Select Biosciences Conferences 2010
January 20 - 21, 2010 Stem Cells World Congress
San Francisco, CA, USA Further information
4th annual Stem Cells World Congress and exhibition. There will be two parallel tracks focused specifically on: (1) Stem Cells in Drug Discovery and Development and (2) Regenerative Medicine
February 11 - 12, 2010 Screening Europe
Barcelona, Spain Further information
7th annual Screening Europe conference and exhibition, claimed to be the largest screening event in Europe with four conference rooms in 2010. Novel Screening Platforms and Drug Discovery Methods, High Content Screening, Fragment Based Screening, Label Free Screening, Enzymes as Drug Targets, Receptors as Drug Targets
Suggested reading: Biology Books
March 4 - 5, 2010 Advances in Synthetic Biology
London, UK Further information
3rd annual Advances in Synthetic Biology conference and exhibition. Synthetic biology is the design and construction of new biological parts, devices and systems (and the re-design of existing, natural biological systems) for useful purposes. Its interdisciplinary nature between science and engineering, as well as the many potential applications in the health, material and energy sectors, make this a particularly interesting conference.
April 8 - 9, 2010 ADMET Europe
Munich, Germany Further information
3rd annual ADMET Europe conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Microdosing, Metabonomics, Hepatotoxicity, In-vivo and in-vitro set-ups, In-silico techniques
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
April 8 - 9, 2010 Advances in Synthetic Chemistry
Munich, Germany Further information
3rd annual Advances in Synthetic Chemistry conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Advances in Synthesis, Techniques and Technologies, Flow Chemistry, Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis
April 8 - 9, 2010 MedChem Europe
Munich, Germany Further information
6th annual MedChem Europe conference and exhibition. The conference will be co-located with Advances in Synthetic Chemistry, ADMET Europe and Pharma Outsourcing Congress. Agenda Topics: Compound Management, Chemogenomics, Fragment Based Lead Detection, Formulation
April 8 - 9, 2010 Pharma Outsourcing Congress
Munich, Germany Further information
2nd annual Pharma Outsourcing Congress. The congress will focus on Outsourcing Drug Discovery and Clinical Trials.
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
May 5 - 7, 2010 RNAi and miRNA World Congress
Boston, MA, UK Further information
4th annual RNAi and miRNA World Congress. Agenda Topics: Target Discovery and Validation, Transfection, in vivo RNAi, siRNA library screens, microRNAs
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
May 6 - 7, 2010 Epigenetics World Congress
Boston, MA, UK Further information
2nd annual Epigenetics World Congress. The conference will be co-located with the RNAi and miRNA World Congress and Genomics Automation Congress.
Suggested reading: Epigenetics
May 6 - 7, 2010 Genomics Automation Congress
Boston, MA, UK Further information
The inaugural Genomics Automation Congress. Agenda Topics: Sample Preparation and Storage, Liquid Handling and Sample Management, Next Generation Sequencing Reactions, Alternative Sequencing Techniques, Data Handling and Analysis
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
May 25 - 26, 2010 Lab-on-a-Chip European Congress
Dublin, Ireland Further information
4th annual Lab-on-a-Chip European Congress, designed to review existing and new life science applications of microfluidic technologies.
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Fabrication and Microfluidics
May 25 - 26, 2010 Advances in Microarray Technology
Dublin, Ireland Further information
6th annual Advances in Microarray Technology (AMT) conference where you will hear about the latest developments and applications in the rapidly expanding field of microarrays.
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Biomolecular Separation and Analysis
May 25 - 26, 2010 Single Cell Analysis Congress
Dublin, Ireland Further information
The inaugural Single Cell Analysis Congress. The conference will be co-located with the Lab-on-a-Chip European Congress, Advances in Microarray Technology and Advances in BioDetection Technologies.
May 25 - 26, 2010 Advances in BioDetection Technologies
Dublin, Ireland Further information
3rd annual Advances in BioDetection Technologies conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Next Generation Biosensors and Biodetection Techniques, Point of Care and Field Ready Pathogen Detection Devices, Nucleic Acid Diagnostics Tests>
June 8 - 9, 2010 Cancer Proteomics
Berlin, Germany Further information
3rd annual Cancer Proteomics conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Signalling and Systems Biology, Cancer Diagnosis and Analysis Using Arrays, Using Proteomics for the Development of Cancer Therapeutics, Biomarker Discovery Using Proteomics
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
June 8 - 9, 2010 Advances in Antibody and Peptide Therapeutics
Berlin, Germany Further information
The inaugural Advances in Antibody and Peptide Therapeutics conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
July 8 - 9, 2010 AgriGenomics World Congress
Brussels, Belgium Further information
The third annual AgriGenomics World Congress. AgriGenomics is the detailed study of the genetic makeup of plants and how all the genes work together to produce the crop. Recently there has been great interest in genetically engineering plants to optimize yields and their use in bio-fuels. There is also focus on the alteration of certain genes to increase plant resistance towards disease and infection. So, now is a good time for scientists, business people, bio-ethicists and patent experts from around the globe to come together and catch up with the latest developments in this fast expanding field.
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
August 24 - 25, 2010 Stem Cells Europe
Edinburgh, UK Further information
3rd annual Stem Cells Europe conference. The agenda will reflect the dynamic nature of the field as we move from fundamental stem cell research towards clinical therapies.
August 24 - 25, 2010 World Biobanking Summit
Edinburgh, UK Further information
2nd annual World Biobanking Summit and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Sample Collection and Storage, Automation, Quality Assurance, Bioethics and Regulations, Harmonization and Standardization
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
August 24 - 25, 2010 Cellular Therapy Summit
Edinburgh, UK Further information
The inaugural Cellular Therapy Summit>
September 14 - 15, 2010 RNAi and miRNA Europe
Dublin, Ireland Further information
7th annual RNAi and miRNA Europe, claimed to be Europe\'s largest conference and exhibition dedicated to RNA interference.
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
September 14 - 15, 2010 Advances in qPCR
Dublin, Ireland Further information
3rd annual Advances in qPCR conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: qPCR in Diagnostics, Detection of Tumour Cells, microRNA/siRNA Applications, High Resolution Melt, Chip / location analysis, Single Cell qPCR, BioStatistics and Bioinformatics, Expression Profiling
Suggested reading: Real-Time PCR: Current Technology and Applications
September 14 - 15, 2010 Epigenetics Europe
Dublin, Ireland Further information
The inaugural Epigenetics Europe conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Epigenetics
September 14 - 15, 2010 Genomics Automation Europe
Dublin, Ireland Further information
The inaugural Genomics Automation Europe conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
October 27 - 27, 2010 Single Cell Analysis Summit
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
The inaugural one-day Single Cell Analysis Summit, to be held in La Jolla, San Diego. t will be held the day prior to the conferences Lab-on-a-Chip World Congress, Microarray World Congress, Molecular Diagnostics World Congress and Critical Assessment of Massive Data Analysis.
October 28 - 29, 2010 Lab-on-a-Chip World Congress
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
2nd annual Lab-on-a-Chip World Congress. Agenda Topics: Point-of-care diagnostics, New applications, Advances in microfabrication and engineering
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Fabrication and Microfluidics
October 28 - 29, 2010 Microarray World Congress
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
2nd annual Microarray World Congress where you will hear about the latest developments and applications in the rapidly expanding field of microarrays.
