Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are a ubiquitous super-family of enzymes playing a major role in cell signaling by hydrolyzing the second messengers, cAMP and cGMP. Due to their structural diversity and specific tissue distribution at the cellular and subcellular levels, PDEs can selectively regulate various cellular functions. The central role of PDEs in regulating cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways has placed this class of enzymes in the spotlight as therapeutic targets for a number of diseases.

The sixth Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases Conference will provide a forum to present the latest advances in research on the mechanism of the various families of PDEs in modulating tissue-specific intracellular signaling and to discuss unsolved and promising new directions for therapeutic applications of selective PDE inhibitors. As in past meetings, clinician scientists, molecular and cellular biologists, and other experts representing the pharma/biotech industries, research institutes, and academia will come together to discuss the central importance of PDEs in regulation of cyclic nucleotide signaling pathways in health and disease.

Topics to be covered in this year’s meeting include: understanding the biology and therapeutic potential of PDE regulation in lower organisms; compartmentation of cyclic nucleotide signaling by subcellular localization of PDEs; latest discoveries in the structure of - and drug binding to - the active site of PDEs; involvement of PDEs in CNS processes including psychiatric diseases; transcriptional and translational regulation of PDE expression; emerging approaches for studying PDEs and cyclic nucleotide signaling dynamics in vivo; latest research on the utility and limitations of PDE inhibitors in the cardiovascular system; allosteric regulation of the PDE holoenzyme; PDE inhibitor therapy targeted to the immune system.

In addition to the invited speakers, participants (especially young researchers) will have the opportunity to present their newest, unpublished work in poster sessions. A few of the most exciting posters will be selected for oral presentation.