The hands on workshop on “Cancer biomarkers in clinical research and development” started with a guest lecture by Dr. Elumalai Perumal, Scientist- Research co-ordinator, Central Research Laboratory, Meenakshi Medical College, hospital and research institute. The lecture focused on the fundamentals of cancer biomarkers and the technological advancements in biomarker discovery and its clinical applications. The lecture was followed by hands on training by Dr. Paramasivam, Research Scientist, Dental Research Cell. Students and faculty members were trained to isolate RNA from blood sample, followed by conversion into cDNA and quantification using real time PCR. The results of each of the procedure and trouble-shooting were explained in detail. Post graduate students, interns, research scholars and faculty members from various institutions such as Anna University, Sathyabama dental college, Adiparasakthi Dental College, Chettinad dental college etc., participated in the workshop. The students were enlightened about the gene expression patterns with a special emphasize on cancer biomarkers. The positive feedbacks from the students and faculty members were very encouraging.
