CALL FOR ABSTRACTS: 2nd Translational Research Conference: Erythropoiesis Control and Ineffective Erythropoiesis from Bench to Bedside

The main objective of this virtual conference is to accompany you from “bench to bedside”, translating recent progress in the understanding of the origin and developmental control of haemopoietic megakaryocytic-erythroid progenitors into clinical practice.Erythropoiesis is a complex multistep process from the committed erythroid progenitor to the mature red cell, that involves cross talk with other haemopoietic progenitors. Although recent advances have shed light on some components of this process, much still remains to be elucidated, in particular in the context of pathological erythropoiesis and in haematological disorders characterized by ineffective erythropoiesis.

During erythropoiesis, efficient cytoprotective systems are required to limit possible reactive oxygen species (ROS) related toxic effects.  The role of these systems is even more important in conditions of ineffective erythropoiesis (IE) such as thalassaemias, sickle cell disease and congenital dyserythropoietic anaemias (CDAs), but also in myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).

To date, blood transfusions and erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs) such as recombinant EPO, are the frontline therapies for anaemia associated with ineffective erythropoiesis (IE). However, neither of these treatments are without risk and in some cases they are not effective. There is therefore a clinical need for novel agents with different mechanisms of action from those of existing ESAs. Furthermore, gene therapy and genome editing are becoming a reality for some erythropoietic disorders, opening a new therapeutic scenario and creating needs for decision-making approaches and continuing education.

All of these exciting, rapidly evolving issues will be discussed in the translational setting of this e-Conference, supported by the combined expertise of a distinguished faculty of global experts in the field, including basic scientists and clinicians.

The programme of the second ESH meeting on ERYTHROPOIESIS CONTROL AND INEFFECTIVE ERYTHROPOIESIS: FROM BENCH TO BEDSIDE is looking very exciting and we are looking forward to welcoming you!