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ESMED General Assembly 2022 – Genetics Session

ESMED General Assembly 2022

4-6 August, Madrid

Session: Exploring Genetics & Genomics

There have been enormous advancements in the field of Genetics during the last decade which have widespread implications across virtually all diseases. Genome editing has the ability to revolutionize medicine, but also poses many challenges. The 2022 ESMED General Assembly will explore the latest innovations in genetics and genomics, with the goal of encouraging a multidisciplinary approach to genetics research.

A look at this year's genetics presentations

Steven Shell
University of Virginia’s College at Wise

Polynuclear ruthenium organometallic complexes induce DNA damage identified by human NER factor XPC
Ruthenium organometallic compounds represent an attractive avenue in developing alter- natives to platinum-based chemotherapeutic agents. While evidence has been presented indicating ruthenium-based compounds interact with isolated DNA in vitro, it is unclear what effect these compounds exert in cells. Moreover, the antibiotic efficacy of polynuclear ruthe- nium organometallic compounds remains uncertain. In the present study, we report that ex- posure to polynuclear ruthenium organometallic compounds induces recruitment of dam- aged DNA sensing protein Xeroderma pigmentosum Group C into chromatin-immobilized foci. Additionally, we observed one of the tested polynuclear ruthenium organometallic com- pounds displayed increased cytotoxicity against human cells deficient in nucleotide excision repair (NER). Taken together, these results suggest that polynuclear ruthenium organometal- lic compounds induce DNA damage in cells, and that cellular resistance to these compounds may be influenced by the NER DNA repair phenotype of the cells.

Tammy Walker-Smith
Texas A & M University

Breast Cancer Risks, Advancements, Genetic Testing, and Treatment
People who are high risk for breast cancer and / or those diagnosed with breast cancer are particularly vulnerable and rely on scientific advances, testing, and treatments to improve their quality of life and/or become cancer free. This is where genetic advancements in targeted gene therapy, specific testing, and adjuvant therapy have changed the landscape of how breast cancer patients receive informed decision making information on preventive and/ or targeted breast cancer treatments. The more innovative and advanced the treatment options become, the greater the chance for improved patient outcomes and overall improved women’s health. This presentation shares the journey, trials, and breakthroughs in breast cancer testing, treatment, and preventive care modalities.

Alejandra Monserrat Rodriguez-Ramirez
INPRFM

Imaging genetics of mood stabilizers in Bipolar Disorder
Dr. Alejandra Monserrat Rodriguez-Ramirez is a Psychiatrist working on imaging genetics research of affective disorders.