Childhood cancers are believed to be rooted in aberrant development, a notion supported by their typically low mutational burden, the high prevalence of single (often epigenetic) driver events, and their occurrence during narrow developmental periods. Yet the precise origins of many childhood cancers, as well as the exact molecular states that were prone to malignant transformation upon oncogenic insult, remain elusive. At the intersection of developmental biology, oncology, and translational research, this BioMed conference will explore how developmental pathways contribute to tumour initiation, progression, tumour cell plasticity and response to therapy.
Presentation
We will bring together a multidisciplinary group of scientists and clinicians to discuss the latest advances in understanding the cellular and molecular origins of childhood tumours, the development of faithful preclinical models, and the identification of novel therapeutic strategies. The programme will include sessions on stem cell-based modelling, transgenic and organoid systems, tumour heterogeneity and evolution, and new approaches to targeting childhood cancers — from epigenetic and metabolic interventions to immunotherapies.
By bridging fundamental and translational science, this meeting aims to foster new insights into the developmental underpinnings of childhood cancers and promote collaborative approaches to tackling one of the most challenging areas in oncology. We welcome researchers across disciplines who are interested in the convergence of development and cancer biology, with the shared goal of improving outcomes for children affected by cancer.
Alexandra Avgustinova
IRB Barcelona/ SJD
(Barcelona, Spain)
Jaume Mora
Pediatric Cancer Center Barcelona
(Barcelona, Spain)
Cayetano González
IRB Barcelona/ ICREA
(Barcelona, Spain)
- €0 – Attendees affiliated with the organizing institutions (IRB Barcelona & Sant Joan de Déu)
- €100 – Attendees from universities and other public institutions
- €200 – Attendees from companies and industries from the private sector
Please note that we reserve the right to cancel your registration should your application not be accepted, in which case any fees paid will be fully refunded.
Priority will be given to those who submit the highest quality abstracts for short talks or posters and the order of registration will be considered.
Abstracts should include a title, authors, affiliations, summary (max 250 words) and references
REGISTRATION DEADLINE: 1 OCTOBER, 2025
(Note: Any issue about the registration or abstract, please contact: meritxell.gavalda@irbbarcelona.org)
Venue
The BARCELONA BIOMED CONFERENCE When Development Meets Cancer: Origins, Models & Therapies in Childhood Cancer will be placed at the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau in Barcelona.
Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau
Sala Pau Gil (conference room)
Espai 1902 + Sala 1 pl. -1 (poster sessions + lunches & coffee breaks)
Accomodation
Speakers will be lodged at the Hotel Catalonia Sagrada Familia
Aragó, 577- 579
08026, Barcelona
Telephone: +34 93 245 89 05
Speakers
Poster
