The First AACR special conference on stem cells, development, and cancer: some of these cells are not like the others

Abstract

The American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) held an exciting conference on Stem Cells, Development, and Cancer in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (March 3-6, 2011). The meeting was cochaired by Geoffrey Wahl, Connie Eaves, and Hans Clevers and was attended by 250 international researchers, 40% of whom were young investigators. Three key themes emerged: (i) heterogeneity in stem cells and cancer, (ii) solid tissue cancer stem cells, and (iii) lessons from development. The interdisciplinary foundation of this meeting was central to its success and appeal, underscoring the value of juxtaposing and interrelating work from the three topics addressed.