B cells represent a diverse set of cells that are important for both immune protection and immunopathogenesis, which in turn are mediated by diverse B cell functions such as antibodies, cytokines that B cells produce, and antigen-presenting cell functions of B cells that drive T cell activation. B-T cell interactions are increasingly recognized as critical contributors to both autoimmunity and lymphomagenesis.  Novel approaches to target B cells via such T cell interactions are having a strong impact on the treatment of B cell malignancies and, more recently, autoimmune diseases. Given the rapidly expanding knowledge of both basic B cell biology and the emerging impact of B cell targeting in disease, there is an urgent need to bring together these areas.

This Keystone Symposia conference on B Cells in Health and Disease will aim to (1) spotlight emerging concepts in basic B cell immune response biology, (2) explore newly appreciated B cell populations that are dysregulated in autoimmune contexts, (3) discuss clinical results of using B cell targeting approaches in malignancy, vaccinology, and autoimmunity, and (4) synthesize basic insights that can uncover new targets and approaches to modify B cell immune responses and their consequences.

Attendees will come from diverse backgrounds and leave with a synthesis of cutting-edge insights into B cell biology and targets. This environment will in turn catalyze new collaborations and approaches to study and reprogram B cells in health and disease. The juxtaposition of this conference with the Keystone Symposia conference on B and T Cell Collaboration in Health and Disease is ideal, as many of the pathogenic functions and novel subsets of B cells relate to T cells. In addition, T cells are called on as effectors in multiple strategies to deplete pathogenic and malignant B cells.

Few meetings combine the pre-clinical and translational aspects of B cell biology. This conference promises to bring together related audiences across academia and industry, including basic B cell biologists, translational and clinical researchers, small biotechs with innovative concepts, and large pharma with long-term interests in lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and B cell lymphoma. Due to the rapid developments across these areas this conference is exceptionally timely.

Unique Career Development Opportunities

This meeting will feature a Career Roundtable where trainees and early-career investigators will have the opportunity to interact with field leaders from across academic and industry sectors for essential career development advice and networking opportunities. Find out more about Career Roundtables here: https://www.keystonesymposia.org/diversity/career-development-initiatives