Neurodegenerative diseases remain one of the main concerns for aging populations across the world. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases thus remains a priority for developing effective therapeutics to combat them. Recent genetic studies linked to these diseases have pointed to functional defects in several key cellular organelles and pathways that appear to drive neurodegeneration, including endolysosomal, mitochondrial and synaptic dysfunctions. However, there is still much to be learned regarding the precise roles of these pathways in disease progression, their contribution to neuronal vulnerability, and how to effectively target these pathways in patients. Important mechanistic themes in neurodegenerative disease include the genetics of neuro-immune interactions, the involvement of synaptic molecular events, the role of endolysosomal, autophagic and mitochondrial dysfunction, the potential contribution of dynamic inter-organelle contact sites in neurons, and translational considerations including the use of biomarkers and gene therapy. The goal of this conference is to bring together fundamental basic scientists who are experts in these areas of cell biology, together with clinicians and medical researchers, and scientists investigating therapeutic strategies for neurodegeneration. By combining these different fields of expertise, this conference will stimulate cross-fertilization, in-depth interactions and insightful discussions on disease pathogenesis and strategies for advancing drug development for neurodegenerative disorders. Finally, this conference is being paired with a conference on Neuro-Immune Interactions in the Central Nervous System. This combination will be beneficial in that it will emphasize the crossover between neurodegeneration and neuroimmunology. As neuroimmunology is a recently reinvigorated field, this meeting will provide a critical opportunity to foster cross-disciplinary thinking.
https://www.nature.com/naturecareers/events/event/keystone-symposia-95435
Neurodegeneration: The Biological Pathways Driving the Future of Therapeutic Development
