Biology of B Cell Responses joint with Prophylactic and Therapeutic Antibodies Organizer(s): Hedda Wardemann, Michael G. McHeyzer-Williams and Michel C. Nussenzweig Date: February 09 - 14, 2014 Location: Keystone Resort, Keystone, CO, USAThe requirements and processes relevant for the induction of protective B cell responses remain largely unclear, and inefficient or deregulated B cell responses are frequently associated with the development of diseases. The goal of this meeting is to deepen our understanding of the factors and mechanisms controlling and regulating B cell development, differentiation and activation under steady-state conditions and in autoimmunity, infection and B cell tumors. The specific aims are to: 1) Identify factors involved in the developmental programming and function of B cells; 2) Elucidate the mechanisms relevant for the establishment and maintenance of B cell self-tolerance; 3) Define how B cell responses are initiated and regulated; 4) Provide insight into the mechanisms and dynamics underlying germinal center responses; and 5) Establish the link between immunoglobulin gene diversification and B cell tumor development. The meeting will provide a platform for early-stage and established researchers to engage in interactive discussions on all aspects of the biology of B cell responses from B cell evolution to basic principles of B cell biology and human B cell immunology. It will thereby facilitate and booster the exchange of ideas and the initiation of collaborative research on B cells at an international level. Interactions will be fostered across disciplines. Access to the parallel meeting on “Prophylactic and Therapeutic Antibodies” will provide all attendees with the unique opportunity to engage in expanded interdisciplinary interaction with translational scientists from academia and industry. Scholarship Deadline: October 16 2013 Discounted Abstract Deadline: October 16 2013 Abstract Deadline: November 14 2013 Discounted Registration Deadline: December 10 2013 We gratefully acknowledge additional support for this conference from:  We gratefully acknowledge the generous grant for this conference provided by: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)Grant No. 1R13AI109612-01 The views expressed in written conference materials or publications and by speakers and moderators do not necessarily reflect the official policies of the Department of Health and Human Services; nor does mention of trade names, commercial practices, or organizations imply endorsement by the U.S. Government. |