Annual Meeting: Nov. 3-5

SITC 2023 Annual Meeting Schedule

Friday, Nov. 3–Sunday, Nov. 5

Welcome to our 38th Annual Meeting. You can view the entire Annual Meeting schedule below.

RegistrationPre-Conference ScheduleDownload Schedule

Friday, Nov. 3, 2023

38th Annual Meeting   |   San Diego Convention Center   |   7:45 a.m.–7 p.m. PDT

Times and program schedules subject to change.

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Session 100: Presidential Welcome

7:45-7:50 a.m.  PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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7:45 a.m. Presidential Welcome
Leisha Emens, MD, PhD - Ankyra Theraputics

Session Description

SITC President Leisha Emens, MD, PhD will welcome attendees for the official start of the 38th Annual Meeting.


Session 101: Awards Ceremony

7:50-8:20 a.m.  PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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7:50 a.m. Introduction
Leisha Emens, MD, PhD - Ankyra Therapeutics
7:55 a.m.

2023 Fellows of the Academy of Immuno-Oncology

2023 Lifetime Achievement Award

2023 Tara Withington Public Service Award

2023 Pedro J. Romero Service to JITC Award

2023 Steven A. Rosenberg Scholar Award

Session Description

The Awards Ceremony will recognize annual award recipients, presented by SITC President Leisha Emens, MD, PhD.


Session 102: Richard V. Smalley Memorial Award and Lectureship

8:20-9:10 a.m.  PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

no_symbol.pngIndicates that the presentation is not available on-demand.

 

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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8:20 a.m. Introduction
Leisha Emens, MD, PhD - Ankyra Therapeutics
8:25 a.m. no_symbol.pngCancer Immunoediting: Targets, Mechanisms and Implications for Immunotherapy
Robert Schreiber, PhD, FAIO - Washington University School of Medicine 

Session Description

Established in 2005, the Richard V. Smalley Memorial Award is presented each year to a luminary in the field that has significantly contributed to the advancement of cancer immunotherapy research.  It is the society’s most prestigious award and serves to honor those that have been pioneers in their work and made a notable impact worthy of high regard and recognition by their peers. 

The 2023 Richard V. Smalley Memorial Award recipient is Robert D. Schreiber, PhD from Washington University School of Medicine. After receiving the award, Dr. Schreiber will give a presentation Cancer Immunoediting followed by time for questions from the audience.


Session 103: Leveraging Tumor-rejecting Leukocytes to Cure Tumors by Immunotherapy

9:25–11:30 a.m.  PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Co-Chairs: 

Carla Rothlin, PhD
Yale School of Medicine

Sjoerd H. van der Burg, PhD
Leiden University Medical Center

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9:25 a.m. Introduction
Carla Rothlin, PhD Yale School of Medicine 
9:30 a.m. Interplay between T Cells and Macrophages/Neutrophils in Therapeutic  Vaccination
Sjoerd H. van der Burg, PhD – Leiden University Medical Center
9:55 a.m. Neutrophil-Activating Therapy for the Treatment of Cancer
Ian Linde, PhD Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
10:20 a.m. Eosinophils in the Anti-Cancer Response 
Marleen Kok, MD, PhD – Netherlands Cancer Institute
10:45 a.m. (989) Cancer sculpts granulopoiesis to generate tumor-supportive neutrophils 
Daniela C. Cerezo-Wallis, PhD – Yale University
11 a.m.

(1101) Activation of myeloid cells suppresses metastatic ovarian cancer via tumoricidal neutrophils and IL-27-secreting macrophages

Taito Miyamoto, MD, PhD – The Wistar Institute
11:15 a.m. (878) T cell immunotherapies recruit and activate neutrophils to eliminate tumor antigen escape variants
Daniel Hirschhorn, PhD – Weill Cornell Medical College

Session Description

The largest component of the tumor immune microenvironment (TME) consists of leukocytes, specifically myeloid cells, which are rapidly recruited from the blood stream and display an enormous functional plasticity driven by a variety of cues. Recent studies clearly showed that the efficacy of T-cell centered immunotherapies can strongly depend on the presence of co-infiltrating tumor-rejecting myeloid cells, including macrophages, neutrophils and/or eosinophils. In addition to the requirement of myeloid cells for effective T-cell based therapy, there are ample examples that point to activation or modulation of myeloid cells to facilitate treatment of cold tumors devoid of CD8+ T cells. This session is purely focused on the tumor-rejecting role of these innate myeloid effector cells and the quick emerging field on how to leverage these innate effectors for tumor control.


Session 104: Late Breaking Abstract Session 

11:30 a.m.–12 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Chair: 

Mary Kate Kasler, DNP
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

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Session Description

This 30-minute session will highlight two selected Late-breaking Abstracts who will each showcase their work in a 15-minute oral presentation.  

Lunch and Poster Viewing

12–1:30 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Halls A and B1 - San Diego Convention Center

 


Concurrent Session 105a: Rapid Oral Abstract-Basic Science

12:15–1:15 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall D - San Diego Convention Center

no_symbol.pngIndicates that the presentation is not available on-demand.

Co-Chairs: 

Geoffrey Markowitz, PhD
Weill Cornell Medicine

Abigail E. Overacre-Delgoffe, PhD
University of Pittsburgh

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Session Description

This fast-paced session will feature six oral presentations from select basic science abstracts with time for Q&A.  


