The last SEBBM congress, held in the beautiful city of A Coruña, marked the 46th edition of the conference and the 61st anniversary of the society. The event was nothing short of spectacular, bringing together renowned experts, groundbreaking research, and the unique cultural atmosphere of Galicia. We had the pleasure of listening to experts from all over the world, with a memorable opening session featuring live music from the talented Uxia just before the inaugural talk. The inagual talk was generously supported by Fundación BBVA, to whom we owe much gratitude for their continued involvement in making this congress such a success. Other big collaboration with Fundación BBVA was the recognition of young researchers, who were awarded for their presentations during the sessions organized by the different scientific groups. These sessions showcased the very best research from across Spain, reinforcing the position of this congress as a hub of scientific excellence.SEBBM has always had an international scope, and this congress was no exception. We expect the newly elected Board Members and the President to continue upholding this global perspective, ensuring that the SEBBM congress remains a key event in the international scientific calendar. A prime example of the international reach of the congress was the presence of distinguished keynote speakers, including Professor Tak Mak, whose talk was one of the highlights of the event.
Professor Tak Mak, an esteemed researcher from the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre at the University of Toronto, has made monumental contributions to immunology and cancer research. His groundbreaking work in understanding immune response and tumorigenesis continues to push the boundaries of science. Despite facing challenges such as rejected research grants, he and his team made the critical discovery of the gene encoding the immune checkpoint protein CTLA-4. This discovery laid the foundation for what would later become one of the most significant advancements in cancer treatment: immunotherapy.
While Professor Mak may not have initially foreseen the impact of his work, the implications of his research were profound. His discoveries paved the way for immunotherapies that have revolutionized cancer treatment. The significance of CTLA-4 was further recognized when James Allison received the Nobel Prize in 2018 for developing a therapy that blocks this checkpoint, allowing the immune system to attack cancer cells more effectively. Professor Mak humbly acknowledged his role as someone who “planted the seeds, nurtured them, and ensured they blossomed into beautiful flowers.” His work, now moving into clinical trials, holds the promise of further advancements in cancer therapy. His current research continues to break new ground, with his team exploring the influence of metabolism and brain neurotransmitters in immune responses.
Having started his own journey as a dishwasher in the lab of renowned virologist Roland Rueckert, he has never forgotten the importance of perseverance and collaboration in science. His favorite quote, borrowed from an African proverb, perfectly encapsulates his philosophy: «If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.» In addition to his work in cancer research, Professor Mak co-founded a research institute in Toronto focused on breast cancer, with the support of the pharmaceutical company Amgen and the Campbell family. He also founded Agios Pharmaceuticals, which in 2017 developed a groundbreaking treatment for acute myeloid leukemia by targeting cancer metabolism. While Professor Mak has not yet received a Nobel Prize himself, his contributions to the scientific community are immeasurable, and his work continues to inspire others who have gone on to win this prestigious award.
As I reflect on this congress, I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to introduce such a visionary scientist to the SEBBM community. His parting words, which perhaps echo the wisdom of Confucius, resonated with us all: «Medical scientists have two lives, and the second begins when they realize immunology is the orchestra of all life’s symphonies.» With his latest findings in Metabolic and Neural Regulations of Immunity and Cancer, Professor Tak Mak has once again demonstrated why he is a true pioneer in his field. We are deeply grateful for his visit to A Coruña and look forward to the continued progress his research will bring to the world. Thank you, Professor Mak, and thank you to everyone who made the 46th SEBBM Congress such an unforgettable event.
Interviews with Professor Tak Mak related to his visit to A Coruña:
1.1. https://elpais.com/ciencia/2024-09-19/tak-mak-inmunologo-el-sistema-inmune-es-la-orquesta-de-casi-todas-las-sinfonias-de-la-vida.html?ssm=TW_CC
2. https://www.lavozdegalicia.es/noticia/sociedad/2024/09/19/tak-wah-mak-investigador-oncologia-nobel-fuera-meta-999-cientificos-estariamos-decepcionados/0003_202409G19P29993.htm