In June the historic Oriel College in Oxford served as an elegant and inspiring backdrop for the first ABC Research Conference. Our aim was to bring together researchers, supporters and experts by experience to learn and collaborate on the latest developments within metastatic breast cancer research towards prevention, earlier detection and improved therapies.
After messages from Research Manager Dr Mark Powell and a welcome given on behalf of charity Co-Founder Dr Anthony Leathem the tone was set for the day ahead.
Dr Andrew Shapanis
Fittingly, the conference began with a presentation given by Against Breast Cancer Senior Research Fellow Dr Simon Lord on how a diabetes drug (Metformin) could be repurposed to treat breast cancer. His talk was followed by Professor Max Crispin, our first Junior Research Fellow and now Director of the Institute for Life Sciences at the University of Southampton. Professor Crispin gave an overview of our research strategy and the projects currently being funded by Against Breast Cancer and undertaken in Southampton, from the design of new antibody therapies to developing tools designed to detect metastatic cancer earlier.
Throughout the day, attendees were treated to a series of presentations showcasing cutting-edge research. Among the highlights, Dr Andrew Shapanis gave the latest news and developments relating to miONCO – a Multi-Early cancer detection test from blood.
Another standout presentation was delivered by Dr. Oliver Pearce of Barts Cancer Institute who spoke about his research relating to how breast cancer tumours remodel their surroundings to protect themselves from attack by the bodies’ own immune system.
Other notable presentations were given by ABC-funded PhD student Grace Hayes who discussed the effect of obesity on breast cancer metastasis and Dr Ben Nicholas closed the presentations with an overview of his research into the development of personalised T-cell vaccines for breast cancer.
The conference sessions concluded with an engaging Q & A panel discussion to answer questions submitted by members of the audience and those watching the livestream which was broadcast over the internet. The panel included healthcare professionals including a Consultant Breast Surgeon and Nurse, a Medical Oncologist, and a Health Psychologist. They were joined by two ‘experts by experience,’ patients – one female and one male. This session underscored the importance of patient-centred care and the need to improve support systems for those affected by breast cancer.
Dr Oliver Pearce
The day ended in the great hall of Oriel College with the opportunity for everyone in attendance to meet and reflect on the day. There were chances to ask questions, share ideas, and for researchers to build relationships they will need to forge new partnerships that will undoubtedly contribute to the advancement of breast cancer research.
Our commitment to fostering a collaborative environment was evident, and many attendees left with renewed energy and new contacts to support their vital research.
Our ambition in holding the ABC Research Conference was to highlight the incredible strides being made in breast cancer research by these remarkable people, and also to underscore the ongoing need for support, collaboration, and investment in this critical field.
We envisage a world where breast cancer is no longer a life-threatening illness, where every individual has access to the best possible care, and where no one has to face their diagnosis alone. By continuing to fund cutting edge research projects, we strive to turn this vision into reality.
Dr Anthony Leathem, Co-Founder
You can view a recording of all of the talks below.