Concurrent Session 105b: Rapid Oral Abstracts - Clinical

12:15–1:15 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Rafeh Naquash, MD
Stephenson Cancer Center Oklahoma University

Tanya Keenan, MD, MPH
BCD Merck

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Session Description

This fast-paced session will feature six oral presentations from select clinical abstracts with time for Q&A. 


Concurrent Session 105c: Virtual Only Session: Meet an IO Expert

12:30 pm – 1 p.m. PDT  |  Virtual Meeting Platform

Co-Chair: 

Crystal L. Mackall, MD

Stanford University

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12:30 p.m.

Discussion and Q&A

Crystal Mackall, MD – Stanford University


Concurrent Session 106a:  Mechanisms of Resistance to Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors

1:30–3:10 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Harriet Kluger, MD
Yale University 

Arlene Sharpe, MD, PhD, FAIO
Harvard Medical School 

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1:30 p.m. Introduction
Harriet Kluger, MD – Yale University
Arlene Sharpe, MD, PhD – Harvard Medical School                                                                                  
1:40 p.m. Non-T Cell Based Resistance Mechanisms
Lili Yang, PhD – University of California,  Los Angeles 
2 p.m. Immune Cell Screens
Hongbo Chi, PhD - St Jude Children’s Research Hospital
2:20 p.m. Machine Learning, Computational Biology to Study Resistance 
David Liu, MD, MPH, MS – Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
2:40 p.m.

(1502) Tumor heterogeneity impedes immunotherapy through driving spatially organized pockets of immunosuppression  
Melissa Q. Reeves, PhD – University of Utah Huntsman Cancer Institute

2:55 p.m. (568) Tumor-intrinsic Sox2 signaling induces regulatory T cell-mediated CD8 T cell exclusion, promoting resistance to checkpoint blockade therapy in lung cancer 
Elen Torres, PhD – Koch Institute for Integrative Cancer Research at MIT

Session Description

While immune checkpoint inhibitors have resulted in prolonged responses and cures in subsets of patients, many do not respond while others may develop resistance over time. Diverse mechanisms of resistance have been identified, including cellular and molecular immune-suppressive elements. In this session we will discuss recently described mechanisms affecting T cells and other key cells in the tumor microenvironment, cellular screens that will inform future studies and novel machine learning methods to decipher the complex interactions that lead to resistance.  


Concurrent Session 106b: Microbiome and Cancer

1:30–3:10 p.m. PDT  |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6CD - San Diego Convention Center

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Co-Chairs: 

Melody Smith, MD, MS
Stanford University School of Medicine  

Jennifer Wargo, MD, MMSc
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

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1:30 p.m. Introduction
Melody Smith, MD, MS - Stanford University School of Medicine 
1:35 p.m. (1330) Gut microbiome dysbiosis promotes immune suppression and lung cancer development
Zahraa Rahal, MD – MD Anderson Cancer Center
1:45 p.m. no_symbol.pngHarnessing Human Gut-Derived Bacteroides to Drive Systemic Anti-Tumor Immunity
Rabi Upadhyay, MD – New York University School of Medicine
2 p.m.

(1328) The use of fecal filtrate transplant to enhance response to immune checkpoint blockade
Golnaz Morad, DDS, PhD – The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

2:10 p.m.

Intratumoral Microbes: From Microniches to Single Cells
Susan Bullman, PhD - Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

2:25 p.m. (1207) A new oral microbial metabolite prodrug preserves CD8+ T cell stemness and improves the antitumor efficacy of immune checkpoint blockers
Youngseok Cho, PharmD, PhD – University of Michigan
2:35 p.m. Cell Therapy, Antibiotics, Interventional Trials
Marco Ruella, MD - University of Pennsylvania
2:50 p.m. Panel Discussion 

Session Description

Cancer immunotherapy has led to new advances in the treatment of cancer patients. Immune checkpoint blockade targeting CTLA-4 and/or PD-(L)1 has improved outcomes in patients with late-stage cancer. Patients with hematological malignancies have also benefited from cellular therapies, particularly with CAR T cells. In patients who receive these treatments, there is an increasing understanding of what causes therapeutic resistance or relapse. The goal of this session is to explore how the intestinal microbiome impacts efficacy and toxicity after these therapies. The intestinal microbiome will also be assessed in terms of its regulatory mechanisms in the context of cancer immunotherapy. 


Concurrent Session 106c: Immunoprevention of Cancer

1:30–3:10 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall D - San Diego Convention Center

no_symbol.pngIndicates that the presentation is not available on-demand.

 

Co-Chairs: 

Philip Castle, MD, MPH
National Cancer Institute 

Catherine Wu, MD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

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1:30 p.m. Introduction
Philip Castle, PhD, MPH – National Cancer Institute          
Catherine Wu, MD – Dana Farber Cancer Institute   
1:35 p.m.

Vaccination to Prevent/Intercept Cancer in High Risk Population
Eduardo Vilar-Sanchez, MD, PhD - The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center
 

1:55 p.m. Immunobiology of Immunosurveillance and Prevention 
Olivera Finn, PhD, FAIO - University of Pittsburgh
2:15 p.m. no_symbol.pngNovel Technologies for Cancer Immunoprevention   
Steven Reed, PhD - HDT Bio
2:35 p.m.

