Understanding Cell Behavior and Communication

Recent years have brought rapid advances in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying pancreatic development, regeneration, and malignant transformation, as well as our ability to model these processes in mice and human cells. These studies have revealed lineage relationships between the different pancreatic cell types and plasticity in response to environmental influences. Moreover, epidemiological studies show a clear association between pancreatic diseases, in particular between diabetes and pancreatic cancer. Yet, the mechanisms involved in the co-occurrence of pancreatic diseases are poorly understood. This GRC aims to link the understanding of the biology of the exocrine and endocrine pancreas to applications for human diseases. This conference is unique in that it convenes experts from all aspects of pancreas biology as well as clinicians working on translational approaches for diabetes, pancreatic cancer, and pancreatitis. By providing a forum for the presentation and discussion of cutting-edge, unpublished concepts and approaches, the goal of this GRC is to stimulate discussion across disciplines. This exchange will foster interdisciplinary approaches and promote the exchange of ideas to lead to new collaborations, as well as empower young scientists to showcase their work to peers and leaders in the field.

The upcoming fifth Pancreatic Diseases GRC will focus on understanding cell behavior and communication in pancreatic diseases with the goal of gaining insights into how the systemic and local environment impact endocrine and exocrine cells in health and disease. The program that has been assembled is first-rate, benefitting from the contribution of international world-class scientists engaged in research relevant to different aspects of pancreatic diseases. The ultimate goal of the conference is the identification of novel concepts in pancreatic diseases that might be exploitable for pharmacological and cell-based therapeutic approaches. As for all GRCs, the guiding principle of this conference is the presentation of new, unpublished results and the free, unhampered discussion that follows. Participation of young scientists is especially emphasized, with opportunities for short talks and poster presentations.