The Anniversary Distinguished Lectures, as part of a series of events to celebrate the 24^th Anniversary of M.U.S.T., held “Inflammation in Human Health and Disease: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly” on the afternoon of March 26, 2024, at N101 Hall of M.U.S.T. Professor Michael Karin, Member of the US National Academy of Sciences, Member of the National Academy of Medicine, renowned pharmacologist and pathologist and a Honorary Doctor of Medicine of M.U.S.T. was invited to deliver the lecture. Vice-President, Chair Professor Paul Tam Kwong Hang welcomed and thanked Professor Michael Karin for giving a keynote speech to our students and teachers. The lecture was broadcast live simultaneously on the online platform. Distinguished guests from M.U.S.T. who attended the lecture include Joseph Hun-wei LEE, Vice-Chancellor and President; Paul Tam Kwong Hang, Vice-President; TANG Kuan Meng Jose, member of the University Council; members of the Advisory Committee, and representatives of faculties and institutes, teachers and students.

(From right) Vice-President, Chair Professor Paul Tam Kwong Hang presented a souvenir to Professor Michael Karin

Inflammation once considered a straightforward immune response, was explored as a multifaceted phenomenon crucial to human health and disease. Professor Karin, a renowned expert in inflammation and cancer research, delved into his groundbreaking discoveries that unveiled the intricate roles of inflammation, from its beneficial aspects to its detrimental effects.

Professor Michael Karin gave a distinguished lecture

The lecture highlighted key findings from Professor Karin's research, which provided the missing link between inflammation and the development of cancer. Additionally, Professor Karin discussed how inflammation, particularly in the gastrointestinal tract, was linked to the progression from non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (fatty liver disease) to hepatocellular carcinoma (liver cancer).

During the Q&A session, M.U.S.T. medical students took the opportunity to learn more about Professor Karin’s work, asking questions on the link between the microbiome and the development of cancer, as well as the potential role that artificial intelligence can play in future research and treatment. The distinguished lecture provided a unique opportunity for medical professionals, researchers, and the public to gain insight into the latest advancements in inflammation research and its profound impact on human health.

Group Photo of the Anniversary Distinguished Lectures