(1032) Early remodelling of CD4 T cell differentiation in lung squamous carcinogenesis 
James L. Reading, PhD – Cancer Research UK Lung Cancer Centre of Excellence

2:40 p.m. (138) Shared frameshift neoantigens are expressed throughout mismatch repair deficient cancer development and are recognized by tissue infiltrating T cells that are dysregulated in advanced lesions 
Matthew Brown, MS, BA – Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
2:45 p.m. Q&A, Panel Discussion

Session Description

Given the evidence that prevention and screening have the greatest impact on reducing mortality due to cancer in the population, this session will cover a wide range of topics related to the emerging, exciting field of immunoprevention. Topics will include: 1) immunobiology and its role in carcinogenesis; 2) primary and secondary prevention, including identifying and intercepting pre-neoplastic conditions and targeting of breast cancer; 3) targeting high-risk populations such as those with hereditary cancer syndromes; 4) repurposing technologies and interventions for immunoprevention, such as mRNA vaccines and immunotherapy, respectively; and 5) pragmatic considerations for developing immunoprevention strategies, including NCI programs and clinical trial designs and endpoints.


Concurrent Session 106d: Transforming Therapies with Project Optimus: A conversation with the FDA around how to apply and integrate project Optimus into novel clinical   

1:30–3:10 p.m. PDT  |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6AB - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Mirat Shah, MD
FDA

Cecilia Yeung, MD 
Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center 

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1:30 p.m.

Introduction: Setting the Stage on Project Optimus

Mirat Shah, MD – FDA
Cecilia Yeung, MD – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
1:40 p.m.
Panel Discussion
Topic 1: Project Optimus in current practice: Trial design, endpoints, dosing, randomization
Topic 2: Applying Optimus to novel immunotherapy trials: Cellular therapies, vaccines, oncolytic viruses, etc.
Topic 3: Future solutions for assisting researchers in optimization: Adjusting to dynamic landscapes for ongoing trials, and implications for the future
Peter Bross, MD – US Food and Drug Administration
Xiaofei (Sophie) Wang, PhD – US Food and Drug Administration
Jason Luke, MD, FACP – University of Pittsburgh Medical Center
Cecilia Yeung – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center
Jane Healy, MD, Scientific AVP, Clinical Research, Oncology Early Development – Merck
Alessandra Cesano, MD, PhD – ESSA Pharmaceuticals
Jennifer Brudno, MD – National Cancer Institute
Megan Othus, PhD – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Session Description

Coming Soon 

Break

3:10–3:30 p.m. PDT  


Concurrent Session 107a: Cytokines in Cancer 

3:30–5:10 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Warren Leonard, MD
National Institute of Health 

Ann Silk, MD, MS
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute

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3:30 p.m. Introduction
Warren Leonard, MD - National Institutes of Health
3:35 p.m. PD-1 and IL-2; T Cell Exhaustion
Rafi Ahmed, PhD - Emory University 
3:55 p.m. Cytokine Engineering
Jamie Spangler, PhD - Johns Hopkins University
4:15 p.m. Clinical Perspective on the N803 Agent
Karim Chamie, MD - University of California, Los Angeles
4:35 p.m.

(550) Harnessing natural IL-18 activity through IL-18BP blockade reshapes the tumor microenvironment for potent anti-tumor immune response 
Pierre Ferre, PhD – Compugen Ltd.

4:50 p.m. (1070) “Decoy-resistant” IL-18 in combination with CTLA-4 blockade enhances anti-tumor efficacy in preclinical models of renal cell carcinoma 
David A. Schoenfeld, MD, PhD – Yale Cancer Center
5:05 p.m. Summary/Wrap Up

Session Description

This session will cover the role of cytokines in tumor-immune interactions and how cytokines can play a role in clinical oncology. This is a rapidly expanding field, where engineered forms of cytokines and combination approaches are being extensively studied. Dr. Rafi Ahmed will provide insight into the mechanisms by which IL-2 combination therapy with PD-1 affects the CD8 T cell exhaustion program. Dr. Jamie Spangler will discuss novel engineered cytokines and immunocytokines. Dr. Karim Chamie will give a clinical perspective on the use of cytokines, including an engineered form of IL-15, in the treatment of patients with bladder cancer.


Concurrent Session 107b: Promising Novel Biotechnologies for the Next Wave of IO Innovation

3:30–5:10 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall D - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Jane Grogan, PhD
Biogen

Zhen Su, MD, MBA
Marengo Therapeutics         

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3:30 p.m. Overview of IO Biotech 
Zhen Su, MD, MBA – Marengo Therapeutics 
3:40 p.m. CAR T in Solid Tumor
Carl June, MD, FAIO - University of Pennsylvania
3:55 p.m. Emerging New Modalities (Vaccines, Bi-specifics) 
Julie Brahmer, MD - The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins
4:10 p.m.

Advances in T-Cell Engagers Against Solid Tumors

Carolyn Britten, MD, FRCPC – Amgen

4:20 p.m. (599) Single-agent safety and activities of target-preserving anti-CTLA-4 antibody gotistobart (ONC-392/BNT316) in PD-(L)1 resistant metastatic NSCLC and population PK analysis in patients with solid tumors 
Kai He, MD, PhD – James Cancer Center, The Ohio State University
4:30 p.m.

(777) Initial results from an open-label phase 1b/2 study of RP1 oncolytic immunotherapy in solid organ and hematopoietic cell transplant recipients with advanced cutaneous malignancies (ARTACUS)
Michael R. Migden, MD – University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

4:40 p.m.