October 28 - 29, 2010 Molecular Diagnostics World Congress
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
3rd annual Molecular Diagnostics World Congress.
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Biomolecular Separation and Analysis
October 28 - 29, 2010 Critical Assessment of Massive Data Analysis
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
More and more genome-wide assays, which previously could only be performed cost-effectively by microarrays, now can also been performed by using next-generation sequencing and with better resolution and sensitivity. However, translating the massive next-generation sequencing data, into meaningful results, faces new challenges. CAMDA2010 will offer a forum for the researchers from computer science, statistics, molecular biology, and other areas to exchange ideas, and critical evaluation of various techniques of analyzing next-generation sequencing data.
November 9 - 10, 2010 Advances in Metabolic Profiling
Florence, Italy Further information
6th annual Advances in Metabolic Profiling conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
November 9 - 10, 2010 Mass Spec Europe
Florence, Italy Further information
2nd annual Mass Spec Europe conference and exhibition.
November 9 - 10, 2010 European Biomarkers Summit
Florence, Italy Further information
5th annual European Biomarkers Summit. Agenda Topics: Disease Specific Biomarkers, Biomarkers in Genomics, Metabolomics and Translational Medicine, Molecular Diagnostics, Personalized Medicine and Pharmacodiagnostics, Biomarker Assay Development
November 9 - 10, 2010 Advances in Protein Crystallography
Florence, Italy Further information
6th annual Advances in Protein Crystallography conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Protein Chemistry and Crystallization, New Laboratory Instrumentation and Techniques, Advances in Diffraction Techniques and Crystallographic Computing, New Drug Target Structures and their Analysis>
San Francisco, CA, USA Further information
4th annual Stem Cells World Congress and exhibition. There will be two parallel tracks focused specifically on: (1) Stem Cells in Drug Discovery and Development and (2) Regenerative Medicine
February 11 - 12, 2010 Screening Europe
Barcelona, Spain Further information
7th annual Screening Europe conference and exhibition, claimed to be the largest screening event in Europe with four conference rooms in 2010. Novel Screening Platforms and Drug Discovery Methods, High Content Screening, Fragment Based Screening, Label Free Screening, Enzymes as Drug Targets, Receptors as Drug Targets
Suggested reading: Biology Books
March 4 - 5, 2010 Advances in Synthetic Biology
London, UK Further information
3rd annual Advances in Synthetic Biology conference and exhibition. Synthetic biology is the design and construction of new biological parts, devices and systems (and the re-design of existing, natural biological systems) for useful purposes. Its interdisciplinary nature between science and engineering, as well as the many potential applications in the health, material and energy sectors, make this a particularly interesting conference.
April 8 - 9, 2010 ADMET Europe
Munich, Germany Further information
3rd annual ADMET Europe conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Microdosing, Metabonomics, Hepatotoxicity, In-vivo and in-vitro set-ups, In-silico techniques
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
April 8 - 9, 2010 Advances in Synthetic Chemistry
Munich, Germany Further information
3rd annual Advances in Synthetic Chemistry conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Advances in Synthesis, Techniques and Technologies, Flow Chemistry, Microwave-Assisted Organic Synthesis
April 8 - 9, 2010 MedChem Europe
Munich, Germany Further information
6th annual MedChem Europe conference and exhibition. The conference will be co-located with Advances in Synthetic Chemistry, ADMET Europe and Pharma Outsourcing Congress. Agenda Topics: Compound Management, Chemogenomics, Fragment Based Lead Detection, Formulation
April 8 - 9, 2010 Pharma Outsourcing Congress
Munich, Germany Further information
2nd annual Pharma Outsourcing Congress. The congress will focus on Outsourcing Drug Discovery and Clinical Trials.
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
May 5 - 7, 2010 RNAi and miRNA World Congress
Boston, MA, UK Further information
4th annual RNAi and miRNA World Congress. Agenda Topics: Target Discovery and Validation, Transfection, in vivo RNAi, siRNA library screens, microRNAs
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
May 6 - 7, 2010 Epigenetics World Congress
Boston, MA, UK Further information
2nd annual Epigenetics World Congress. The conference will be co-located with the RNAi and miRNA World Congress and Genomics Automation Congress.
Suggested reading: Epigenetics
May 6 - 7, 2010 Genomics Automation Congress
Boston, MA, UK Further information
The inaugural Genomics Automation Congress. Agenda Topics: Sample Preparation and Storage, Liquid Handling and Sample Management, Next Generation Sequencing Reactions, Alternative Sequencing Techniques, Data Handling and Analysis
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
May 25 - 26, 2010 Lab-on-a-Chip European Congress
Dublin, Ireland Further information
4th annual Lab-on-a-Chip European Congress, designed to review existing and new life science applications of microfluidic technologies.
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Fabrication and Microfluidics
May 25 - 26, 2010 Advances in Microarray Technology
Dublin, Ireland Further information
6th annual Advances in Microarray Technology (AMT) conference where you will hear about the latest developments and applications in the rapidly expanding field of microarrays.
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Biomolecular Separation and Analysis
May 25 - 26, 2010 Single Cell Analysis Congress
Dublin, Ireland Further information
The inaugural Single Cell Analysis Congress. The conference will be co-located with the Lab-on-a-Chip European Congress, Advances in Microarray Technology and Advances in BioDetection Technologies.
May 25 - 26, 2010 Advances in BioDetection Technologies
Dublin, Ireland Further information
3rd annual Advances in BioDetection Technologies conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Next Generation Biosensors and Biodetection Techniques, Point of Care and Field Ready Pathogen Detection Devices, Nucleic Acid Diagnostics Tests>
June 8 - 9, 2010 Cancer Proteomics
Berlin, Germany Further information
3rd annual Cancer Proteomics conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Signalling and Systems Biology, Cancer Diagnosis and Analysis Using Arrays, Using Proteomics for the Development of Cancer Therapeutics, Biomarker Discovery Using Proteomics
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
June 8 - 9, 2010 Advances in Antibody and Peptide Therapeutics
Berlin, Germany Further information
The inaugural Advances in Antibody and Peptide Therapeutics conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
July 8 - 9, 2010 AgriGenomics World Congress
Brussels, Belgium Further information
The third annual AgriGenomics World Congress. AgriGenomics is the detailed study of the genetic makeup of plants and how all the genes work together to produce the crop. Recently there has been great interest in genetically engineering plants to optimize yields and their use in bio-fuels. There is also focus on the alteration of certain genes to increase plant resistance towards disease and infection. So, now is a good time for scientists, business people, bio-ethicists and patent experts from around the globe to come together and catch up with the latest developments in this fast expanding field.
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
August 24 - 25, 2010 Stem Cells Europe
Edinburgh, UK Further information
3rd annual Stem Cells Europe conference. The agenda will reflect the dynamic nature of the field as we move from fundamental stem cell research towards clinical therapies.
