another significant part is the interaction that takes place-the audience with the faculty, the faculty with faculty, and the audience with the audience." Because the meeting does not have concurrent general sessions, attendees are all together in every session, enhancing the networking opportunities and comfortable interaction.

When asked how he feels about this year's meeting, Dr. Gandara said, "I feel like a proud father. We think we have an outstanding faculty, and it is a good feeling to be able to bring together these top people."

Limited-size Tutorial Accompanies Meeting

Complementing the meeting, the 1½-day "Diagnostic Development Tutorial: From Hypothesis to Product" is open to selected early-career oncologists, biostatisticians, and industry and regulatory representatives. The tutorial will address issues critical to understanding the advances, development, limitations, and validation of molecular markers. Working in small teams with faculty members, participants will create molecular marker development plans based on specific clinical scenarios.

The tutorial will be held October 17-18 in the same hotel as the meeting. Individuals from academic institutions who are within 8 years of training may apply to participate in the tutorial and receive a travel grant. A registration request form is available online at www.molecularcameeting.org for individuals from industry interested in applying. ■

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