The GoBroad Medical Forum - The 4th Shanghai Seminar and Training session on Clinical Application of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation" was successfully convened in Shanghai on September 7^th to 8^th, 2024. This event was organized by the National Clinical Research Center for Hematologic Diseases of the Blood Disease Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, and was hosted by the GoBroad Shanghai Zhaxin Hospital/Shanghai Liquan Hospital.

 

This seminar and training session not only featured a main forum on transplantation, rich in content and full of practical content, but also specially introduced the 2024 GoBroad Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cell Therapy Summit, along with three specialized sub-forums dedicated to lymphoma and myeloma treatment strategies and nursing practices. Over a hundred authoritative experts from across the nation, including leading figures in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and distinguished scholars in the field of hematology oncology, delivered lectures, sharing their invaluable clinical experiences, research findings, and innovative concepts. Nearly 400 hematologists and nursing professionals convened to engage in an in-depth, multidimensional, and comprehensive discussion on the latest advancements and clinical application challenges in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation technology.

 

 

Expert Addresses at the Opening Ceremony

 

Collaboration and Knowledge Exchange Among Experts in Hematology to Advance ASCT Application in China

During the opening ceremony, Professor Wang Chun, the Presiding Chairman of the seminar and Medical Director of GoBroad Shanghai Zhaxin Hospital/Shanghai Liquan Hospital, delivered the opening address, and recounted the development journey of the two hospitals, Professor Wang stated, "Since its inception, our team has consistently prioritized patients, relentlessly pursuing innovation and breakthroughs to establish our distinctive approach to diagnosis and treatment! Within less than five years of establishing our two hospitals, we have successfully conducted over 650 hematopoietic stem cell transplants." This milestone not only represents a significant increase in the volume of transplants but also demonstrates the hospital’s bold approach in tackling some of the most challenging cases in hematological oncology. These include: ① Salvage transplants for patients unable to achieve remission, with more than 80% of transplant cases involving non-remission patients; ② Transplants for elderly patients, with those over 60 years old accounting for nearly 22% of cases, and the oldest transplant recipient being 74 years old; ③ Advancements in the transplant treatment of refractory hematologic malignancies, especially hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for myelofibrosis, refractory peripheral T-cell lymphoma, and patients with strongly positive DSA. Concurrently, the team has been actively engaging in academic exchanges, consistently organizing national ASCT forums, quarterly Training session, and discussions on challenging medical cases via Cloud Platform. Through these initiatives, they collaborate with hematologic oncology professionals nationwide to advance China's ASCT technology, foster the development of the hematology field, and improve patient outcomes. Professor Wang Chun also highlighted that ASCT, as an important treatment modality in the realm of hematologic tumors, has garnered growing attention in China in recent years. Despite this, many clinical needs remain unmet. Professor Wang expressed hope that such forums and training sessions would bolster exchange and collaboration among experts and scholars in the field, collectively elevating the application of ASCT in China, standardizing transplant procedures, and serving more clinical patients.

 

This conference has also garnered the attention and support of many experts and scholars in the hematology field. Several leading figures in hematology graced the event with their presence and delivered keynote speeches. The experts who attended the opening ceremony include: Conference Chair, Secretary of the Party Committee and Deputy Director of the Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital (IH), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Secretary Chang Zikui; Conference Chair, Director of the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Center of the Institute of Hematology and Blood Diseases Hospital (IH), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Professor Han Mingzhe; Tenured Professor Shen Zhixiang at Ruijin Hospital Affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine; President Yan Dongfang and Vice President Zhong Juhua of the Shanghai Association for Non-Government Medical Institutions.

 

At the opening ceremony, Secretary Chang Zikui expressed high admiration for the courage and perseverance demonstrated by Professor Wang Chun's team in their "struggling to survive in a tight spot". He highlighted the crucial role of such a spirit in driving medical advancements and conveyed his earnest hope for deepening collaboration with GoBroad Healthcare Group to jointly foster the clinical application of new technologies and advanced therapeutic strategies.

