The 18th International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma (ICML), hosted by the Institute of Oncology Research (IOR), was held from June 17 to 21, 2025, in Lugano, Switzerland. As the world’s premier biennial gathering in hematologic oncology, ICML 2025 welcomed thousands of hematologists, clinical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and basic researchers. The event fostered dynamic discussions on lymphoma pathogenesis, translational science, and innovations in clinical care.Oncology Frontier – Hematology Frontier invited Professor Jun Zhu of Peking University Cancer Hospital to provide expert insights into the latest developments in China–Europe collaborative lymphoma research and to share a forward-looking perspective on strategic global partnerships.
Oncology Frontier – Hematology Frontier: The UCLI–ICML Joint Session highlighted exciting research from both China and Europe. What were the most notable Chinese and European advances presented at this year’s meeting, and what is their broader significance for global lymphoma research?
Prof. Jun Zhu: It is an honor to return to picturesque Lugano for the 18th ICML and to join esteemed colleagues from around the world in this academic celebration. As the most influential international platform for lymphoma research, ICML 2025 showcased landmark progress from across the globe. Notably, the Chinese delegation participated with unprecedented scope, sharing the latest findings through oral presentations, poster sessions, and dedicated panels.
Of particular significance was the News from Europe and China joint session—an annual highlight of the conference in recent years. This forum offered a comprehensive review of collaborative achievements between Chinese and European investigators in precision lymphoma care, encompassing diagnostic innovation, therapeutic refinement, and translational research.
Within the broader framework of global medical collaboration, China and Europe have established a robust, multilayered research network via academic platforms such as ICML and EHA. On the clinical research front, joint multi-center trials are progressing steadily, with Chinese researchers contributing deeply to initiatives such as the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group (IELSG). In drug development, several novel therapies independently developed by Chinese biopharmaceutical companies are undergoing simultaneous clinical trials in China and Europe, with some new data being presented at this conference.
These high-level academic exchanges promote mutual learning and innovation, especially in accelerating the global availability of new treatments. Through this summit, I hope we can further strengthen the China–Europe strategic partnership in lymphoma research and jointly shape the future of precision oncology.
Oncology Frontier – Hematology Frontier: The joint session itself stands as a symbol of successful collaboration. Could you share an example of a particularly impactful China–Europe partnership in lymphoma research that you’ve personally participated in or closely observed? What made it successful, and how did it address critical challenges in the field?
Prof. Jun Zhu: The China–Europe partnership in lymphoma research has evolved from broad collaboration to deep integration, largely thanks to the sustained efforts of international academic platforms and the leadership of European scholars such as Professor Franco Cavalli, Chair of ICML. Our collaborations span multiple domains: joint education and training programs, co-designed research projects, and increasingly intensive clinical trials.
One standout example is the cooperative development of Bruton’s tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitors. Innovative agents such as zanubrutinib and orelabrutinib—independently developed in China—have entered global trials with the support of European partners. This model of cooperation accelerates clinical translation and facilitates international harmonization of lymphoma treatment strategies.
Oncology Frontier – Hematology Frontier: Compared to Europe, what are the biggest challenges currently facing China in the field of lymphoma basic research and clinical translation? What targeted strategies are being employed? Looking ahead, what areas of China–Europe cooperation hold the greatest promise?
Prof. Jun Zhu: In recent years, China’s rapid progress in biomedicine has energized global collaboration. Over the past two decades, Chinese pharmaceutical companies have achieved breakthroughs in both biologics and small-molecule targeted therapies. Today, China is driving innovation in monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, ADCs, and novel small-molecule inhibitors. Through platforms like ICML, these advances are being shared with the world, fostering a dynamic ecosystem of joint research and discovery.
However, we must also acknowledge the gaps that remain. In basic research, our pathology and molecular diagnostics infrastructure requires further enhancement—especially in emerging technologies such as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) liquid biopsy and PET-CT radiomics. Europe’s experience in translational medicine provides valuable lessons.
Additionally, disparities in healthcare resources across China lead to inconsistent implementation of standardized care. This is evident in areas such as pathological classification, molecular subtyping, and the deployment of AI-assisted diagnostic tools.
Looking to the future, I am confident that Chinese researchers—through open exchange and a strong commitment to innovation—will continue to deepen international collaboration. By objectively assessing current limitations while maintaining strategic confidence, we can further expand the dimensions of China–Europe research synergy and deliver real benefits to patients worldwide.
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Expert Profile: Professor Jun Zhu
- Affiliation: Peking University Cancer Hospital
- Positions:
- Party Secretary of Peking University Cancer Hospital
- Chair of the Department of Internal Medicine
- Director of the Lymphoma Department
Professional Leadership Roles:
- Vice President, Chinese Society of Clinical Oncology (CSCO)
- Deputy Supervisor, CSCO Supervisory Board
- Vice Chair, Beijing Xisike Clinical Oncology Research Foundation
- Former Chair, CSCO Lymphoma Expert Committee
- Vice President, Beijing Anti-Cancer Association
- President, Beijing Cancer Rehabilitation Society
- Vice Chair, Chinese Medical Association Oncology Branch
- Chair, Hematologic Malignancies Subcommittee, National Health Commission Expert Committee on Capacity Building and Continuing Education in Oncology
