ABSTRACT
Support is requested for a Keystone Symposia conference entitled Tumor Metabolism and the
Microenvironment, organized by Drs. Erik A. Sahai, Alec Kimmelman and Johanna A. Joyce. The conference
will be held in Breckenridge, Colorado from January 24-28, 2021.
As we know, cancer is a major cause of mortality worldwide. Furthermore, cancers result from mutations within
somatic cells; however, their evolution and phenotype are determined by their environment, both local and
systemic. Increased understanding of mechanisms that drive cancer will provide new avenues to reduce
incidence and to treat the disease. Therefore, this meeting brings together researchers focusing on how
nutrient availability and utilization influences tumors and those thinking about the multitude of inter-cellular
interactions occurring within tumors. The inter-connections between these fields are becoming ever more
apparent and this meeting unites the fields of tumor metabolism and the tumor microenvironment together,
sparking new synergies and connectivity between researchers. With the extensive opportunities for discussion
and numerous short talk slots on the program, this conference will help nurture early career scientists, the next
generation of talent, and lead to the emergence of collaborative networks. Moreover, there is an afternoon
workshop on “Transitioning to Independence” for early career researchers. Finally, a thorough understanding
of how tumor systems can adapt and re-wire in response to challenges is needed to ensure that new therapies
being developed have the best chance of success as they enter clinical trials. To that end, several speakers
have been selected with the expectation that they discuss either clinical trial data. This will strengthen the
linkage between cutting-edge mechanistic studies and human disease.