Panel: Hot topics; Future Directions; Reflections
Carolyn Britten, MD, FRCPC –
Amgen

Jane Grogan, PhD - Biogen 
William Grossman, MD - Gilead Sciences  
Brad Loncar, BBA - Biotech TV

Session Description

Over the last decade, cancer immunotherapy has revolutionized the lives of millions of people worldwide who are battling cancer. The advent of immunotherapy treatments like immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI), T-cell engagers (TCE), and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell therapy (CAR-T) has not only transformed patient care, but also opened up new avenues for research and innovation. However, whilst transformative, current treatments are not a panacea and many tumors remain refractory to immunotherapies. They have sparked a renaissance of therapeutic discovery and have attracted multidisciplinary teams to the field, bringing with them their unique perspectives and expertise. Together, we can co-create the next wave of immunotherapy treatments and continue to push the boundaries of what's possible in the fight against cancer. In this session, we will review the rapidly evolving landscape of IO biotech and discuss some of the most promising novel approaches to unleash the full potential of anti-tumor immune response for the next wave of IO medicines.


Concurrent Session 107c: Big Data and Data Sharing Committee

3:30–5:10 p.m. PDT  |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6AB - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Alan Hutson, PhD
Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center 

Kellie Smith, PhD 
Johns Hopkins University

Lillian Kuo, PhD
National Cancer Institute

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3:30 p.m. Introduction
Alan Hutson, PhD - Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center  
3:40 p.m. NCI Data Resources and Data Sharing
Jill Barnholtz-Sloan, PhD - National Cancer Institute
3:55 p.m. Regulatory Obstacles around Sharing Human Subjects Data
Aaron Mann - Clinical Research Data Sharing Alliance
4:10 p.m. Data Sharing as a Driver of Collaboration, Data Utilization and Authorship
Alessandra Cesano, MD, PhD - ESSA Pharmaceuticals
4:25 p.m.

Data Sharing Challenges 
Riyue Bao, PhD - UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

4:40 p.m. Panel Discussion

Session Description

This session will focus on data sharing in immunotherapy research, with a special emphasis on balancing the need for open data access with the protection of young investigators' careers. The discussion will explore best practices for sharing large datasets, including strategies to ensure appropriate attribution and recognition. In addition, the session will address the challenges and etiquette surrounding data sharing and emphasize the mutual benefits for researchers and the public. By promoting effective data sharing practices, the session aims to advance scientific progress and improve patient outcomes in immunotherapy research. The session will conclude with a panel discussion.


Concurrent Session 107d: Oral Abstract Session

3:30–5:10 p.m. PDT  |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6CD - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Jeffrey Ishizuka, MD, DPhil 

Yale University

Rachel Sanborn, MD 

Earle A. Chiles Research Institute

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Session Description

Selected abstracts will be presented in 10-15 minute oral presentations. 


Concurrent Session 107e: Convergence Towards Enhanced Immunotherapy
This session is co-organized by the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) and Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C)

3:30–5:10 p.m. PDT  |  Upper Level - Meeting Room 11 - San Diego Convention Center

no_symbol.pngIndicates that the presentation is not available on-demand.

Co-Chairs: 

Julian Adams, PhD
Stand Up To Cancer

James Gulley, MD, PhD, FACP

National Cancer Institute

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3:30 p.m.

no_symbol.pngIntroduction

Julian Adams, PhD Stand Up to Cancer
3:40 p.m.

no_symbol.pngProgramming Cell Therapies with Targeted Protein Degradation

Max Jan, MD, PhD – Massachusetts General Hospital

4:10 p.m.

CAR T for T Cell Lymphoma

Maksim Mamonkin, PhD – Baylor College of Medicine

4:40 p.m.

no_symbol.pngImmune Interception of Lung Cancer via a Pre-Cancer Atlas

Avrum Spira, PhD Boston University Medical Center

Session Description

Coming Soon

Poster Reception 

5:10-6:40 p.m. PDT  | Ground Level - Exhibit Halls A and B1 - San Diego Convention Center

 

Saturday, Nov. 4, 2023

38th Annual Meeting   |   San Diego Convention Center   |   7:15 a.m.–8:30 p.m. PDT

Times and program schedules subject to change.

Click the button below to view or purchase available presentations.

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Session 200: SITC Business Meeting 

7:15–7:45 a.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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7:15 a.m. Introduction
Leisha Emens, MD, PhD - Ankyra Therapeutics

Session Description

Please join SITC President Leisha Emens, MD, PhD, and SITC Executive Director, Mary Dean, JD, CAE, for this annual briefing on Saturday, Nov. 4 from 7:15–7:45 a.m. PDT. Dr. Emens and her guests Marco Ruella, MD, and Zhen Su, MD, MBA, will update you about the strategic direction of the society, including cell therapy engagement, SITC’s biotech strategy, and the potential opportunities artificial intelligence can provide in IO exploration. All SITC members are invited to attend and enjoy a continental breakfast!


Session 201: Organizer Welcome

8–8:05 a.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

 

Chair: 

Yvonne Chen, PhD
University of California, Los Angeles 

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8 a.m. Organizer Welcome
Yvonne Chen, PhD - University of California, Los Angeles 

Session Description

The official start of the second full day begins with a welcome from one of the Organizers behind the Annual Meeting programming. 


Session 202: Keynote Address-Stressing Out the Immune System in Cancer

8:05–8:55 a.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

 

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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8:05 a.m.

Introduction

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD – Ankyra Theraputics

8:10 a.m. Stressing Out the Immune System in Cancer
Susan Kaech, PhD - Salk Institute

Session Description

The 38th Annual Meeting Keynote Address will be given by Susan Kaech, PhD from the Salk Institute. Dr. Kaech’s presentation on stressing out the immune system in cancer will be followed by time for questions from the audience. 


