Engagement of leukocyte receptors by their ligands initiates complex intracellular signaling cascades that induce specific genetic programs leading to the differentiation, activation, and effector activities of cells of the immune system. Much has been learned in the last 20-25 years about the molecular nature of leukocyte signaling and the crosstalk among different receptors and between the adaptive and innate immune systems. Some of the most important current and future challenges are, first, to establish the biological relevance of the accumulated molecular and biochemical knowledge in the complex and multi-component context of animal disease models and, second, to translate this fundamental knowledge to the design of sound therapeutic approaches for immunological and other diseases.
The 7th Internationa Leukocyte Signal Transduction Conference will address these challenges by highlighting major recent developments in the leukocyte signal transduction field and their application to clinically relevant situations. To accomplish this goal, the Organizers will bring together a distinguished group of speakers, internationally known leaders in their respective fields, to present and discuss their recent research findings. Similar to its five predecessors that were launched since 2000, this workshop is organized to maximize scientific interactions, and to encourage the active participation of young scientists at the early stage of their career development. The Organizers plan to offer travel stipends to members of under-represented groups (women, ethnic/racial minorities, people with disabilities, and participants from developing countries) in order to encourage their participation. We look forward to welcoming you all to what promises to be another stimulating, productive and enjoyable meeting in a most conducive and relaxed environment.