One-third of cancer patients will experience recurrence and succumb within five years of diagnosis, despite an encouraging initial response to therapy. Over the past decade, a rare subset of cells known as cancer persister cells has emerged as a significant factor in treatment failure. Unlike resistant cells, which harbour genetic alterations enabling survival despite therapy, persister cells exhibit transient drug tolerance through reversible, non-mutational mechanisms. 

This burgeoning field has rapidly expanded since its inception 13 years ago, revealing the involvement of persister cells across various cancer types and treatment modalities. The upcoming meeting will bring together investigators to delve into molecular mechanisms, therapeutic targets and emerging clinical implications of cancer persister cells, fostering collaboration and community-building in this pivotal rapidly growing area of research.

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