August 24 - 25, 2010 World Biobanking Summit
Edinburgh, UK Further information
2nd annual World Biobanking Summit and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Sample Collection and Storage, Automation, Quality Assurance, Bioethics and Regulations, Harmonization and Standardization
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
August 24 - 25, 2010 Cellular Therapy Summit
Edinburgh, UK Further information
The inaugural Cellular Therapy Summit>
September 14 - 15, 2010 RNAi and miRNA Europe
Dublin, Ireland Further information
7th annual RNAi and miRNA Europe, claimed to be Europe\'s largest conference and exhibition dedicated to RNA interference.
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
September 14 - 15, 2010 Advances in qPCR
Dublin, Ireland Further information
3rd annual Advances in qPCR conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: qPCR in Diagnostics, Detection of Tumour Cells, microRNA/siRNA Applications, High Resolution Melt, Chip / location analysis, Single Cell qPCR, BioStatistics and Bioinformatics, Expression Profiling
Suggested reading: Real-Time PCR: Current Technology and Applications
September 14 - 15, 2010 Epigenetics Europe
Dublin, Ireland Further information
The inaugural Epigenetics Europe conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Epigenetics
September 14 - 15, 2010 Genomics Automation Europe
Dublin, Ireland Further information
The inaugural Genomics Automation Europe conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
October 27 - 27, 2010 Single Cell Analysis Summit
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
The inaugural one-day Single Cell Analysis Summit, to be held in La Jolla, San Diego. t will be held the day prior to the conferences Lab-on-a-Chip World Congress, Microarray World Congress, Molecular Diagnostics World Congress and Critical Assessment of Massive Data Analysis.
October 28 - 29, 2010 Lab-on-a-Chip World Congress
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
2nd annual Lab-on-a-Chip World Congress. Agenda Topics: Point-of-care diagnostics, New applications, Advances in microfabrication and engineering
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Fabrication and Microfluidics
October 28 - 29, 2010 Microarray World Congress
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
2nd annual Microarray World Congress where you will hear about the latest developments and applications in the rapidly expanding field of microarrays.
October 28 - 29, 2010 Molecular Diagnostics World Congress
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
3rd annual Molecular Diagnostics World Congress.
Suggested reading: Lab-on-a-Chip Technology: Biomolecular Separation and Analysis
October 28 - 29, 2010 Critical Assessment of Massive Data Analysis
San Diego, CA, USA Further information
More and more genome-wide assays, which previously could only be performed cost-effectively by microarrays, now can also been performed by using next-generation sequencing and with better resolution and sensitivity. However, translating the massive next-generation sequencing data, into meaningful results, faces new challenges. CAMDA2010 will offer a forum for the researchers from computer science, statistics, molecular biology, and other areas to exchange ideas, and critical evaluation of various techniques of analyzing next-generation sequencing data.
November 9 - 10, 2010 Advances in Metabolic Profiling
Florence, Italy Further information
6th annual Advances in Metabolic Profiling conference and exhibition.
Suggested reading: Bioscience Books
November 9 - 10, 2010 Mass Spec Europe
Florence, Italy Further information
2nd annual Mass Spec Europe conference and exhibition.
November 9 - 10, 2010 European Biomarkers Summit
Florence, Italy Further information
5th annual European Biomarkers Summit. Agenda Topics: Disease Specific Biomarkers, Biomarkers in Genomics, Metabolomics and Translational Medicine, Molecular Diagnostics, Personalized Medicine and Pharmacodiagnostics, Biomarker Assay Development
November 9 - 10, 2010 Advances in Protein Crystallography
Florence, Italy Further information
6th annual Advances in Protein Crystallography conference and exhibition. Agenda Topics: Protein Chemistry and Crystallization, New Laboratory Instrumentation and Techniques, Advances in Diffraction Techniques and Crystallographic Computing, New Drug Target Structures and their Analysis>
Labels: Biodetection, genomics, Lab-on-a-Chip, Microarray Technology, qPCR, RNAi and miRNA, Select Biosciences, Select Biosciences Conferences, SelectBiosciences, Single Cell Analysis, Stem Cells, Synthetic Biology
Bacterial Polysaccharides book review
The following is an excerpt from a recent book review of Bacterial Polysaccharides: Current Innovations and Future Trends
"The editor is to be congratulated in gathering a team of international experts and in editing such a mass of information and perspectives. Although the range of polysaccharides covered is broad, the detail within individual chapters is intense, up-to-date and highly informative. ... will also help to broaden the horizons of young PhD students." from John Govan, University of Edinburgh, UK writing in Microbiology Today (2009) read more ...
"The editor is to be congratulated in gathering a team of international experts and in editing such a mass of information and perspectives. Although the range of polysaccharides covered is broad, the detail within individual chapters is intense, up-to-date and highly informative. ... will also help to broaden the horizons of young PhD students." from John Govan, University of Edinburgh, UK writing in Microbiology Today (2009) read more ...
Labels: Biopolymer, book review, books, Polysaccharide
Microbial Toxins book review
The following excerpts are from recent book reviews of Microbial Toxins: Current Research and Future Trends.
"a collection of expert reviews of microbial toxins ... a very good overview of the state of the art ... The diagrams are useful and informative. The book will be of use to anyone that wants an up-to-date summary of microbial toxins. It will be of use to PhD students and postdoctoral scientists working on pathogenicity or toxin biochemistry ... I would like to see several copies in our University library." from Tim Mitchell, University of Glasgow, UK writing in Microbiology Today (2009) read more ...
"[chapter 9 is] of special interest to mycologists" from David L. Hawksworth writing in Mycological Research (2009) 113: 908-910. read more ...
"a collection of expert reviews of microbial toxins ... a very good overview of the state of the art ... The diagrams are useful and informative. The book will be of use to anyone that wants an up-to-date summary of microbial toxins. It will be of use to PhD students and postdoctoral scientists working on pathogenicity or toxin biochemistry ... I would like to see several copies in our University library." from Tim Mitchell, University of Glasgow, UK writing in Microbiology Today (2009) read more ...
"[chapter 9 is] of special interest to mycologists" from David L. Hawksworth writing in Mycological Research (2009) 113: 908-910. read more ...
Labels: book review, books, toxin
Acanthamoeba book review
The following is an excerpt from a recent book review of Acanthamoeba: Biology and Pathogenesis
"If you are interested in Acanthamoeba species, then this is the book to turn to. Kahn explores every aspect of this protozoan genus ... The thoroughness of the book is complemented by its logical organization with discrete sections that provide information on the organism's biology, life cycle, infectious nature and mode of action, the host immune response that it provokes and the therapeutic strategies that are available to us." from Roger Pickup, Lancaster University, UK writing in Microbiology Today (2009) read more ...
"If you are interested in Acanthamoeba species, then this is the book to turn to. Kahn explores every aspect of this protozoan genus ... The thoroughness of the book is complemented by its logical organization with discrete sections that provide information on the organism's biology, life cycle, infectious nature and mode of action, the host immune response that it provokes and the therapeutic strategies that are available to us." from Roger Pickup, Lancaster University, UK writing in Microbiology Today (2009) read more ...