Session 203:  Stromal Cells and TLS

8:55–10:55 a.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

 

Co-Chairs: 

Nikhil Joshi, PhD
Yale School of Medicine    

Ellen Puré, PhD 
Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania

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8:55 a.m. Introduction 
Nikhil Joshi, PhD - Yale School of Medicine   
9:05 a.m. TLS: A Central Hub in the Cancer Immunity Cycle
Catherine Sautes-Fridman, PhD – Universite Paris-Cite
9:30 a.m. Immune Regulation by Stromal Cells
Rolf Brekken, PhD - University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center
9:55 a.m.

A Vascular Perspective on TLS: how to make endothelial cells high

Gabriele Bergers, PhD - VIB-KU Leuven, Belgium                      

10:20 a.m. (606) IMpower110: Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) and clinical outcomes in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) treated with first-line atezolizumab or chemotherapy 
Barzin Nabet, PhD – Genentech
10:35 a.m. (62) Pathological, transcriptomic and prognostic assessment of lymphoid aggregates in patients with primary and metastatic melanoma 
Lilit Karapetyan, MD – Moffitt Cancer Center

Session Description

Solid tumors are complex neo-organs comprised of many cell types and a dynamic extracellular matrix. In recent years, there has been increasing focus on the importance of interactions between immune and stromal cells and on understanding how these interactions facilitate and regulate immune responses. Organization is key to immune responses, but the details of how immune cells are organized in the TME is an emerging area. The stromal microenvironment of human cancer is heterogeneous, but in some cases highly organized tertiary lymphoid structures (TLS) exist in association with tumors, which can exhibit cardinal features of lymph nodes. This session will review the importance of organization in facilitating immune responses and highlight developments in our understanding of TLS biology in cancer and the role of TLS in IO responses. 


Session 204:  Late-Breaking Abstract Session 

11:25–11:55 a.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Chair: 

Alfred Garfall, MD
Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania


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Session Description

This 30-minute session will highlight two selected Late-breaking Abstracts who will each showcase their work in a 15-minute oral presentation.  

Lunch and Poster Viewing 

11:55–1:25 p.m. PDT  |  Ground Level - Exhibit Halls A and B1- San Diego Convention Center


Session 205a: Rapid Oral Abstract-Basic Science

12:10–1:10 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall D - San Diego Convention Center

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Co-Chairs: 

Golnaz Morad, DDS, PhD
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

Zachary A. Cooper, PhD
AstraZenaca

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Session Description

This fast-paced session will feature six oral presentations from select basic science abstracts with time for Q&A.  


Session 205b: Rapid Oral Abstract-Clinical 

12:10–1:10 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Praveen K. Boomareddy, MS, PhD  
Bpharm-Replimune Inc

Allison Betof Warner, MD, PhD
Stanford Cancer Center

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Session Description

This fast-paced session will feature six oral presentations from select clinical abstracts with time for Q&A. 


Session 205c: Virtual Only Session: Expert Panel Discussion

12:30 – 1 p.m. PDT |  Virtual Meeting Platform

Co-Chairs: 

Judith Agudo, PhD

Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

Michael A. Davies, MD, PhD 

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

 

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12:30 p.m.

Panel Discussion

Judith Agudo, PhD – Dana-Farber Cancer Institute 

Michael Davies, MD, PhD – The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center


Session 206: Presidential Session 

1:25–2:50 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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1:25 p.m. Introduction
Leisha Emens, MD, PhD - Ankyra Therapeutics
1:30 p.m.

(1006) High doses of MHC-II neoantigens in peptide cancer vaccines induce tumor-specific inhibitory cytolytic CD4+ T cells

Hussein Sultan, PhD - Washington University, School of Medicine

1:45 p.m.

(1399) Identification of alternative splicing-derived targets for TCR-T cell therapies

Elise Wilcox, PhD - Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

2 p.m.

Expert Discussant

Carl June, MD, FAIO - University of Pennsylvania

2:10 p.m.

(916) Making their own off switch: Fgl2 produced by antigen-specific CD8+ T cells tempers the CD8+ T-cell response via apoptosis of FcγRIIB+ CD8+ T cell

Kelsey Bennion, BS - Emory University

2:25 p.m.

(1111) Targeting lipid metabolism to improve PARP inhibitor response in BRCA-associated TNBC

Carlos Wagner de Souza Wanderley, PhD - Brigham and Women's Hospital 

2:40 p.m.

Expert Discussant

Lorenzo Galluzzi, PhD - Weill Cornell Medicine

Session Description

Join SITC President Leisha Emens, MD, PhD for oral presentations from the top four scoring Young Investigator Abstract authors. The Presidential Award recipient will be selected following the session and will be announced at the Awards Ceremony that evening at 6:30–7 p.m. PDT. 