 

Professor Shen Zhixiang also holds Professor Wang Chun's team in high regard for their courageous approach to breaking through difficulties and has offered his distinctive perspectives on the future direction of blood disease treatment. He advocates for primary hospitals to play a greater role in the diagnosis and treatment of early-stage blood disease patients, enabling timely interventions and enhanced treatment outcomes. The large hospitals, on the other hand, should focus their resources on the research and treatment of complex and difficult cases, thereby, a hierarchical diagnosis and treatment system with complementary advantages is formed, creating a favorable layout.

 

Furthermore, President Yan Dongfang, representing the Shanghai Association for Non-Government Medical Institutions, highly commended the significant achievements of GoBroad Shanghai Zhaxin Hospital/Shanghai Liquan Hospital. He highlighted that the hematology departments of Zhaxin and Liquan Hospitals, through their outstanding medical technology and superior service quality, have successfully positioned themselves among the first batch of "Influential Specialty Brands in the Social Healthcare Sector" ranking at the forefront. This represents a high recognition of their professional capabilities and contribution to society. President Yan Dongfang encouraged both Zhaxin and Liquan Hospitals to continue to leverage their strengths, base their efforts on solid capabilities, innovate continuously, and light the beacon of hope for more patients with hematologic diseases.

 

CONFERENCE——ASCT Main Forum

 

Rooted in Clinical Practice, Concentrating on the Unresolved needs in the Clinical Application of ASCT in China

The main forum was officially inaugurated with a clear and insightful presentation by Professor Wang Chun, titled "An Overview of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (ASCT)." His compelling introduction laid a strong theoretical foundation for the conference, setting the stage for in-depth discussions to follow. The forum then shifted focus to the comprehensive management of ASCT, covering each critical phase - mobilization and collection, cryopreservation and reinfusion, preconditioning, and complication management. Every key step was meticulously explained, with case analyses and discussions providing attending physicians with a deeper understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of standardized ASCT management. Furthermore, the conference highlighted the application of ASCT in the treatment of peripheral T-cell lymphoma and acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Detailed case presentations and scholarly discussions allowed participants to gain a clearer understanding of the efficacy and advantages of ASCT in addressing these complex and refractory diseases, offering valuable insights for future clinical practice.

 

Pioneering Academic Frontiers, Collaboratively Fostering High-quality Advancement in Chinese Hematology

The forum provided a thorough analysis of the current state and future direction of ASCT in China, directly addressing existing unmet needs while leveraging big data to systematically outline the epidemiological characteristics of lymphoma in China and the latest advancements in ASCT treatments. In addition to reviewing the remarkable progress of ASCT technology in the country, the forum also explored how cutting-edge innovations can lead the field to new heights in the future.

 

What is particularly noteworthy is that blood centers openly shared their teams' latest research findings and groundbreaking advancements in the treatment of blood disorders at the forum. Specifically, in the treatment of complex and refractory hematologic diseases, such as acute leukemia and myelofibrosis, they presented remarkable achievements. For CD7+ acute leukemia, attending experts introduced innovative therapeutic strategies that are expected to bring new hope for addressing this difficult-to-treat disease. The application of TCRαβ+ cell depletion to reduce the risk of relapse following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation also drew significant attention. The introduction of this technology marks the beginning of a new era in hematologic disease treatment, characterized by personalized and customized approaches. It provides strong scientific and technological support to enhance therapeutic outcomes and greatly improve patient prognoses.