Labels: Acanthamoeba, book review, books
Virology Conferences 2010
Details of conferences on virology from our comprehensive list at Microbiology Conferences 2010
January 12 - 17, 2010 HIV Biology and Pathogenesis
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
The Keystone Symposia Meeting on HIV Biology and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of HIV research including molecular biology. The focus will be to highlight recent advances in our understanding of HIV/AIDS ranging from the earliest events of transmission, to treatments for infected individuals, to interventions to prevent viral transmission. The goal of the meeting is to emphasize the basic mechanisms of viral replication and the interplay of the virus with the immune system leading to the development of AIDS.
Suggested reading: Lentiviruses and Macrophages HIV Vaccines
February 16 - 21, 2010 Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis
Taos, NM, Canada Further information
The Keystone Symposia meeting on the Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of virus infection pathways and cellular responses. A central goal is the identification of critical virus-cell crosstalk during these processes. Rather than dividing viruses into separate “categories” such as positive-sense RNA viruses and DNA viruses, the meeting highlights common aspects of virus lifecycles among different virus groups. The multi-disciplinary nature of the proposed meeting is important in bringing together investigators using structural, molecular, cell biological, immunological and epidemiological methods. This emphasis on shared themes and multiple experimental approaches will continue to be critical to future advances in virology. While there has been spectacular recent progress in our understanding of virus lifecycles, we are still very far from being able to design antiviral strategies, and unexpected novel aspects of virus cell biology are constantly being discovered. Plenary sessions will cover the most important aspects of virus interactions with cells. Day 1 will include cutting-edge structural virology studies and imaging methods to follow single virus particles during entry. Day 2 will focus on the entry mechanisms of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and the roles of cellular proteins in virus infection. Day 3 will cover viral and cellular aspects of virus replication and cellular antiviral responses. The last day will focus on the important areas of virus assembly and pathogenesis. Late-breaking exciting developments in this fast-moving field will be incorporated by short presentations and afternoon workshop sessions drawn from the submitted abstracts.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 23 - 26, 2010 Virus-host: partners in pathogenicity
San Jose, Costa Rica Further information
By necessity, viruses must resort to host cells for their amplification, since they rely on the host machineries for the synthesis of their proteins and efficient multiplication of their genome. EMBO World Lecture Courses
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 26 - 26, 2010 The Bacteriophage in Biology, Biotechnology and Medicine
Welwyn Garden City, UK Further information
This meeting is the third in a successful biennial series discussing the biological nature of bacteriophages, and their exploitation in basic microbiology (for genetics and functional genomics); diagnostics, ecology and evolution, phage display, vaccines, and in therapeutics in animal and human infections. The general structure of the meeting is to have short, expert presentations on this spectrum of topics, plus short Q and A sessions and offered posters. The meeting will be of interest to anyone who is currently using phages in their research work or who might be interested in the potential application of phages for basic biology, and applied topics such as bacterial diagnostics, vaccine development and phage therapy
Suggested reading: Bacteriophage: Genetics and Molecular Biology
March 21 - 26, 2010 HIV Vaccines
Banff, Canada Further information
Since a HIV vaccine is proving to be a particularly recalcitrant problem, a novel approach that facilitates a wider cross-fertilization of ideas would be very valuable and would be welcomed by the broader HIV vaccine research community. To that end, the major development proposed for the 2010 Keystone HIV Vaccine Symposium is to foster innovative ideas and new collaborations with immunology and vaccinology as it pertains to other viral diseases. Specifically, we propose that a new Joint Symposium of HIV Vaccines in conjunction with Viral Immunity be convened. This Joint Symposium would retain the valuable format that includes joint and separate sessions covering general and specific principles.
Suggested reading: AIDS Vaccine Development: Challenges and Opportunities
March 21 - 26, 2010 Viral Immunity
Banff, Canada Further information
The most exciting recent advances in viral immunity include the increased understanding of the role of innate immune mechanisms, interaction between innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen manipulation of host responses, and activation of immune responses and generation of immune memory. Despite these advances, basic mechanisms of anti-viral immunity are poorly characterized particularly for chronic infections. Efforts are also required to exploit recent research advances to improve vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. This meeting will include both innate and adaptive immunity and juxtapose animal models with human studies as it attempts to foster collaborative efforts between attending viral immunologists and the HIV vaccine researchers in the joint meeting. Expert talks in plenary sessions will encompass the latest in critical areas of viral immunity. Workshops and additional presentations will cover provocative and cutting-edge results from attendees. The meeting objective is to accelerate progress in understanding and manipulating anti-viral immunity to improve human health.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
March 24 - 26, 2010 ISHEID 2010 - International Symposium on HIV and Emerging Infectious Diseases
Marseille, France Further information
Sessions on HIV and infectious diseases.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
April 7 - 11, 2010 Fourth European Congress of Virology
Lake Como, Italy Further information
The Eurovirology Congresses, renamed European Virology Congresses, were initiated in 2000 to bring together young and senior investigators from all Countries of Europe and from all branches of Virology. The aim was to strengthen Virology in Europe, by providing a platform for basic, medical, clinical, veterinary, and plant Virology.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
May 30 - June 4, 2010 Antiviral applications of RNA interference
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF-EMBO Symposia
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
June 11 - 16, 2010 Genomic approaches to interactions between plant viruses, their hosts and their vectors
Fenestrelle, Italy Further information
EMBO Workshops
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 16 - 18, 2010 Viruses and innate immunity
Dublin, Ireland Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 20 - July 2, 2010 Virology Masterclass
Adelaide, Australia Further information
The 3rd Australasian Virology MasterClass is a unique post graduate course in Medical Virology offered by specialist practitioners working in the discipline. This intense two week course has been established to provide up to date and comprehensive information relevant to modern diagnostic, molecular and clinical virology. The 2006 and 2007 Virology MasterClasses attracted participants from Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore and Brunei. Highly acclaimed and previously oversubscribed, the course will offered again in 2010.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 21 - 25, 2010 14th International Negative Strand Virus Meeting
Bruges, Belgium Further information
Recent developments in basic research on negative strand viruses, including progress in high resolution structure determination, the control of negative strand viral RNA synthesis, and the cellular innate response to negative strand virus infection etc.
Suggested reading: Current virology publications
July 17 - 21, 2010 American Society For Virology 29th Annual Scientific Meeting
Bozeman, MT, USA Further information
The 2010 ASV scientific program will include symposia and concurrent sessions on multiple aspects of virology.
Suggested reading: Virology books
July 18 - 23, 2010 AIDS Congress
Vienna, Austria Further information
AIDS 2010 will mark an important milestone: the deadline by which world leaders have committed to ensuring universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. The conference will be an opportunity to evaluate progress to date and to identify what must be done, both individually and collectively, to achieve this critical goal. With an estimated 25,000 participants and 2,500 media in attendance
Suggested reading: Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
August 26 - September 4, 2010 Viral vectors in gene therapy: applications and novel production methods
Kuopio, Finland Further information
EMBO Practical Courses
Suggested reading: Virology Books
September 2 - 4, 2010 An Infection That Will Never Be Out of Date: Influenza
Istanbul, Turkey Further information
ESCMID Postgraduate Education Course. Jointly organized by the Turkish Microbiology Society and ESCMID.
