Neoplasia, Tumor Microenvironment, and Metastasis

During the last two decades researchers have made significant progress in defining the molecular and genetic underpinnings of the tumorigenic process (neoplasia). These efforts have resulted in a better understanding of cancer as a disease of progressive, sequential alterations in oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes that can be selectively targeted to improve therapeutic responses. Unfortunately, despite this enhanced understanding of tumor cell growth and novel directed treatment interventions, 90% of cancer-associated deaths are due to metastatic disease. Therefore, our need to understand the molecular and genetic basis of tumor dissemination, as well as target and/or prevent metastasis is paramount to improving treatment outcome in cancer patients.

The mission of the ASIP Neoplasia, Tumor Microenvironment, and Metastasis Special Interest Group (SIG) is to promote understanding of the genetic and molecular mechanisms, as well as cellular interactions, that facilitate tumor progression and metastasis formation. Our focus is on mechanisms that promote tumor cell dissemination from the primary site, as well as processes that support tumor growth at distant sites. It is the aim of the NTMM SIG to advance our understanding of the tumor microenvironment and metastatic niche to enable new treatments and diagnostic tools that will reduce the burden of cancer-associated mortality.

The objectives of the ASIP Neoplasia, Tumor Microenvironment, and Metastasis SIG are:

• To promote cutting edge research in the areas of tumor microenvironment and metastasis that focuses on improving our basic understanding of the complex tumor/host interactions that promote tumor progression, invasion, angiogenesis and metastasis, as well as enhance translational and clinical efforts in cancer therapy.
• To foster a community of cancer researchers that share common interests in furthering our understanding of the complex interactions between tumor and host that result in evolution of the tumor microenvironment, promotes tumor progression, facilitates tumor dissemination and growth at distant sites.
• To encourage the participation and involvement of trainees and newcomers, as well as foster interactions and collaborations amongst researchers in the field through enhanced networking and poster sessions featuring recent advances in tumor microenvironment and metastasis research.

Listserv

ASIP Members are invited to participate in the Neoplasia, Tumor Microenvironment, and Metastasis SIG Listserv. Please email membership@asip.org to have your name and email address added to the listserv.

To send a message to the Neoplasia, Tumor Microenvironment, and Metastasis SIG Listserv, send your email to asiptumormicro@asip.memberclicks.net. Please note that you must be a member of this listserv in order to send and receive messages.

Please visit our NTMM SIG Facebook page. We would love to hear from you!

Please direct all questions to: Lisa McFadden (240) 283-9712.