It is our great pleasure to host the 8th International Symposium on Minimal Residual Cancer, to be held in Osaka, Japan, on September 21-23, 2011.We are truly and deeply honored to have the opportunity to organize this prestigious symposium in Japan.
Recent progress on molecular biology and computer technology enable us to detect circulating tumor cells (CTCs) and disseminating tumor cells (DTCs). Because CTCs and DTCs have been shown to possess close relevant to cancer stem cells, identifying, analyzing and targeting these cells are crucial to elucidate the mechanisms of initiation, progression and metastasis of cancers. Accordingly the research field of minimal residual cancer has extensively been studied so far and is rapidly expanding. The 8th International Symposium on Minimal Residual Cancer is therefore focusing on the underlying mechanisms controlling minimal residual cancers and cancer stem cells, including epithelial mesenchymal transition (EMT), tumor microenvironment (niche) and non-coding RNAs, from both aspects of basic and clinical research. With the lectures by prominent scientists and the presentations of the latest researches, we are confident that the symposium can offer an excellent opportunity to update your knowledge and to discuss the hottest topics.
The venue of the symposium, Osaka International Convention Center, is located in the center of the Osaka Metropolitan Area, which has the population of more than 12 million. Osaka is the biggest city in Western Japan, with exciting culture and delicious foods. Within 1 hour¡Çs ride, you can visit Osaka¡Çs famous neighboring cities, such as Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan and Nara, with numerous world heritage sites.
The 8th International Symposium on Minimal Residual Cancer promises to be an outstanding scientific event for the minimal residual cancer throughout the world, with exciting and productive possibilities for attendees to share the most up-to-date findings. I hope many of you will come to the symposium in Osaka.