Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery Symposium

The Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery Symposium is a pivotal event in San Diego, USA, organized by the ISSCR, aimed at bringing together global leaders from academia, industry, and clinical settings to explore the transformative potential of stem cell-based models in understanding diseases and accelerating drug discovery. This three-day symposium will delve into advancements in organoid systems that integrate various cell types, bioengineering innovations, patient-derived tumor models, and AI-driven analytical techniques. The program will highlight the evolution of these models from academic tools to industry-standard screening systems and approved therapies, addressing the challenges that remain for the broader adoption of stem cell-derived disease models in drug development.The symposium will feature contributions from esteemed institutions including the University of California, Los Angeles, the Institute for Research in Biomedicine (IRB Barcelona) & ICREA, and the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, among others. Keynote presentations will be delivered by prominent figures such as Catriona H.M. Jamieson, MD, PhD, from the University of California, San Diego, and Hans C. Clevers, MD, PhD. The discussions will cover topics such as the use of engineered tissues and microphysiological platforms, integration of immune or microbial components, and the application of AI and machine learning to enhance the fidelity and scalability of stem cell-based model systems. This symposium is an excellent opportunity for researchers and industry professionals who are involved with or are interested in novel stem-cell based models for disease modeling and drug discovery. Participants can also benefit from early registration rates, with special pricing for ISSCR Student Members, Postdoc Members, and Full/Affiliate Members. The symposium encourages the submission of abstracts that meet specific criteria set by the Program/Organizing Committee, focusing on research that adheres to ISSCR guidelines for stem cell research and clinical translation. Furthermore, there is an opportunity for attendees to join the ISSCR Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery Symposium Ambassador Program, which aims to share products, tools, and services that facilitate and accelerate research in this dynamic field. Overall, the symposium promises a comprehensive exploration of cutting-edge research and collaborative opportunities in disease modeling and drug discovery.