2nd Annual Meeting

Stockholm June 11 2025

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GENIAL Project Hosts Second Annual Meeting to Advance Research on Genetic and Environmental Factors in Liver Cancer

The GENIAL Project, a collaborative European research initiative funded by the Horizon Europe programme (Grant Agreement No. 101096312), held its Second Annual Meeting today at STRATIPATH in Stockholm, Sweden.

Bringing together leading scientists, clinicians, patient representatives, and industry partners from across Europe, the event focused on key updates and discussions aimed at advancing the understanding of Alcohol-related Liver Disease and Hepatocellular Carcinoma (ALD-HCC).

Key Topics and Presentations:

  • Genetic Discovery
    Jessica Zucman-Rossi (INSERM) presented new findings from WP1 on novel inherited genetic variants that may predispose individuals to ALD-HCC.
  • Gene-Environment Interactions
    Mario Brosch (TUD) and Pierre Nahon (APHP) led WP2 and WP3 sessions exploring how molecular and population-level interactions between genes and environment contribute to liver cancer development.
  • Dissemination and Patient Engagement
    Veronika Vsetickova (ELPA) and Arnaud Buttin (FIN) shared progress on dissemination, training, communication, and exploitation, emphasizing the importance of patient involvement and outreach.
  • Project Management and Strategy
    Eric Trepo (ULB) and Arnaud Buttin updated attendees on project governance, milestones, and reporting processes under WP5.
  • Industry Partner Insight
    Host organization STRATIPATH offered an exclusive presentation on their ongoing contributions to translational liver cancer research.
  • Strategic Oversight
    The meeting concluded with a Steering Committee session and feedback from the Scientific and Ethical Advisory Board (SEAB), represented by Ana Lleo and Alexandre Louvet.

The annual meeting served as a critical forum to evaluate scientific progress, align strategies, and strengthen synergies across work packages. By fostering an environment of open exchange and interdisciplinary dialogue, the GENIAL consortium is accelerating the path toward better prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of liver cancer.

The day ended with a networking dinner, further reinforcing the spirit of collaboration that defines the GENIAL Project.