Break

2:50–3:20 p.m. PDT 


Session 207a:  Immune Therapy Toxicities, Evolving Frontiers 

3:20–4:45 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

 

Co-Chairs: 

Douglas Johnson, MD, MSCI 
Vanderbilt University Medical Center


Bianca Santomasso, MD, PhD 
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

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3:20 p.m. Introduction
Douglas Johnson, MD, MSCI – Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Bianca Santamasso, MD, PhD – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center 
3:35 p.m. CAR
Nirali Shah, MD - National Institutes of Health
3:55 p.m.  irAE
Alexandra-Chloé Villani, PhD - Massachusetts General Hospital
4:15 p.m. (1254) Tumor-mediated education of bone marrow neutrophil progenitors facilitates the development of checkpoint inhibitor-associated toxicity
Brent A. Hanks, MD, PhD – Duke University
4:30 p.m. (1244) Polarized immune responses reveal actionable therapeutic targets in cutaneous adverse events to checkpoint inhibitors
Stephanie Gu – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Session Description

Immune checkpoint inhibitors and cellular therapies produce durable responses in a subset of treated patients, but also cause a diverse array of toxicities related to dysregulated immunity. In this session, we will discuss the emerging pathophysiology of these immune-related toxicities, from immune-related adverse events (irAEs) to the immune effector cell-associated toxicities of cytokine release syndrome, neurotoxicity, and hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis-like syndrome. Dr. Nirali Shah will present an overview of the clinical features, grading, pathophysiology, and treatment approaches for the newly defined immune effector cell associated HLH-like syndrome (IEC-HS). Dr. Chloe Villani will present an overview of the systematic single-cell characterization of patients with irAEs done by her group, producing a variety of insights into the pathogenesis of irAEs.  Finally, session chairs Drs. Bianca Santomasso and Douglas Johnson will synthesize current research and commonalities between CAR-T and immune checkpoint inhibitor associated toxicities. 


Session 207b: Metabolism and the Immune Response to Cancer  

3:20-4:45 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall D - San Diego Convention Center

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Co-Chairs: 

Ping-Chih Ho, PhD
Ludwig Cancer Center     

Robert Leone, MD
Johns Hopkins University

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3:20 p.m. Introduction
Ping Chih Ho, PhD – University of Lausanne & University Hospital of Lausanne
3:30 p.m. Aging and Diet
Lydia Lynch, PhD – Brigham and Women's Hospital
3:50 p.m.

no_symbol.pngTargeting Glycerol Metabolism in anti-Tumor Immunity

Conghui Yao, PhD – Blavatnik Institute, Harvard Medical School 

4:10 p.m.

Lipids Regulate CD8+ T Cell Metabolic Fitness and Antitumor Immunity

Teresa Manzo, PhD – European Institute of Oncology: Milan

4:30 p.m. (933) Heme-mediated reprogramming guides CD8+ T cell exhaustion in response to mitochondrial dysfunction 
Yingxi Xu, PhD – University of Lausanne

Session Description

Work over the past several decades has underscored that cancers and immune cells can be characterized by distinct and specific metabolic pathways and nutrient requirements. As such, the interplay between the metabolic requirements of tumor-responsive immune cells and existing metabolic conditions, both within the tumor microenvironment and systemically, plays a critical role in determining the nature and extent of the anti-tumor response. In fact, metabolic challenges can be understood as checkpoints to immune response, and recent work has highlighted the principle that metabolic vulnerabilities in cancer can be targeted to enhance the immune response. Speakers in this session will highlight new insights into this field from a number of perspectives, including the role of systemic metabolism on the anti-tumor immune response, specific metabolic features of cancer and how these programs locally influence the immune response, and lastly, metabolic adaptations of cancer to therapeutic intervention.  


Session 207c: SITC Surgery Committee Session 

3:20–4:45 p.m. PDT |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6AB - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Sangeetha Prabhakaran, MD, FACS
University of New Mexico   

Vernon Sondak, MD
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute  

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3:20 p.m. Introduction
Sangeetha Prabhakaran,MD, FACS - University of New Mexico
3:25 p.m.

Principles Learned from Neoadjuvant Therapy for Cutaneous Malignancies 

Sapna Patel, MD - The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center

3:40 p.m.

Patient Selections for NAI, Defining Who Needs Adjuvant Immunotherapy, Difference Between Academic vs. Community-Based Biomarkers for Immunotherapy Response

Roberto Salgado, MD, PhD - GZA-ZNA Hospitals, Antwerp, Belgium; Peter Mac Callum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia

3:55 p.m.

Principles Learned from Neoadjuvant Therapy for Lung/Colon Cancers 

Janis Taube, MD, MSc - Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

4:10 p.m.

NAI and Surgical Considerations, Specific Toxicities Influencing Surgery, Changing Surgical Management Based on Toxicities, Optimal Timing of Surgery

Stephanie Downs-Canner, MD - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
4:25 p.m.

(1361) Neoadjuvant CD40 agonism remodels the tumor immune microenvironment in locally advanced esophageal/gastroesophageal junction cancer

Bridget P. Keenan, MD, PhD – University of California, San Francisco

4:35 p.m. Panel Discussion

Session Description

Coming Soon 


Session 207d: Oral Abstract Session 

3:20–4:45 p.m. PDT |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6CD - San Diego Convention Center

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Co-Chairs: 

Laura Rogers, PhD 

Mayo Clinic

Charu Aggarwal, MD, MPH

University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine

Break

4:45–5:05 p.m. PDT  


Session 208a: Neuroimmunology in Cancer 

5:05–6:30 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

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Co-Chairs: 

Robert Prins, PhD 
University of California-Los Angeles 

Sebastien Talbot, PhD 
Queen's University

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5:05 p.m. Introduction
Robert Prins, PhD – University of California, Los Angeles
5:10 p.m. The Neural Regulation of Cancer 
Humsa Venkatesh, PhD – Harvard Medical School
5:30 p.m. Brain Metastases
Daniela Quail, PhD – McGill University 
5:50 p.m.

