RSU Hosts International Workshop on Cancer Research

On 9 June 2026, the Institute of Microbiology and Virology at Rīga Stradiņš University (RSU) hosted the workshop on Cancer Research, organised within the framework of the project 'Genetic Characterization of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Types in Ukraine and Latvia to Inform National Policy for Cervical Cancer Prevention' (No. LV_UA/2025/3). The workshop was chaired by the project coordinator, Maria Issagouliantis, Senior Researcher at the RSU Institute of Microbiology and Virology.

The event brought together researchers, healthcare professionals, and students from Latvia, Ukraine, and Italy. More than 25 participants attended the workshop both in person and online, representing RSU, Pauls Stradiņš Clinical University Hospital, Rīga East Clinical University Hospital, the R. E. Kavetsky Institute of Experimental Pathology, Oncology and Radiobiology of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, as well as the Molecular Biology and Viral Oncology Unit of the Fondazione G. Pascale National Cancer Institute in Italy.

During the workshop, researchers presented the latest findings in the fields of human papillomavirus (HPV) genomics, cervical cancer research, molecular cancer diagnostics, and the application of artificial intelligence in oncology. Particular attention was devoted to the genetic diversity of high-risk HPV types, the association between HPV infection and the development of cervical pre-cancer and cancer, as well as the identification of novel prognostic biomarkers and opportunities for personalised oncology.

Researchers from the Latvian and Ukrainian scientific institutions delivered presentations highlighting the results achieved within the project and other ongoing studies in cancer biology and diagnostics. The workshop concluded with a discussion on future directions for collaboration and the practical implications of research findings for improving cervical cancer prevention strategies.

The event underscored the importance of international cooperation in cancer research and fostered knowledge exchange among scientists from Latvia, Ukraine, and other European countries.

Agenda of the workshop