Date: June 2–5, 2025
Venue: Park Inn by Radisson Danube, Bratislava
Project Manager: Jitka Puldová

At the beginning of June 2025, Bratislava became the epicenter of European scientific activity. The joint 53rd Congress of the EEMGS (European Environmental Mutagenesis and Genomics Society) and the 47th Annual Meeting of the CSSMC (Czech and Slovak Society for Mutagenesis and Carcinogenesis) attracted experts in genetic toxicology, molecular biology, and public health. The main theme, “Safeguarding Genomic Integrity: Bridging Science and Public Health in Environmental Mutagenesis,” emphasized the importance of connecting fundamental research with population-level impacts and regulatory practice.

Scientific Program
The congress began on Monday with the HESI GTTC workshop focused on quantitative dose-response analysis. It was followed by a keynote lecture from Prof. Silvia Pastoreková on the adaptation of tumor cells to hypoxia and acidosis.
Tuesday’s program centered on topics such as New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), occupational exposure, and environmental mutagenesis. The New Investigators session provided a platform for young scientists, including participants from the Czech Republic. Afternoon workshops included ICAWG (comet assay techniques) and EceToc (dose interpretation in mutagenicity).
Wednesday morning featured sessions on Mutamind (N-nitrosamine testing) and ecNGS (sensitive mutation detection using sequencing). After the presentation of the Frits Sobels Award and Early Career Award, keynote speaker Prof. Jiří Neužil delivered a lecture on the horizontal transfer of mitochondria as a potential tumor marker. The afternoon was dedicated to chemical mutagenesis and oncology.
Thursday concluded the event with final lectures, presentations on OECD test guidelines, topics on nanoparticles, and hybrid workshops focused on in vitro methods. The day ended with a closing ceremony and awards presentation.

Social Program
The welcome reception on Monday evening and the guided tour of Bratislava on Tuesday contributed to the welcoming atmosphere of the event. Wednesday’s gala dinner offered a relaxed setting for informal discussions, sharing experiences, and fostering international collaborations.

Conclusion
EEMGS 2025 demonstrated the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation and the relevance of genomic safety. The combination of scientific excellence, expert discussion, and cultural experience created an inspiring environment for further research and collaboration across Europe.

Special thanks go to Project Manager Jitka Puldová and her team, the speakers, participants, and all partners who contributed to the smooth running of the congress and the creation of a friendly and stimulating atmosphere.