April 27, 2016

Public invited to learn about VICC precision cancer medicine

Leading cancer investigators from Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center will unveil the latest in cancer research during a community event May 10.

Leading cancer investigators from Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center will unveil the latest in cancer research during an upcoming community event.

“Precision Medicine in Cancer: At the Crossroads of Research and Treatment for Patients” will be held Tuesday, May 10, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center, 310 25th Ave. S. The public is invited to attend this free, interactive educational forum for patients, families and everyone affected by cancer. Health care professionals also are welcome.

A panel of VICC oncologists and medical researchers will discuss promising new research and therapies that target cancer based on the genetic features of each patient’s tumor or cancer type.  VICC has been a leader in mutation testing of patient tumors and translational research designed to bring laboratory findings to the clinic for patient care. The goal of precision medicine is to match the right therapy to the right patient at the right time.

Jennifer Pietenpol, Ph.D., executive vice president for research at Vanderbilt University Medical Center and director of VICC, whose research laboratory focuses on the causes and potential therapies for breast cancer, will welcome participants on behalf of VICC.

Carlos L. Arteaga, M.D., director of the VICC Breast Cancer Program and the Center for Cancer Targeted Therapies, will serve as moderator for the panel discussion.

Other experts scheduled to participate and the topics they will discuss include:

  • W. Kimryn Rathmell, M.D., Ph.D., director of the Division of Hematology/Oncology, kidney cancer;
  • Justin Balko, Pharm.D., Ph.D., laboratory science;
  • Douglas Johnson, M.D., M.S.C.I., melanoma;
  • Mia Levy, M.D., Ph.D., director of Cancer Health Information and Strategy, big data and bioinformatics;
  • Ingrid Mayer, M.D., M.S.C.I., co-leader and clinical director, Breast Cancer Research Program, breast cancer.

Light snacks will be served and free valet parking will be available.

To reserve a seat, register at https://precisioncancermedicine.eventbrite.com or call 615-875-8956.