Suggested reading: Influenza Molecular Biology
September 3 - 7, 2010 Options for the Control of Influenza VII
Hong Kong, Further information
Largest forum solely focused on the prevention, control, and treatment of influenza. Most recent advances in the science of influenza
Suggested reading: Influenza Molecular Biology
July 16 - 20, 2011 American Society For Virology 30th Annual Scientific Meeting
Minneapolis, USA Further information
Annual meeting of the American Society For Virology
Suggested reading: Recommended reading in virology
September 11 - 16, 2011 XV International Congress of Virology
Sapporo, Japan Further information
IUMS conference. International Union of Microbiological Societies 2011
Suggested reading: Virology Books
See also: Molecular Biology Conferences 2010 and Microbiology Conferences 2010
Recommended reading:
January 2010
January 12 - 17, 2010 HIV Biology and Pathogenesis
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
The Keystone Symposia Meeting on HIV Biology and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of HIV research including molecular biology. The focus will be to highlight recent advances in our understanding of HIV/AIDS ranging from the earliest events of transmission, to treatments for infected individuals, to interventions to prevent viral transmission. The goal of the meeting is to emphasize the basic mechanisms of viral replication and the interplay of the virus with the immune system leading to the development of AIDS.
Suggested reading: Lentiviruses and Macrophages HIV Vaccines
February 16 - 21, 2010 Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis
Taos, NM, Canada Further information
The Keystone Symposia meeting on the Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of virus infection pathways and cellular responses. A central goal is the identification of critical virus-cell crosstalk during these processes. Rather than dividing viruses into separate “categories” such as positive-sense RNA viruses and DNA viruses, the meeting highlights common aspects of virus lifecycles among different virus groups. The multi-disciplinary nature of the proposed meeting is important in bringing together investigators using structural, molecular, cell biological, immunological and epidemiological methods. This emphasis on shared themes and multiple experimental approaches will continue to be critical to future advances in virology. While there has been spectacular recent progress in our understanding of virus lifecycles, we are still very far from being able to design antiviral strategies, and unexpected novel aspects of virus cell biology are constantly being discovered. Plenary sessions will cover the most important aspects of virus interactions with cells. Day 1 will include cutting-edge structural virology studies and imaging methods to follow single virus particles during entry. Day 2 will focus on the entry mechanisms of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and the roles of cellular proteins in virus infection. Day 3 will cover viral and cellular aspects of virus replication and cellular antiviral responses. The last day will focus on the important areas of virus assembly and pathogenesis. Late-breaking exciting developments in this fast-moving field will be incorporated by short presentations and afternoon workshop sessions drawn from the submitted abstracts.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 23 - 26, 2010 Virus-host: partners in pathogenicity
San Jose, Costa Rica Further information
By necessity, viruses must resort to host cells for their amplification, since they rely on the host machineries for the synthesis of their proteins and efficient multiplication of their genome. EMBO World Lecture Courses
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 26 - 26, 2010 The Bacteriophage in Biology, Biotechnology and Medicine
Welwyn Garden City, UK Further information
This meeting is the third in a successful biennial series discussing the biological nature of bacteriophages, and their exploitation in basic microbiology (for genetics and functional genomics); diagnostics, ecology and evolution, phage display, vaccines, and in therapeutics in animal and human infections. The general structure of the meeting is to have short, expert presentations on this spectrum of topics, plus short Q and A sessions and offered posters. The meeting will be of interest to anyone who is currently using phages in their research work or who might be interested in the potential application of phages for basic biology, and applied topics such as bacterial diagnostics, vaccine development and phage therapy
Suggested reading: Bacteriophage: Genetics and Molecular Biology
March 21 - 26, 2010 HIV Vaccines
Banff, Canada Further information
Since a HIV vaccine is proving to be a particularly recalcitrant problem, a novel approach that facilitates a wider cross-fertilization of ideas would be very valuable and would be welcomed by the broader HIV vaccine research community. To that end, the major development proposed for the 2010 Keystone HIV Vaccine Symposium is to foster innovative ideas and new collaborations with immunology and vaccinology as it pertains to other viral diseases. Specifically, we propose that a new Joint Symposium of HIV Vaccines in conjunction with Viral Immunity be convened. This Joint Symposium would retain the valuable format that includes joint and separate sessions covering general and specific principles.
Suggested reading: AIDS Vaccine Development: Challenges and Opportunities
March 21 - 26, 2010 Viral Immunity
Banff, Canada Further information
The most exciting recent advances in viral immunity include the increased understanding of the role of innate immune mechanisms, interaction between innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen manipulation of host responses, and activation of immune responses and generation of immune memory. Despite these advances, basic mechanisms of anti-viral immunity are poorly characterized particularly for chronic infections. Efforts are also required to exploit recent research advances to improve vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. This meeting will include both innate and adaptive immunity and juxtapose animal models with human studies as it attempts to foster collaborative efforts between attending viral immunologists and the HIV vaccine researchers in the joint meeting. Expert talks in plenary sessions will encompass the latest in critical areas of viral immunity. Workshops and additional presentations will cover provocative and cutting-edge results from attendees. The meeting objective is to accelerate progress in understanding and manipulating anti-viral immunity to improve human health.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
March 24 - 26, 2010 ISHEID 2010 - International Symposium on HIV and Emerging Infectious Diseases
Marseille, France Further information
Sessions on HIV and infectious diseases.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
April 2010
April 7 - 11, 2010 Fourth European Congress of Virology
Lake Como, Italy Further information
The Eurovirology Congresses, renamed European Virology Congresses, were initiated in 2000 to bring together young and senior investigators from all Countries of Europe and from all branches of Virology. The aim was to strengthen Virology in Europe, by providing a platform for basic, medical, clinical, veterinary, and plant Virology.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
May 30 - June 4, 2010 Antiviral applications of RNA interference
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF-EMBO Symposia
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
June 2010
June 11 - 16, 2010 Genomic approaches to interactions between plant viruses, their hosts and their vectors
Fenestrelle, Italy Further information
EMBO Workshops
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 16 - 18, 2010 Viruses and innate immunity
Dublin, Ireland Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 20 - July 2, 2010 Virology Masterclass
Adelaide, Australia Further information
The 3rd Australasian Virology MasterClass is a unique post graduate course in Medical Virology offered by specialist practitioners working in the discipline. This intense two week course has been established to provide up to date and comprehensive information relevant to modern diagnostic, molecular and clinical virology. The 2006 and 2007 Virology MasterClasses attracted participants from Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Singapore and Brunei. Highly acclaimed and previously oversubscribed, the course will offered again in 2010.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 21 - 25, 2010 14th International Negative Strand Virus Meeting
Bruges, Belgium Further information
Recent developments in basic research on negative strand viruses, including progress in high resolution structure determination, the control of negative strand viral RNA synthesis, and the cellular innate response to negative strand virus infection etc.
Suggested reading: Current virology publications
July 17 - 21, 2010 American Society For Virology 29th Annual Scientific Meeting
Bozeman, MT, USA Further information
The 2010 ASV scientific program will include symposia and concurrent sessions on multiple aspects of virology.
