Conference Description
Bringing
together the future leaders with current senior scientists working at the
forefront of innovative research in medical mycology and fungal immunology, the
Gordon Research Seminar on Immunology of Fungal Infections is a uniquely
designed opportunity for graduate students, post-docs and young faculty from
around the globe to foster future networks, collaborations and exchange new data and cutting edge
ideas.
Fungal diseases,
caused by a variety of different fungal species infecting plants and vertebrates,
are on the rise and pose a growing threat to global health and economy. In humans, fungal infections, caused by
endogenous and environmental species, mainly occur in individuals with
compromised immune status. Here, they can develop into life-threatening
invasive infections with high mortality rate.
The initial induction, the fine-tuning and the maintenance of a balanced
immune response are key to the resolution of an infection. In this context, recent research has highlighted
important aspects of fungal recognition by host cells, and the subsequent induction
of innate and adaptive responses, but also fungal strategies to counteract this
defence system. Moreover, additional features that modulate the hosts' defence,
which include cell metabolism, nutritional immunity, innate imprinting and the
influence of the host microbiota on host-pathogen interactions have risen. This Gordon Research Seminar will focus on these
recent insights into the complex interplay between the host and pathogen. The
program will discuss fundamental concepts and new advances in the field and
will give a unique opportunity for young scientists to engage with the fungal
immunology community.
