Synaptic Dysfunction and Neurodegeneration

Neurodegenerative and neurodevelomental diseases represent a major scientific challenge for the biomedical research community and a growing public health problem. Advances in human genetics and the identification of causative genes have allowed the application of modern biological tools to study the disease mechanisms. As a result it has become increasingly clear that pathogenesis of these complex brain disorders are not as simple as previously thought. This GRC intends to bring together investigators who are at the forefront of the field to present and discuss their latest findings and concepts. The Conference will feature a wide range but related topics that are relevant to disease mechanisms, such as synaptic dysfunction, autophagy, protein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial biology, and RNA binding proteins. Invited speakers represent a wide variety of scientific disciplines, including genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, electrophysiology, imaging and systems biology. The Conference will also provide opportunities for junior scientists and graduate students to present their work in poster sessions and interact informally with leaders in the field. The collegial atmosphere and the ample free time in the afternoons and late evenings provide ideal settings for participants from different disciplines to brainstorm and establish interdisciplinary collaborations.