Suggested reading: Virology books
July 18 - 23, 2010 AIDS Congress
Vienna, Austria Further information
AIDS 2010 will mark an important milestone: the deadline by which world leaders have committed to ensuring universal access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and support. The conference will be an opportunity to evaluate progress to date and to identify what must be done, both individually and collectively, to achieve this critical goal. With an estimated 25,000 participants and 2,500 media in attendance
Suggested reading: Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
August 26 - September 4, 2010 Viral vectors in gene therapy: applications and novel production methods
Kuopio, Finland Further information
EMBO Practical Courses
Suggested reading: Virology Books
September 2 - 4, 2010 An Infection That Will Never Be Out of Date: Influenza
Istanbul, Turkey Further information
ESCMID Postgraduate Education Course. Jointly organized by the Turkish Microbiology Society and ESCMID.
Suggested reading: Influenza Molecular Biology
September 3 - 7, 2010 Options for the Control of Influenza VII
Hong Kong, Further information
Largest forum solely focused on the prevention, control, and treatment of influenza. Most recent advances in the science of influenza
Suggested reading: Influenza Molecular Biology
July 2011
July 16 - 20, 2011 American Society For Virology 30th Annual Scientific Meeting
Minneapolis, USA Further information
Annual meeting of the American Society For Virology
Suggested reading: Recommended reading in virology
September 11 - 16, 2011 XV International Congress of Virology
Sapporo, Japan Further information
IUMS conference. International Union of Microbiological Societies 2011
Suggested reading: Virology Books
See also: Molecular Biology Conferences 2010 and Microbiology Conferences 2010
Recommended reading:
Labels: Virology conference update, Virology Conferences 2010, virology meeting, Virology Meetings 2010, Virology Symposia, Virology Symposia 2010, Virology Symposium
Molecular Biology Conferences 2010
Details of conferences on molecular biology from our comprehensive list at Molecular Biology Conferences 2010
January 8 - 13, 2010 Structural Genomics: Expanding the Horizons of Structural Biology
Breckenridge, CO, USA Further information
Structural Biology continues to be one of the most prolific and informative ways to make biological and biomedical discoveries at the turn of the millennium, and provides fundamental molecular level insights into the underlying biological and biochemical functions. Structural genomics has been at the forefront of these developments as a major contributor to the advances of high throughput (HT) technologies and methodologies that span the gene to structure process by both crystallography and NMR. In parallel, the rapid expansion of the genome sequencing projects is substantially increasing the complexity and size of the known protein universe, and providing structural biologists with a wealth of new opportunities and challenges to explore, the diversity of biological macromolecules and their relationships to, function, evolution and disease. The goal of this Keystone Symposia meeting is to explore how we can best harness the current approaches from high throughput structural genomics to tackle present and future challenges in structural biology and how we can directly apply these methods to topical and important problems in structural, molecular, cellular and chemical biology. We will focus on approaches that are applicable not only for large consortia, but also for single investigator laboratories and smaller scale projects. Using such methodologies and technologies, we can then keep pace with the genome sequencing efforts and continue to make significant contributions to the constantly increasing discoveries on the intricacies and vagaries of complex biological processes – such as mammalian proteomes, microbial pathogens and cellular and signaling networks /systems. In this way, structural biology will continue to lead the way in making innovative discoveries in biological, chemical, and biomedical research.
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
January 10 - 15, 2010 Origin of Life
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference. The Gordon Research Seminar on Origin Of Life encompasses many disciplines including molecular biology, the RNA world, geobiology, and genomics.
January 12 - 17, 2010 HIV Biology and Pathogenesis
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
The Keystone Symposia Meeting on HIV Biology and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of HIV research including molecular biology. The focus will be to highlight recent advances in our understanding of HIV/AIDS ranging from the earliest events of transmission, to treatments for infected individuals, to interventions to prevent viral transmission. The goal of the meeting is to emphasize the basic mechanisms of viral replication and the interplay of the virus with the immune system leading to the development of AIDS.
Suggested reading: Lentiviruses and Macrophages HIV Vaccines
January 12 - 17, 2010 Protein and lipid function in secretion and endocytosis
Goldegg am See, Austria Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
January 14 - 19, 2010 RNA Silencing: Mechanism, Biology and Application
Keystone, CO, USA Further information
Since the discovery in 1993 of the first small silencing RNA, a dizzying number of small RNA classes have been identified, including microRNAs, various types of siRNAs and piRNAs. These classes differ in their biogenesis, modes of target regulation and in the biological pathways they regulate. However, there is also a growing realization that these distinct small RNA pathways are interconnected. These pathways functions in RNA-based immunity, developmental gene regulation, transcriptional silencing, and genomic stability. The aim of this meeting is to explore the similarities and differences between RNA silencing pathways, to probe their underlying molecular mechanisms, to learn, by illustrative examples, the logic behind RNA-guided regulation of gene expression, and to explore new methods for harnessing these mechanisms for gene discovery and therapeutics applications.
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
January 17 - 22, 2010 Molecular Basis for Chromatin Structure and Regulation
Taos, NM, USA Further information
Chromatin structure and dynamics underlie every aspect of genome function. The past several years have seen an exponential growth in our knowledge of facts, ranging from catalogs of histone protein posttranslational modifications to complete genome sequences of many organisms to atomic resolution structures of many key molecular players. But our mechanistic understanding lags far behind. New reagents, methodologies and concepts are needed. This meeting will bring together leading experts in diverse areas of chromatin biology who are developing and applying new approaches to develop a concrete mechanistic link between chromatin structure and chromatin function. The topics covered include: fundamental in vivo physical chemical studies of transcription factor binding; real-time single molecule in vivo imaging; state-of-the-art methods for discovery, characterization, and manipulation of histone- and nucleosome-modifying enzymes and for the synthesis and characterization of their specifically-modified histone and nucleosome substrates; single molecule biophysics studies of molecular mechanisms; atomic resolution structural studies; and locus- and chromosome-wide phenomena such as heterochromatin formation and dosage compensation.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
January 24 - 29, 2010 Protein Cofactors, Radicals and Quinones
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
January 24 - 29, 2010 Sensory Transduction in Microorganisms
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
January 31 - February 5, 2010 Biology of Spirochetes
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis
January 31 - February 5, 2010 New Insights into Healthspan and Diseases of Aging: From Molecular to Functional Senescence
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
The focus is on the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which tissue and organ function deteriorate and homeostasis fails rather than on longevity itself, which has been the theme of previous Keystone Symposia meetings on aging. Work from a variety of models is recognizing that organisms, especially humans, are complicated systems in which interventions that extend lifespan might not necessarily block the aging and loss of function in specific organs or tissues and vice versa. Continuing this approach will help us gain an understanding and appreciation of the complexity that underlies aging in humans. The aim of this meeting is to reveal the integration and communication between pathways and systems during functional aging and their relationship with longevity. This meeting will highlight important questions to address in future research. Most importantly, what are the common and disparate causes underlying the cellular and physiological mechanisms responsible for human senescent phenotypes?