 

As the main forum drew to a close, Professor Zhang Xiaohui, from the Department of Hematology at Peking University People's Hospital and Deputy Director of the Peking University Institute of Hematology, delivered a profound and forward-thinking presentation on the integration and innovation of Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation (HSCT) and new therapies in China. Professor Zhang offered a deep analysis of the latest advancements in HSCT while highlighting the trend of integrating HSCT with new therapies, bringing fresh perspectives and insights to the treatment of hematologic malignancies. His presentation not only provided a comprehensive reflection on the cutting edge of medical technology but also opened up broader and more diverse treatment pathways for patients with hematologic malignancies, illustrating the limitless possibilities of continuous medical advancement and innovation. As Professor Zhang’s speech came to a successful conclusion, the main forum gradually came to an end. However, the thoughts and discussions it sparked will undoubtedly continue to influence future medical practices, driving hematologic disease treatment to new heights.

 

2024 GoBroad Summit on Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation and Cell Therapy

 

Frontier Exploration Ushers in a New Era of Hematologic Malignancies Treatment

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation technology has evolved over several decades, with its therapeutic efficacy thoroughly validated in clinical practice. Meanwhile, the emergence of new technologies like CAR-T cell therapy has brought hope to patients with refractory and relapsed hematologic malignancies. This summit showcased the latest advancements and clinical applications in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and CAR-T cell therapy across various hospitals within the GoBroad Healthcare Group.

During the summit, the expert team from GoBroad Healthcare Group shared in-depth insights into their experience with CAR-T therapy for hematologic malignancies, with a particular focus on innovative strategies for treating T-cell tumors using CAR-T therapy. This presentation sparked lively discussions among the participants. The experts provided detailed explanations of the CAR-T bridging to HSCT treatment strategy for children with relapsed or refractory acute myeloid leukemia (AML), highlighting its significant potential in improving treatment outcomes and extending survival. Furthermore, they explored the challenges and advancements in using CD7 CAR-T therapy for relapsed and refractory T-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma (T-NHL). A successful case of treating refractory T-cell lymphoblastic lymphoma (T-LBL) with CD7 CAR-T therapy following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was also presented, offering attendees valuable practical insights and lessons.

In the field of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, GoBroad Healthcare Group also shared a wealth of experience. The latest research on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation for the treatment of NK/T-cell lymphoma and peripheral T-cell lymphoma highlighted the unique advantages of this technique in managing complex hematologic tumors. Of particular note is the innovative CAR-T bridging TCRαβ depletion transplantation strategy for children with relapsed or refractory acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), offering unprecedented hope to patients facing difficult treatment paths. Additionally, the 5-year follow-up results of CD19/22 CAR-T therapy for relapsed B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) post-transplantation were released, providing strong clinical evidence for the long-term efficacy and safety of CAR-T therapy, further supporting its broader application.

Moreover, the GoBroad diagnostic team provided an in-depth analysis of the application of molecular diagnostics in the clinical management of hematologic malignancies, highlighting the critical role of precision medicine in enhancing diagnostic accuracy and guiding the formulation of personalized treatment plans. As genetic testing technologies continue to advance, the diagnosis and treatment of hematologic malignancies are steadily progressing into a new era of individualization and precision.

 

 

 

Lymphoma Sub-forum

 

Focusing on Three Key Issues, Jointly Exploring the Application of ASCT in the Treatment of Lymphoma

As ASCT technology continues to evolve, it has become a crucial component in the treatment of lymphoma. Despite the emergence of new drugs, ASCT remains a key consolidation therapy for patients with high-risk and relapsed and refractory lymphoma. To delve deeper into this topic, a dedicated lymphoma sub-forum was organized at the summit, bringing together prominent experts from across the country.

The sub-forum centered on three major topics: identifying lymphoma patients suitable for ASCT, ASCT for central nervous system lymphoma, and the combination of CAR-T and ASCT for treating refractory lymphoma. Through in-depth analysis and discussion, along with real case studies from GoBroad Shanghai Zhaxin Hospital/Shanghai Liquan Hospital, experts comprehensively and systematically shared cutting-edge breakthroughs and invaluable clinical insights in the field of lymphoma transplantation to further optimize the clinical process for ASCT in lymphoma, providing patients with more precise and effective treatment options. The hope is to significantly improve patient survival and quality of life, while advancing lymphoma treatment to new heights.

