"Nanosolutions in Oncology”: Nanotechnology and Innovation to Advance Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment

by Chema Arcos

Organised by ICN2, the Severo Ochoa "Nanosolutions in Oncology" Workshop provided an excellent opportunity to highlight the latest developments and innovative approaches in oncology from the perspective of nanotechnology.

On 5 May, ICN2 hosted the "Nanosolutions in Oncology" workshop, a full-day event focused on exploring and discussing recent advances in the use of nanotechnology for cancer diagnosis and treatment. This initiative, part of ICN2's Severo Ochoa Excellence Programme 2023-2026, brought together ICN2 researchers and renowned experts in the field. It provided a multidisciplinary platform for scientific and clinical exchange, bridging basic and applied research.

Throughout the day, participants presented cutting-edge advances in diverse areas such as biosensors, drug delivery systems, nanoparticle-based therapies, functional nanomaterials and implantable electronic devices for monitoring biological parameters.

Several ICN2 researchers shared insights into their group's work, including Prof. Daniel Ruiz, Prof. Víctor Puntes, Dr Daniel Quesada, Prof. José Antonio Garrido, Dr Mary Cano, Prof. Josep Nogués, Prof. Kostas Kostarelos and Dr M. Carmen Estévez. In particular, Prof. Kostarelos and Dr Estévez were also the main organisers of the event. Topics covered ranged from early diagnosis to the study of cellular and molecular mechanisms, highlighting the critical role of nanotechnology in advancing cancer research and treatment.

The event also featured talks by leading specialists from top oncology and biomedical research institutions, who presented their ongoing research and collaborations with ICN2 groups. Notable speakers included Dr Carlos J. Rodríguez (Sant Joan de Déu Hospital), Dr Matilde E. Lleonart (VHIR), Dr Jordi Bruna (Bellvitge University Hospital/ICO L'Hospitalet), Dr Anna Moles (IDIBAPS) and Dr Maria Vieito (Vall d'Hebron University Hospital /VHIO).

Overall, "Nanosolutions in Oncology" reaffirmed ICN2's commitment to cutting-edge research in the service of human health and underlined the central role of nanotechnology in the development of more effective, safer and personalised medical solutions.

CEX2021-001214-S/ MICIU/AEI/10.13039/501100011033