Infections due to certain viruses, bacteria, and parasites are strong risk factors for the development of specific cancers. Approximately 20% of cancers worldwide are attributed to infections. Conversely, a subset of pathogens preferentially lyse tumor cells, leading to tumor regression and improved anti-tumor immunity. In addition, the intestinal microbiota influences our response to anti-cancer therapy. This course was a combination of introductory lectures on infection and cancer, an international workshop on principles by which viruses and bacteria subvert the cellular micro-environment to cause cancer, poster presentations, and practical group assignments.
“Small group of participants to ensure participation and discussion and the atmosphere where one felt comfortable for discussion. Also, the fact that the course organisers attended all the sessions and gave us very useful feedback and participated in our discussions as well, it felt very fruitful from a scientific point of view.”-Anonymous participant
In the group assignment, students were asked to identify one relevant issue that is still poorly characterized within the field of infection and cancer and proposed how to address this problem experimentally. This exercise aimed to stimulate critical thinking and the process of identifying scientific questions, as well as designing hypothesis-driven experiments to address these issues.
“The practical assignment on designing our own research project was really interesting as it made us think outside of our own box and reflect on other research fields.”-Anonymous participant
To see the full course program, please visit: Infection and Cancer 2021 | NDPIA