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
February 1 - 5, 2010 Phosphoproteomics
Odense, Denmark Further information
EMBO Practical Course
February 7 - 11, 2010 Genomic approaches to evolution and development
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
February 7 - 12, 2010 Glycolipid and Sphingolipid Biology
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 7 - 12, 2010 Oxygen Radicals: Mechanisms That Underpin Redox Biology
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 13 - 14, 2010 Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar Extracellular Proteases and Their Regulation: New Functions in Development and Disease
February 14 - 16, 2010 31st Lorne Genome Conference on the Organization and Expression of the Genome
Lorne, Australia Further information
The annual Lorne Genome Conference on the organization and expression of the human genome
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
February 14 - 19, 2010 Antibiotics and Resistance: Challenges and Solutions
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
In the face of a growing crisis in antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new bacterial pathogens, there is a pressing clinical need for new antibiotics. Paradoxically, this call for new drugs comes at a time when investment in antibiotic development in the pharmaceutical industry is at historically low levels. Despite the promise of the genomic revolution to inform drug development and innovations in drug discovery and the fundamental biology that underpins it, modern control of infectious disease with antibiotics is perilously fragile. This meeting brings together researchers from medicine, academe and industry and from across scientific disciplines to discuss the challenges of antibiotic development in the 21st Century. What is the scope of the problem? What are possible solutions? What are the imperatives for the short and long term and is the traditional antibiotic paradigm in need of an overhaul? These questions will be the focus of the meeting that will help to define the problems and solutions in antibiotic development.
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
February 14 - 19, 2010 Myelin
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 14 - 19, 2010 Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 16 - 21, 2010 Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis
Taos, NM, Canada Further information
The Keystone Symposia meeting on the Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of virus infection pathways and cellular responses. A central goal is the identification of critical virus-cell crosstalk during these processes. Rather than dividing viruses into separate “categories” such as positive-sense RNA viruses and DNA viruses, the meeting highlights common aspects of virus lifecycles among different virus groups. The multi-disciplinary nature of the proposed meeting is important in bringing together investigators using structural, molecular, cell biological, immunological and epidemiological methods. This emphasis on shared themes and multiple experimental approaches will continue to be critical to future advances in virology. While there has been spectacular recent progress in our understanding of virus lifecycles, we are still very far from being able to design antiviral strategies, and unexpected novel aspects of virus cell biology are constantly being discovered. Plenary sessions will cover the most important aspects of virus interactions with cells. Day 1 will include cutting-edge structural virology studies and imaging methods to follow single virus particles during entry. Day 2 will focus on the entry mechanisms of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and the roles of cellular proteins in virus infection. Day 3 will cover viral and cellular aspects of virus replication and cellular antiviral responses. The last day will focus on the important areas of virus assembly and pathogenesis. Late-breaking exciting developments in this fast-moving field will be incorporated by short presentations and afternoon workshop sessions drawn from the submitted abstracts.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 21 - 26, 2010 Angiotensin: Molecular Basis for Action, Dysfunction and New Therapeutic Approaches
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 21 - 26, 2010 Plant-Herbivore Interaction
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
February 21 - 26, 2010 RNA Silencing Mechanisms in Plants
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
Although the core mechanisms of RNA silencing are conserved across eukaryotes, plants have deployed gene silencing in a particularly wide variety of molecular, developmental, adaptive, defensive and epigenetic contexts. Plants, therefore, serve as among the most insightful models to illuminate mechanisms of RNA-directed DNA methylation and transcriptional silencing, antiviral defense, small RNA biogenesis and effector mechanisms, and the roles of small RNA-mediated regulation in development and stress responses. We will highlight recent mechanistic advances about how RNA silencing pathways integrate with plant processes, acting at levels ranging from single-nucleotide to population, as regulatory devices. Session topics emphasize integration between silencing mechanisms and developmental regulation and stress responses, DNA and chromatin modification, host-pathogen dynamics, and natural variation. The Symposium will also highlight cutting-edge, high-throughput technology being developed and applied to understand the roles of RNA-mediated silencing across the plant genome.
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
February 23 - 26, 2010 Virus-host: partners in pathogenicity
San Jose, Costa Rica Further information
EMBO Lecture Series
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 26 - 27, 2010 5th Annual Biomarkers Congress
Manchester, UK Further information
The event explores core topics such as integration of applications and enabling technologies, molecular diagnostics and assay development, imaging in preclinical and clinical development, and biomarker discovery.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
February 27 - March 4, 2010 Lymphocyte Activation and Gene Expression
Breckenridge, CO, USA Further information
Lymphocytes mediate the adaptive immune responses to antigens derived from infectious agents, transformed cells, transplanted organs and, in the setting of autoimmunity, ones own cells. The study of lymphocyte activation and gene expression is central to understanding the complex biology of these cells and offers hope for regulating these cells in different clinical settings. Much has been learned in the past several decades in this field. Receptors, enzymes and adapter molecules have been identified, signaling cascades and networks have been defined, and the complex regulation of gene expression has been explored. Nonetheless many basic questions remain to be elucidated. Among several contentious areas of research that will be presented by experts at this meeting are the actual means by which antigen receptors initiate the activation process, how activation induces changes in signaling pathways, intracellular organelles and the cytoskeleton, and how changes in chromatin and transcriptional factors determine gene expression.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
February 27 - March 5, 2010 ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) Proteins: From Multidrug Resistance to Genetic Diseases
Innsbruck, Austria Further information
3rd FEBS Special Meeting on ABC Proteins - ABC2010 ABC2010 will cover all basic and applied aspects of ABC proteins, both in normal and cancer cells, as well as their important roles in genetic diseases as well as drug resistance phenomena in cancer or microbial systems. Leading scientists from all over the world and representatives of major pharmaceutical companies will present and discuss latest news on ABC proteins operating in bacteria, fungi, plants, parasites and humans. We were able to commit numerous leading experts to participate, with many new faces attending as plenary speakers.
Suggested reading: ABC Transporters in Microorganisms
March 3 - 5, 2010 EMBO Workshop on Visualizing Biological Data (VizBi)
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Workshop. A primary way that biologists interact with their data is through visualization systems, ranging from simple, stand-alone methods to complex, integrated software packages. However, the sheer volume and diversity of both data and of visualization systems presents an increasing challenge for biologists. The goal of the workshop is to bring together, for the first time, researchers developing and using systems to visualize a broad range of biological data, including sequences, genomes, phylogenies, macromolecular structures, systems biology, microscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging. In selecting topics for this workshop, we have focused on the visualization of processed and annotated data in their biological context, rather than the processing of raw data.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
March 7 - 12, 2010 Antibody Biology and Engineering: From Basic Mechanisms to Antibody-Based Therapeutics
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
March 7 - 12, 2010 Protein Transport Across Cell Membranes
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: ABC Transporters in Microorganisms
March 13 - 19, 2010 Genes and Behavior
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
March 14 - 19, 2010 Fibroblast Growth Factors in Development and Disease
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
March 14 - 19, 2010 New Antibacterial Discovery and Development
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology and Antimicrobials
March 16 - 26, 2010 Mass spectrometry in protein analysis and characterization
Montevideo, Uruguay Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
March 21 - 26, 2010 Biology of Acute Respiratory Infection
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology books
March 21 - 26, 2010 DNA Damage, Mutation and Cancer
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
March 21 - 26, 2010 HIV Vaccines
Banff, Canada Further information
Since an HIV vaccine is proving to be a particularly recalcitrant problem, a novel approach that facilitates a wider cross-fertilization of ideas would be very valuable and would be welcomed by the broader HIV vaccine research community. To that end, the major development proposed for the 2010 Keystone HIV Vaccine Symposium is to foster innovative ideas and new collaborations with immunology and vaccinology as it pertains to other viral diseases. Specifically, we propose that a new Joint Symposium of HIV Vaccines in conjunction with Viral Immunity be convened. This Joint Symposium would retain the valuable format that includes joint and separate sessions covering general and specific principles.
