Chromosomal instability (CIN), a well-recognized hallmark of cancer, has emerged as a crucial area of focus for researchers striving to understand the intricate mechanisms driving tumor development and progression. While large-scale aberrations in chromosome architecture have been observed in tumors for over half a century, our understanding of their underlying causes, functional consequences, and therapeutic vulnerabilities has not kept pace with advances in comprehending smaller-scale genetic changes, such as point mutations.
To bridge this critical knowledge gap and accelerate progress in the field, The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research recently convened a workshop titled “Chromosomal Instability in Cancer: Progression and Therapeutic Resistance.” This workshop, organized by leading experts in the field—Dr. Roel Verhaak of Yale University, Dr. Florian Markowetz of the University of Cambridge, and Dr. Aurélie Ernst of the German Cancer Research Center—was held from Tuesday, June 24, through Thursday, June 26, 2025, at Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut.
The event brought together 30 leaders in the field of chromosomal instability for in-depth discussions and presentations on recent mechanistic advances in understanding CIN. Attendees explored the complex interplay of factors contributing to CIN, its impact on tumor evolution and therapeutic resistance, and innovative strategies for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
New collaborations among investigators who attended the workshop are currently under consideration for funding through a targeted RFP, which will offer successful teams ASPIRE Awards worth $250,000 over a 12-month period.