Novel Strategies to Safely Target Brain Tumor Antigens

Hideo Okada, MD, PhD – University of California, San Francisco

6:10 p.m. no_symbol.png(988) Vagal-CD8+ T Cell Neuroimmune Axis Modulates Liver Cancer 
Kylynda C. Bauer, PhD – NIH, National Cancer Institute
6:20 p.m. (956) Glioma-neuronal circuit remodeling induces regional immunosuppression 
Takahide Nejo, MD, PhD – University of California, San Francisco

Session Description

Despite new advances in immunotherapy for many solid tumors, tumors arising in the brain and around peripheral nerves are not typically immune responsive.  Cancer cells actively secrete growth factors that promote tumor hyper-innervation (neo-neurogenesis) and develop complex connections with neurons and other parenchymal cells in the brain. A better understanding of how tumor cells develop immune resistance in these anatomical compartments is critical before immunotherapy may produce clinically relevant anti-tumor immunity.  In this session, experts will discuss the latest research in the tumor innervation, brain metastases, and immunotherapy.  


Session 208b: Diversity in Patient Populations

5:05–6:30 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall D - San Diego Convention Center

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Co-Chairs: 

Roshan Bastani, PhD 
University of California, Los Angeles

Kavita Dhodapkar, MD, MBBS 
Emory University 

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5:05 p.m. Introduction
Kavita Dhodapkar, MBBS – Emory University       
5:10 p.m. Diversity in Clinical Trials 
Sandip Patel, MD - University of California San Diego Moores Cancer Center
5:30 p.m. Aging Tumor Microenvironment
Ashani Weeraratna, PhD - Johns Hopkins University
5:50 p.m. no_symbol.pngBasic Immunology of T Cell Aging 
Janko Nikolich, MD, PhD - The University of Arizona College of Medicine
6:20 p.m. Panel Discussion 

Session Description

In recent years, several studies have begun to evaluate the impact of host factors including race/ethnicity/age/socio-economic status on outcomes in both children and adults with cancer. Impact of these factors on the biology of immune response is also increasingly appreciated. However, how age/racial diversity affect immune response to cancer is not completely understood. This session will explore disparities in cancer care as well as emerging insights into the impact of aging and racial/ethnic background on the immune system and the cancer microenvironment. These insights also have implications for possible mechanisms by which age/race/ethnicity can modulate tumor immunity.


Session 208c: Manufacturing 

5:05–6:30 p.m. PDT |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6AB - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Michal Besser, PhD 
Davidoff Center, Rabin Medical Center                    

Isabelle Riviere, PhD
Takeda 

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5:05 p.m. Introduction
Michal Besser, PhD – Davidoff Center, Rabin Medical Center  Isabelle Riviere, PhD – Takeda      
5:10 p.m. Conventional Manufacturing (ex vivo expansion) and Next Generation Manufacturing and Automation of T Cells 
David Stroncek, MD - GMP Core Facility at NIH 
5:25 p.m. The Development of Multiplexed-Engineered iPSC-Derived NK cells 
Bahram Valamehr, PhD - Fate Therapeutics 
5:40 p.m.

Viral (retro-, lenti-) Manufacturing and Gene Editing Platforms

Steven Feldman, MPH, PhD - Stanford GMP Facility

5:55 p.m. Impact of Manufacturing on Function and Efficacy 
Xiuyan Wang, PhD - Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
6:10 p.m. Panel Discussion

Session Description

In this session, you will be informed about the most recent advancements in the manufacturing of cells and genetic engineering platforms for cell therapy clinical applications. The presentation will cover topics including automation, as well as the effects of manufacturing processes on the functionality and fitness of T-cells. The session will also delve into aspects of retroviral and lentiviral vectors manufacturing, as well as alternative approaches such as gene editing. Additionally, the production and engineering  of NK cells and macrophages for clinical use will be discussed.


Session 208d: Oral Abstract Session 

5:05–6:30 p.m. PDT |  Upper Level - Ballroom 6CD - San Diego Convention Center

Co-Chairs: 

Margaret Callahan, MD, PhD 

Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Diwakar Davar, PhD

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center

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Session Description

Selected abstracts will be presented in 10-15 minute oral presentations. 


Session 209: Awards Ceremony

6:30–7 p.m. PDT |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

Chair: 

Leisha Emens, MD, PhD
Ankyra Therapeutics

 

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6:30 p.m. Introduction
Leisha Emens, MD, PhD - Ankyra Therapeutics
6:35 p.m.

Award Recognition

•    Young Investigator Awards
•    JITC Best Paper Awards
•    JITC Peer Review Mentorship Program Class of 2023 Graduates
•    Martin "Mac" Cheever Excellence in Clinical Trial Design - Travel Award
•    SITC Fellowship and Technology Awards
•    Connect-a-Colleague Top Referrer
•    Sparkathon Class of 2023 Recognition
•    Presidential Travel Awards
•    Presidential Award

Session Description

 The recipients of the following awards will be recognized and the awards will be presented by SITC President Leisha Emens, MD, PhD:
•    Young Investigator Awards
•    JITC Best Paper Awards
•    JITC Peer Review Mentorship Program Class of 2023 Graduates
•    Martin "Mac" Cheever Excellence in Clinical Trial Design - Travel Award
•    SITC Fellowship and Technology Awards
•    Connect-a-Colleague Top Referrer
•    Sparkathon Class of 2023 Recognition
•    Presidential Travel Awards
•    Presidential Award

Poster Reception 

7-8:30 p.m. PDT  | Ground Level - Exhibit Halls A and B1 - San Diego Convention Center

The CheckPoints Party

8:30-12 A.M. PST | Lobby Level - Grand Ballroom - Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023

38th Annual Meeting   |   San Diego Convention Center   |   7:45 a.m.–12:15 p.m. PST

Times and program schedules subject to change.

