Neutrophils are a type of white blood cell that play an important role in the body’s immune response, helping to fight infection and inflammation.
Hosted by Professor Eileen Parkes and supported by the ECMC Network, a UK-wide initiative advancing early-phase cancer research and clinical trials, the event aimed to encourage the discussion and development of cancer therapies from this underexplored area of immunology.
The afternoon attracted a diverse audience, including junior researchers, students, and principal investigators, reflecting strong interest in this rapidly developing field. Opportunities for collaboration between academia and industry were a key theme throughout the meeting.
Among the speakers was Dr Alina Janney (DJS Antibodies, part of AbbVie), who discussed the translational potential of targeting neutrophil migration. Scientific presentations from both Dr Janney and Professor Irina Udalova (Professor of Molecular Immunology at the Kennedy Institute of Rheumatology) highlighted neutrophils as a promising yet relatively underexplored therapeutic avenue in cancer research.
The talks prompted lively discussion among attendees, demonstrating both the novelty of the field and enthusiasm for further research and collaboration. The event concluded with a networking session, giving participants the opportunity to continue conversations and establish new connections.
