Science Researcher Update: Spotlight on Meetings, Conferences, and Events

A new breed of cancer vaccines and immunologic drugs is in development. Utilizing novel multi-functional drug modalities to turn on the immune system through multiple receptor systems and cells, the goal is to amplify immune system function while simultaneously removing barriers to its performance. However, we need to make sure that in our zeal to develop these novel drugs, we do not set ourselves up for a tragedy like the Tegenero (TGN1412) Phase I trial that nearly killed six young, healthy volunteers.

So how do we predict the impact of these novel drugs BEFORE clinical trials begin? This workshop will examine that, using current cases in drug development and focusing on how to bridge translational gaps for drugs acting on immunity, whether small molecule, biologics or adjuvants.

This single-day course brings clinical thought leaders like Keynote Speaker Dr. Lawrence A. Turka (Harvard) and Dr. Diane Jorkasky (Board of Directors, Tengion Inc.; formerly with Endo Pharmaceuticals and Pfizer) together with veteran toxicologists from pharmaceutical firms. Current case examples will describe key immune pathways (benefits and risks) and hazards of Phase I research, as well as lessons learned from years of experience in all phases of drug development. The course is targeted toward biotech toxicologists and clinical investigators who are entering drug development and/or applying for SBIRs and related development grants.

(Courtesy of Hotel: Hotel Marlowe. 25 Edwin H Land Blvd Cambridge, MA, via weddingmapper.com)