Intl. Conference on Genetics & Epigenetics of Cancer at JSS AHER

Mysuru: The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB)-sponsored International Conference on Genetics and Epigenetics of Cancer (ICGEC-2023) was held recently at Sri Rajendra Auditorium of JSS Medical College-JSS Academy of Higher Education & Research (JSS AHER).

In his introductory address, Dr. K.A. Raveesha, the Convener of ICGEC-2023 and the Dean of the Faculty of Life Sciences, provided valuable insights into the demographic composition of the conference attendees. The conference saw more than 600 delegates from 13 different States across the country, with active participation from 18 distinguished resource persons representing prestigious institutions worldwide.

Dr. D. Guru Kumar, Organising Secretary of ICGEC-2023, outlined the conference’s theme and scope, emphasising the need for robust scientific deliberations to address issues in cancer biology, with a special focus on genetic and epigenetic factors.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Suresh Bhojraj, the Pro-Chancellor of JSS AHER, introduced chief guest Dr. Murugesan Manoharan and highlighted his significant contributions.

Dr. Murugesan Manoharan, the Chief of Urologic Oncology and Director of Robotic Urologic Surgery at Miami Cancer Institute, Baptist Health South Florida, Miami, USA, addressed the audience, underscoring the importance of platforms like this conference for discussing the genetics and epigenetics of cancer. In the ongoing battle against cancer, understanding the underlying biochemical mechanisms is essential for early diagnosis, detection, prevention and cure.

Following the unveiling of the conference abstract compendium for ICGEC-2023, Dr. Surinder Singh, the Vice-Chancellor of JSS AHER, encouraged young researchers to seize the opportunity to network with leading scientists in the field of cancer research.

Dr. C.G. Betsurmath, Executive Secretary of JSS Mahavidyapeetha, emphasised in his presidential address that collaborations across health science and life science disciplines are crucial for making significant contributions in the field of cancer.

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Jamboor K. Vishwanatha, Regents Professor and Vice-President at the Institute of Health Disparities, University of North Texas Health Science Centre, USA. He discussed the infrastructural developments of JSS AHER in the past and present, highlighting strong research as a key achievement of the institution.

The keynote speaker was introduced by Dr. H. Basavanagowdappa, Principal of JSS Medical College and the vote of thanks was extended by Dr. J.R. Kumar, Coordinator of the Division of Biochemistry, School of Life Sciences, Mysuru. Dr. MVSST Subba Rao, Co-Convener of ICGEC-2023 and Professor at JSS Medical College, was present.

 The conference began with a special lecture on “Cancer Spheroids: Mapping of Genetic and Functional Heterogeneity” by Dr. Rana Pratap Singh, Professor of Cancer Biology at the School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.