The 25th International Seminar: "Biomarkers as Promising Molecular Targets for Breast Cancer Therapy" by Prof. Boon Huat BAY, National University of Singapore

The National University of Singapore (NUS) is a prestigious university, which was placed 8th in the world and 1st in Asia, in the latest QS World University Rankings 2024. Prof. Boon Huat BAY, a former Head of the Department of Anatomy at the NUS Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, has been engaged in research on functional analysis and the utility of cancer biomarkers, in particular in breast cancer.

During Prof. Bay's sabbatical at RIKEN (Institute of Physical and Chemical Research) in Japan, we were able to hold the seminar at Shinshu University School of Medicine as Prof. Bay has known Prof. ITO Ken-ichi of the Division of Breast and Endocrine Surgery since 2011, moreover, Prof Bay was in constant contact with the late Prof. NAGATA Tetsuji (an Emeritus Professor in the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Shinshu University School of Medicine), since 1995, who is regarded as one of his mentors.

In the seminar, Prof. Bay gave a detailed explanation on the possibility of inhibiting breast cancer cell growth by down-regulating the expression of Metallothionein 2A and Y-Box binding protein 1. He also clearly explained, with specific examples, basic methods in cancer research, which made the lecture really engaging and meaningful for students and young researchers. More than 20 participants, including undergraduate students, graduate students, and faculty, attended the seminar, which was held in a hybrid format that blends face-to-face and online delivery of the presentation. The lecture was followed by a number of enthusiastic questions from graduate students, resulting in active discussions.

The seminar, co-hosted by the Division of Breast and Endocrine Surgery and the Institute for Biomedical Sciences, proved a valuable opportunity for participating students and faculty, enabling them to enhance their understanding of the latest knowledge related to cancer research. We will continue to provide students and faculty in the Shinshu University School of Medicine with opportunities to experience world-leading research and broaden their perspectives.

Prof. TANAKA Naoki, Director of International Relations Office and Department of Global Medical Promotion, Shinshu University School of Medicine

【Lecture】　
"Biomarkers as Promising Molecular Targets for Breast Cancer Therapy"
Boon Huat BAY, MBBS, PhD
Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple Professor
Department of Anatomy
Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine
National University of Singapore

【Abstract】
According to the Globocan 2022 estimates, female breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women worldwide, and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. As such, novel biomarkers for diagnosis and prognostication are key to optimize treatment strategies, as well as in driving molecular targeted therapy, that could provide a valuable and alternate treatment option to improve survival in breast cancer patients. A general overview of potential biomarkers such as the Metallothionein protein and Complement component 1, q subcomponent binding protein (C1QBP), together with a detailed review of the Y Box-binding Protein 1 (YB-1) as potential targets for breast cancer therapeutics will be presented.