Click the button below to view or purchase available presentations.

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Session 300: NCI Update Session

7:45–8:15 a.m. PST |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Co-Chairs: 

Marc Ernstoff, MD

NIH/NCI/DCTD/DTP-IOB

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7:45 a.m.

Cancer Adoptive Cell Therapy Network

Zhang-Zhi Hu, MD - IOB/DTP/DCTD/NCI

7:55 a.m.

Pediatric Immunotherapy Network

Anju Singh, PhD - IOB/DTP/DCTD/NCI

8:05 a.m.

Canine Cancer Immunotherapy Network

Connie Sommers, PhD - DTP/DCTD/NCI/NIH

Session Description

Coming Soon 


Session 301: Organizer Welcome   

8:15–8:20 a.m. PST |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

Chair: 

Harriet Kluger, MD
Yale University 

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8:15 a.m. Organizer Welcome
Harriett Kluger, MD - Yale University 

Session Description

The official start of the last day begins with a welcome from one of the Organizers behind the Annual Meeting programming


Session 302: Thomas Waldmann Memorial Plenary Session: Cell-based Immunotherapies for Treatment of Cancer

8:20–10:25 a.m. PST |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

 

Co-Chairs: 

Christine Brown, PhD
City of Hope

Chris Klebanoff, MD
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute

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8:20 a.m. Introduction
Chris Klebanoff, MD – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
8:25 a.m. CAR T Cells
Chiara Bonini, MD IRRCS Ospedale San Raffaele
8:50 a.m.

Toward the Development of Synthetic Immunity to Cancer

Kole Roybal, PhD - University of California, San Francisco

9:15 a.m. Multi-Pronged CAR-T Cell Therapies for Solid Tumors
Yvonne Chen, PhD University of California, Los Angeles
9:40 a.m. (286) Vaccine-boosted CAR T crosstalk with host immunity to reject tumors with antigen heterogeneity 
Leyuan Ma, PhD – University of Pennsylvania
9:55 a.m.

(768) Transcriptional profiling of Merkel cell carcinoma that escaped polyomavirus-specific TCR-engineered T cells reveals actionable immunotherapy approaches

Yuta Asano, PhD – Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

10:10 a.m.

(247) Memory reprogramming enhances CAR T cell potency

Alexander Doan – Stanford University School of Medicine

Session Description

Cell-based immunotherapies have entered the standard of care for B-lymphoid malignancies and are now showing encouraging signs of efficacy across a diverse range of adult and pediatric solid cancers. To make further progress, the field now must address three critical questions: 1) the identification and therapeutic targeting of clonally conserved cancer-specific antigens, 2) the phenotypic and functional attributes of effective versus ineffective cell products, and 3) the molecular mechanisms leading to lymphocyte dysfunction within tumors and translatable strategies to overcome these barriers. In this session, speakers will describe innovative new strategies and emerging clinical data focused on achieving these goals using CARs, TCRs, and TIL.

Break 

10:25-10:40 a.m. PST


Session 303: Hot Topic Symposium: Advances in Gene Editing, Synthetic Biology and Designing Innovative Clinical Interventions

10:40–12:15 p.m. PST |  Ground Level - Exhibit Hall C - San Diego Convention Center

(Overflow Viewing in Exhibit Hall D)

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Co-Chairs: 

Marcela Maus, MD, PhD
Massachusetts General Hospital                            

Kole Roybal, PhD
University of California, San Francisco

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10:40 a.m. Introduction: Shared Immune Escape and the Future of Cancer Immunotherapy
Daniel Chen, MD, PhD - Engenuity Life Sciences
10:50 a.m.

no_symbol.pngEffects of Bcl-2 family protein overexpression in CAR T cells alone and in combination with BH3 mimetics

Felix Korell, MD - Massachusetts General Hospital

11:15 a.m.

no_symbol.pngHow are Generative AI and Machine Learning Changing I/O Drug Discovery?

Rishi Bedi - Y-Trap

11:40 a.m.

Engineering T Cell with Novel Receptor Architectures

Philip Gregory, PhD - 2Seventy Bio

12:05 p.m. Panel Discussion

Session Description

The session will highlight current challenges and future solutions to develop safe and efficacious engineered immune cell therapies. Speakers will cover current clinical experience and challenges that limit efficacy, use of machine learning and AI to improve cell therapies, and strategies to engineer cells with advanced features to impact treatment of refractory cancers.

SITC Onsite Registration Hours

Badge and Materials Pick-Up Desk - San Diego Convention Center Outside Hall D

Tuesday, Oct. 31
3–6 p.m.

Wednesday, Nov. 1
6:30 a.m.–6 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 2
6:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Friday, Nov 3
6:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 4
6:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 5
7–11 a.m.

Exhibitor Registration & Lead Retrieval - Pick-Up Desk (Hall B Registration)

Wednesday, Nov. 1
10 a.m.–4 p.m.

Thursday, Nov. 2
7 a.m.–4 p.m.

Friday, Nov 3
7 a.m.–2 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 4
7 a.m.–2 p.m.