From 6 to 10 September 2025, Vienna hosted the 37th European Congress of Pathology (ECP 2025), one of the largest international gatherings dedicated to this medical discipline. Experts from around the world came together to discuss the latest advances in diagnosis, research, and treatment.
A Leading Congress in Pathology
Organized by the European Society of Pathology (ESP) and the Austrian Society for Clinical and Molecular Pathology (ÖGPath), the congress featured a rich program including plenary lectures, interactive seminars, thematic sessions, and scientific presentations. The 2025 edition, under the theme “Tradition meets future”, highlighted how pathology, as a constantly evolving discipline, remains central to medical innovation.
The Role of the Microbiome in Lung Cancer
During a session dedicated to pulmonary pathology, Professor Paul Hofman, director of IHU RespirERA, presented a lecture on “Impact of microbiome in lung cancer carcinogenesis”.
His presentation emphasized that the lung microbiome – the collection of microorganisms present in the lungs – plays a key role in the development of certain cancers. Imbalances in this microbiome can promote inflammation and facilitate the emergence of cancerous cells. These findings open the way to new preventive and targeted treatment strategies focused on these microbes. A better understanding of the lung microbiome could therefore improve the fight against respiratory cancers.
IHU RespirERA, a key actor in pulmonary pathology research
Professor Hofman’s participation in this international congress highlights IHU RespirERA’s commitment to actively contribute to global scientific discussions and advance knowledge on respiratory diseases. His recognized expertise in thoracic pathology and biomarkers further strengthens the institute’s position as a leading actor in respiratory health research.
