Understanding cancer as a purely genetic disease is futile. Evolution explains how the  dynamic tumour environment selects for phenotypes that are better adapted. An understanding of the interactions between the different tumour cell phenotypes and other cells and microenvironmental elements is key not only in predicting cancer progression but also in designing therapies that could prevent or hinder malignant progression. A multidisciplinary dialogue between cancer doctors, mathematicians, biologists and evolutionary ecologists will make possible a vision of an ecologically-enlightened understanding and treatment of cancer.

Invited speakers*:

Edward Flach, IMO, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL USA

Sandy Anderson, IMO, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL USA

David Basanta, IMO, Moffitt Cancer Center, Tampa, FL USA

* Due to last minute cancellations Moffitt’s Robert Gatenby and Arizona’s John Pepper won’t be giving a talk at the minisymposium