The European Society of Gene and Cell Therapy (ESGCT) has grown into one of the leading Societies in Gene & Cell Transfer. The ESGCT Annual Congress has now been reserved in the yearly calendars of many European and international scientists working in this advanced field of biomedical research and its clinical applications. The continued success of the annual ESGCT gene therapy conferences parallels the exciting developments in the field. Gene transfer technologies are improving rapidly and convincing evidence continues to emerge from clinical trials that gene therapy is effective for patients suffering from a wide range of diseases, including incurable life-threatening disorders.
On behalf of the ESGCT Board, the ESGCT Scientific & Educational Committees and the Local Organizing Committee it is our pleasure and honor to welcome you to the 16th ESGCT Annual Congress (13-16 November 2008). This year, the ESGCT Annual Congress will be organized in the beautiful medieval city of Brugge (Belgium), which was recently recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This unique historical setting adds a special cultural flavor to this event since Brugge is renowned for its historic architecture and art museums highlighting collections of “Flemish Primitive” masterpieces. The venue of the Congress is the state-of-the-art Music Hall located in the city center, connecting in minutes to train and main roads.
The ESGCT Annual Congress provides a unique opportunity to interact with all the stakeholders in this dynamic and exciting field at the forefront of biomedical research and clinical development. We have sought to put together a first-rate European gene therapy congress, presenting state-of-the-art advances and attracting clinicians and researchers from all parts of the globe. This year’s Annual Congress includes Plenary and Paralell Sessions on hot topics in the areas of clinical trials, inherited disease, cardiovascular and neurologic disorders, cancer, musculoskeletal disorders, immunity, genetic vaccines, emerging gene transfer technologies and vector manufacturing. Of special interest during this year’s meeting is the growing importance of RNA interference in gene therapy, and stem cell reprogramming for regenerative medicine. The first day of the ESGCT Annual Congress (Thursday, November 13, 2008) is dedicated to the traditional Education Sessions, which will highlight current requirements for up-to-date technology and treatment. A selection of the best and breakthrough contributions will be presented in the Presidential and Young Investigator Award Symposium. The last day, a special Clinigene-sponsored Industry-Academia Satellite Symposium will be organized on Freedom to Operate issues and Commercialisation of Gene Therapies.
We look forward to welcoming you!
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Thierry VandenDriessche,
Congress President |
George Dickson,
ESGCT President |