Published on July 21, 2025
ASTCT's Journal Turns 30: Celebrating Progress and Pioneers
by David Porter, MD
Dear ASTCT Members:
We are now in the full swing of summer, and for many, this is a time of slowing down. Perhaps you are taking a vacation and reading a good book. If the latter, I encourage you to take your latest copy of Transplantation and Cellular Therapy to the beach!
Okay, perhaps this isn’t the best choice for a light summer vacation read. However, I’m highlighting the journal this month for several reasons. Remember, it is our society's journal, designed to have the very best science and clinical reports, which are so important to all of our members. This year, Transplantation and Cellular Therapy is celebrating our 30th anniversary of publishing cutting-edge research.
Originally, as you may remember, the journal was named Biology of Blood and Marrow Transplantation. We changed that name in 2021 to align with the evolving nature of our society and our field. We've since been rebuilding our name recognition and our momentum. Initially, the name change affected our impact factor, but as of last month, I'm pleased to share that our impact factor has jumped nearly a full point. That shows the continued influence of our publication.
For 24 of the 30 years we've been publishing, our colleague Dr. Robert Korngold has been at the journal's helm as the editor. Since 2001, Bob has provided incredible leadership and dedication, as well as vision and commitment to shape the journal into what it is today. Next year, we should have special recognition for his 25th anniversary.
I hope you take time to peruse the recent issue of the journal — the hard copy or digital version — and consider submission, as there have been some very important updates. Notably, we've introduced a new article category called “Research Communications.” These are to be structured as letters to the editor and are designed to be clear and concise, focusing on significant findings or insights that are highly relevant to the field. They're intended for high impact, though perhaps briefer, results of scientific importance. Importantly, these submissions are eligible for expedited review and rapid publication. I would encourage you to consider this format when you come across an important finding that you think deserves timely dissemination.
Remember, this is your society and your journal, and the best way to disseminate your important research to your colleagues is to consider publishing.
As you read, please look through the series started by our colleagues Keith Sullivan and Steve Forman, titled “Reflections and Profiles of a Pioneer.” We've been publishing this series for two years now, since July 2023. Reflections capture the more human aspect of what we all do. I think you'll find them both inspirational and heartwarming. Profiles of Pioneers highlights the careers of some of the true giants in our field, which give a remarkable perspective on the history of transplant and cell therapy and on the lives and work of the pioneers who made it all happen.
Additionally, I want to remind you and your trainees of our yearly ASTCT Editorial Awards, which recognize young investigators. These awards fall into three categories: Clinical Science, the George Santos Award; Basic Science, the Ernest McCulloch and James Till Award; and Clinical Science and Cellular Therapy, the Robert Korngold Award. The prize for each of these is $6,000, and winners are recognized with a presentation and talk at our annual meeting next year in Salt Lake City.
Thank you for taking the time to read this message and the journal. I hope you take a moment to check it out, even if not for your summer beach reading. Additionally, I hope everyone has time to do what they most enjoy this summer. Until next time, take care.
Thank you, and please stay involved in your society.
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