Several academicians gathered at the Lingnan Science Forum to explore the development of precision medicine

On September 20th, a gathering of prominent academicians from the Chinese Academy of Sciences and the Chinese Academy of Engineering took place in Guangzhou, marking the launch of the three-day 2024 Lingnan Science Forum series, specifically the “6th Precision Medicine Development Forum.” This event is dedicated to investigating the latest advancements in precision medicine.

The forum centers around two major themes: “Dialogue of Diverse Voices” and “Scientific Brainstorming,” featuring a total of 43 specialized activities. Participants will engage in discussions about cutting-edge topics related to precision medicine, including academic exchanges, technical training, policy announcements, result transformations, industry financing, and scientific outreach. The overarching aim is to provide authoritative guidance on the development of precision medicine in China, while promoting high-quality growth in the life and health technology sectors and offering strategic consultations for government entities.

During the “Dialogue of Diverse Voices,” discussions will revolve around the theme “Innovating Precision Medicine to Accelerate New Productive Forces,” with contributions from 11 academicians. They will focus on strategic advancements in precision medicine that encompass omics, molecular biology technologies, biopharmaceuticals, and clinical applications.

The “Scientific Brainstorming” segment will showcase expert insights into recent developments in multi-omics technology, molecular techniques, biomedicine, and clinical research as they relate to global public health challenges, fundamental research, and the prevention and treatment of major diseases. Experts spanning various sectors are set to provide comprehensive recommendations aimed at steering the innovative evolution of precision medicine.

A highlight of the forum was a presentation by Academician He Fuchu of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, who discussed “Precision Medicine Driven by Proteomics.” He underscored the significance of the Chinese Human Proteome Project, which is addressing ten critical diseases affecting the Chinese population through targeted proteomic research. He stressed the need for a cyclical development approach that aligns large-scale scientific research with individual clinical applications, expressing hope that these foundational findings will improve future cancer diagnostics and treatment strategies.

Additionally, Academician Lin Dongxin from the Chinese Academy of Engineering shared his research on “Genomic Changes Driving the Progression of Esophageal Cancer Precursors.” His work examined normal genome variability patterns and the dynamic microenvironment changes that occur during the development of esophageal cancer. This research offers a systematic analysis of genomic mutations in healthy esophageal epithelial cells that may lead to cancer transformation, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms behind esophageal cancer progression and the factors that contribute to its pathology.

The forum also celebrated the recipients of the 2023 Guangdong Provincial Precision Medicine Science and Technology Awards, recognizing their outstanding projects and contributions.

Coordinated by the Guangdong Provincial Association for Science and Technology, this forum is jointly organized by the Guangdong Precision Medicine Application Society and the Chinese Biophysical Society.