 

 

Myeloma Sub-forum

 

Addressing Clinical Needs: Exploring Key Issues in Transplantation for Multiple Myeloma (MM)

While autologous stem cell transplantation (ASCT) has become a widely used treatment option for multiple myeloma (MM), clinicians still face significant challenges in practice. Key questions remain, such as: which MM patients are suitable candidates for transplantation? And, given the frequent occurrence of kidney damage in MM, is renal insufficiency a contraindication for transplantation?

To tackle these challenges, a conference was convened with 17 myeloma experts from across the country, focusing on clinical practices and pressing issues in MM treatment. Discussions centered on identifying suitable candidates for ASCT, defining indications for transplantation, and managing MM patients with renal insufficiency. The experts not only presented the latest research findings but also shared their extensive clinical experience. They offered valuable insights and practical recommendations on selecting MM patients for transplantation, optimizing preconditioning protocols to reduce transplant-related risks, and effectively managing patients with renal insufficiency during the transplantation. The forum aimed to provide more precise and personalized treatment options for high-risk MM patients, advancing the field of MM treatment, and equipping clinicians with scientific decision-making tools and practical guidelines for managing complex cases.

 

 

Nursing Sub-forum

 

Hematologic Nursing Experts Collaboratively Elevate the Standard of Transplant Care

The nursing sub-forum focused on the hotspots and challenges in hematologic transplant care, bringing together senior nursing experts from across the country for in-depth discussions. The forum was characterized by a strong academic atmosphere and active exchanges, injecting new energy into the advancement of hematologic transplant nursing in China. During the forum, the nursing team from GoBroad Shanghai Zhaxin Hospital/Shanghai Liquan Hospital shared valuable experiences and unique insights on transplant care for complex cases, including refractory angioimmunoblastic T-cell lymphoma, primary myelofibrosis, elderly AML with heart failure, and refractory AML with septic shock. The team also provided a thorough analysis of nursing strategies for the cutting-edge therapy of ASCT combined with CAR-T therapy, offering guidance and inspiration to nursing professionals. Additionally, special attention was given to the selection of vascular access for peripheral blood stem cell collection, a crucial discussion aimed at enhancing professional nursing skills and improving the patient care experience to ensure smooth treatment processes.

This exchange not only deepened the understanding of the complexities in hematologic transplant care but also ignited enthusiasm for innovation in nursing techniques and strategies. Through face-to-face discussions and idea-sharing, nursing participants were able to solve practical challenges, broaden their horizons, and enhance their professional growth.

 

Attendees Sharing Their Experiences

Participants unanimously expressed that the summit provided a valuable platform to explore the latest developments in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation technology. Through the sharing of detailed case studies, presentations of cutting-edge research, and deep academic exchanges, the forum greatly broadened their perspectives and enhanced their professional skills. The forum not only offered in-depth theoretical analysis but also incorporated specific clinical case applications, allowing attendees to gain a comprehensive and systematic grasp of the key aspects of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

 

Conclusion

The "GoBroad Healthcare Forum - The 4th Shanghai Seminar and Training session on Clinical Application of Autologous Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation" concluded with vibrant exchanges. Since its inception, the GoBroad Healthcare Group's Shanghai Zhaxin Hospital/Shanghai Liquan Hospital has been proactively building an ecosystem for academic exchanges, regularly hosting summits and training sessions, and innovatively establishing a "“Cloud Connectivity · Collaboratively Exploring Challenges" platform for case discussions, attracting nearly 3,000 hematologists nationwide. Led by Professor Wang Chun, the expert team combined deep theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience to engage in profound exchanges and collaborative research with colleagues from various regions. This grand event not only fostered a deep integration of theory and practice but also infused new vitality and momentum into the clinical practice of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in China. It holds significant importance in promoting academic exchanges, advancing technological progress, enhancing clinical diagnosis and treatment capabilities, and optimizing treatment plans for patients.