By Nancy Berliner, MD
2008-11-01
Dr. Berliner is the President-Elect of ASH.
Hematology research has historically been on the front lines of
scientific discovery aimed at seeking answers to fundamental biological
questions. Many breakthroughs in the field of hematology have been
translated into advances in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of
blood disorders, as well as a wide variety of other human diseases. For
example, sickle cell disease was the first disorder to be characterized
at the molecular level, and research on hemoglobin led to the current
understanding of the relationship between human gene structure and
function. Stem cells of the hematopoietic system were the first adult
stem cells to be described, and they still provide the best model for
understanding the biology of stem cells in other tissues. Hematopoietic
stem cell transplantation continues to drive forward clinical research
on other forms of stem cell therapy. Fundamental studies of thrombosis
and hemostasis have had a major impact on our understanding and
treatment of cardiovascular disease. These are just a few of the
examples of the distinguished tradition of hematology fostering
groundbreaking innovations in biomedical research.
In recognition of this role, ASH began a strategic planning
initiative in 2006 to define and promote the leading areas of active
endeavors in hematologic research. The ASH Agenda for Hematology Research: 2006
received extensive input from all members of the Society's 17
scientific committees and the Executive Committee. This year, the
Society undertook a similar process to update the agenda. The ASH Agenda for Hematology Research: 2009-2011
reflects current trends in hematologic research and celebrates the 50th
anniversary of ASH. Although many aspects of our research priorities
remain unchanged, the 2008 revision describes the latest advances in
the field, including breakthroughs in stem cell research, and
reinforces the commitment to improved understanding of sickle cell
disease, as well as disorders of hemostasis and thrombosis.
The ASH Agenda for Hematology Research: 2009-2011 is
organized into two parts. First, the highest priority scientific themes
are described; they contain a wide range of comprehensive topics that
are considered to be the most promising and exciting directions in
hematology research. They include: hematopoietic stem cells; normal and
pathological hematopoiesis; sickle cell disease; hematologic
malignancies; targeted, cellular, and genetic therapies; immunobiology;
thrombosis and vascular biology; and health care delivery and patient
outcomes. Second, the Agenda recommends the most important priorities
for development of research infrastructure in order to facilitate all
areas of hematology research, with a particular focus on the needs for
training and core facilities.
The ASH Agenda for Hematology Research: 2009-2011 is
expected to be an important tool in promoting the recognition and
importance of hematology research to the scientific community, funding
agencies, political and legislative bodies, philanthropic
organizations, patients and their advocacy groups, and the American
public. The Agenda will be distributed to all participants at the
annual meeting in San Francisco and will be available for download on
the ASH Web site in December.
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