After the success achieved last year, VHIO has once again organized, on April 20, its Open Day, with the aim of disseminating among society both the work being done at the center as well as the latest updates and the latest advances that are occurring in cancer research and treatments. Thus, throughout the day, there were talks and workshops for adults, children, and the whole family.
During the event more than 20 activities were held for children and adults in which those attending this Second VHIO Open Day could participate, including lectures, visits to the laboratories, and workshops for all ages that allowed attendees to perform various thematic itineraries according to their interests. Always in an informative way and accompanied by researchers from the center that have designed activities that illustrate and connect with the latest developments in oncology science.
Talks on the most recent advancements in cancer research
Five speeches on the most recent advancements in cancer research were held in the Cellex building’s auditorium alongside the other activities. Thus, it was explained how artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming a new ally, the revolution that the development of liquid biopsy is bringing about in diagnosis and research, with a focus on the liquid biopsy of breast milk, by one of the most mediatic studies of VHIO this year, or what the future of clinical trials will be like. The necessity of providing patients a voice in research, enhanced medicines, and understanding that cancer is a genetic disease was also emphasized. The talks were intended for the public, starting at the age of twelve.
Workshops for the entire family
The workshops were also successful. The children and their families learnt about genetics and how physical qualities are inherited within a family at a workshop that some families with cancer patients have described as an excellent tool for youngsters to understand about the role of genetic inheritance in cancer. They were also allowed to pretend to be scientists for a day. In the workshop on volumes and laboratory instruments, participants learnt how to stain and prepare samples for examination under a microscope, as well as what genetic mutations are made out of using LEGO bricks.
In addition, attendees were able to extract DNA from various fruits and see it with their own eyes, as well as grasp the pH by changing the colors of the preparations. Artificial intelligence also played an important role, with a session where participants could witness how computers learn from medical images. The smaller children enjoyed the VHIO Paint area, where they could explore their artistic side and create crafts while learning about scientific principles.
Many showlabs were held, during which the work done in various of VHIO’s laboratories was explained. Thus, it was feasible to witness a live PCR while simultaneously learning how samples are collected and processed, as well as what causes a cell to become a tumor cell. Several of those who participated in the event repeated their attendance from the previous year and agreed on the importance of the citizen-researcher interaction. They all had a dynamic morning as they wanted to engage in different events. This was a perfect opportunity for researchers to explain, in first-person and in detail, how their group conducts translational research.
The second VHIO Open Day was held under the framework of the Patient and Citizen Involvement Program (PATIENT), developed as a Severo Ochoa Center of Excellence. The program aimed to bring science closer to cancer patients and the general public in order to raise awareness among citizens about the importance of continuing to support research to advance cancer treatments. The event was possible thanks to the dedication of all the researchers and support staff who volunteered to participate, organize, prepare, and coordinate the different activities.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of you who made a Saturday of science possible.
