B Cells: Mechanisms in Immunity and Autoimmunity Organizer(s): Lars Nitschke, Michael Reth, Roberta Pelanda and David M. Tarlinton Date: June 17 - 21, 2018
Location: Maritim Hotel & International Congress Center Dresden, Dresden, GermanyB cells play an important role in immunity and immunology research. New findings about the relevance and contribution of B cells to autoimmunity have rejuvenated interest in B cell immunology research. B cell functions unrelated to the production of antibodies have also been recently uncovered, indicating B cells operate in the context of both humoral and cellular adaptive immune responses. These B cell properties have stimulated a plethora of studies aimed at discovering the molecular mechanisms of B cell development and diversification, B cell activation, B cell memory responses and B cell tolerance induction. Affinity maturation of antibodies within the germinal center is now considered to be more complex than previously thought. The generation of broadly neutralizing antibodies against viruses in a few, but not all individuals, and the generation of autoantibodies during germinal center responses, have challenged existing dogmas. B cell metabolism and its intersection with the microbiome are stimulating and exciting areas only now beginning to be explored. Antibody-independent functions of B cells, for example in secreting inflammatory or regulatory cytokines, suggest B cells are relevant in many inflammatory and allergic diseases. This conference aims to address the mechanisms of B cell activation, B cell differentiation and B cell responses, and the contribution of B cells to the development of autoimmune diseases. Potential new treatment options for these diseases will also be covered. Scholarship Deadline: February 14 2018 Discounted Abstract Deadline: February 14 2018 Abstract Deadline: March 14 2018 Discounted Registration Deadline: April 17 2018 We gratefully acknowledge the generous grant for this conference provided by: National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)Grant No. 1R13AI138574-01 Funding for this conference was made possible (in part) by 1R13AI138574-01 from the National Institutes of Health. 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. |