Suggested reading: AIDS Vaccine Development: Challenges and Opportunities
March 21 - 26, 2010 Nuclear Receptors: Development, Physiology and Disease
Keystone, CO, USA Further information
Nuclear receptors represent a family of ligand-regulated transcription factors that play central roles in development, physiology, and metabolism. Upon binding small lipophilic hormones and metabolites, such as steroids, fatty acids, and bile acids, nuclear receptors switch their regulatory status, reprogramming gene expression in target tissues. Current research is aimed at defining roles for these receptors in normal development and metabolism as well as better understanding how nuclear receptor dysfunction contributes to diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and neuronal disorders. Nuclear receptors are also a major target for drug development, with many compounds on the market and several in ongoing human trials. This meeting will highlight recent breakthroughs in nuclear receptor research, promote interactions between scientists from industry and academia, and provide opportunities for senior scientists to interact with younger researchers and trainees.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
March 21 - 26, 2010 Viral Immunity
Banff, Canada Further information
The most exciting recent advances in viral immunity include the increased understanding of the role of innate immune mechanisms, interaction between innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen manipulation of host responses, and activation of immune responses and generation of immune memory. Despite these advances, basic mechanisms of anti-viral immunity are poorly characterized particularly for chronic infections. Efforts are also required to exploit recent research advances to improve vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. This meeting will include both innate and adaptive immunity and juxtapose animal models with human studies as it attempts to foster collaborative efforts between attending viral immunologists and the HIV vaccine researchers in the joint meeting. Expert talks in plenary sessions will encompass the latest in critical areas of viral immunity. Workshops and additional presentations will cover provocative and cutting-edge results from attendees. The meeting objective is to accelerate progress in understanding and manipulating anti-viral immunity to improve human health.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
March 27 - 31, 2010 Hedgehog signaling: from developmental biology to anti-cancer drugs
St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France Further information
EMBO Workshop
April 7 - 12, 2010 Dynamics of Eukaryotic Transcription during Development
Big Sky, MT, USA Further information
Gene expression in eukaryotes is regulated primarily at the level of transcription. Although much is known about the basic building blocks required to recruit RNA polymerase II to a gene promoter and establish a pre-initiation complex, recent data reveals that a great deal of regulation occurs during transcription elongation, and involves dynamic interactions between the transcription machinery and chromatin structure. This meeting is intended to explore these recently appreciated mechanisms for gene regulation and to showcase the novel techniques that have permitted these advances. Of particular interest are the use of comprehensive, genomic approaches, and their use towards understanding the different patterns of gene expression in different model systems, including stem cells and developing tissues, as well as the application of novel molecular probing and cell imaging techniques to investigate the global nuclear architecture and its impact on gene expression.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
April 8 - 17, 2010 Advanced optical microscopy 2010
Plymouth, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
April 10 - 13, 2010 In silico systems biology: network reconstruction, analysis and network based modelling
Hinxton, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
April 10 - 16, 2010 Methods for miRNA discovery and analysis: from in situ hybridization to new generation sequencing
Monterotondo Scalo, Italy Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
April 11 - 16, 2010 Malaria: New Approaches to Understanding Host-Parasite Interactions
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Malaria has entered a new era—a partially effective vaccine may be licensed in the not too distant future, and the genomes of host, parasite and vector are now widely available. Major advances have been made in understanding basic parasite cell biology and fundamental immunology, using rapidly evolving molecular genetic technologies for both host and parasite. Systems biology approaches also offer a new paradigm for interrogating complex host responses to a complex pathogen. Future progress will require greater integration of these technologies to elucidate parasite cell biology, host-parasite interactions, and the specific mechanisms that confer protection in our model systems and in nature. This symposium will bring together these new fields to examine those aspects of host and Plasmodium biology important for understanding immunity and pathogenesis.
Suggested reading: Parasitology Booksy Books
April 11 - 16, 2010 Molecular Targets for Control of Vector-Borne Diseases: Bridging Lab and Field Research
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Vigorous research since the completion of the Anopheles gambiae genome sequence has established the malaria mosquito as a model organism for host-pathogen biology. However, the translation of this growing post-genomic knowledge base into new vector-targeted malaria control strategies is a distinct challenge that now leads laboratory-based molecular researchers to confront the complexity and heterogeneity of the natural malaria transmission system. Simultaneously, a body of field-based vector researchers has been developing new ways to utilize existing vector control tools such as bednets and insecticides that, if consistently implemented, can yield impressive outcomes. Lab and field based practitioners attend different meetings and rarely engage in direct dialog. This conference will examine the tension between the development of new practical malaria control tools, including genomic ones, and the advantages of more fully exploiting existing tools. It is hoped that the scientific discussion will help influence individual and programmatic research priorities.
Suggested reading: Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis
April 17 - 23, 2010 Photosensory Receptors and Signal Transduction
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
April 24 - 28, 2010 2nd ASM Conference on Mobile DNA
Montreal, Canada Further information
American Society Microbiology conference 2010.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
April 24 - 28, 2010 ASBMB Annual Meeting
Anaheim, CA, USA Further information
Highlighting the scientific scope of the Society, the scientific program will be organized into three Thematic Groups, with scheduling of individual Thematic Programs arranged to enhance maximal participation of meeting attendees. The Thematic Programs have been developed to provide indepth coverage of specific topics within general areas, with the goal of appealing to biochemists and molecular biologists at all professional levels
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
April 26 - May 1, 2010 Computational RNA Biology
Cargese, France Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
May 2 - 7, 2010 Proteolytic Enzymes and Their Inhibitors
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Proteolysis: The Most Important and Ubiquitous Post Translational Modification That Regulates Biology, Life and Death
May 3 - 12, 2010 Computational molecular evolution
Heraklion (Crete), Greece Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
May 4 - 7, 2010 Proteolysis and neurodegeneration (5th INPROTEOLYS meeting)
Madrid, Spain Further information
EMBO Workshop
May 5 - 7, 2010 Catalytic mechanisms by biological systems: at the interface between chemistry and biology
Hamburg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
May 5 - 7, 2010 Scientific programming and data visualization for structural biology
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
May 6 - 9, 2010 EMBO Molecular Medicine Workshop: Cell guidance signals in cancer
Portofino Vetta (Camogli), Italy Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Books on Medical Microbiology
May 10 - 13, 2010 RNA quality control
Vienna, Austria Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
May 16 - 21, 2010 Immunochemistry and Immunobiology
Les Diablerets, Switzerland Further information
Gordon Research Conference
May 16 - 21, 2010 Ligand Recognition and Molecular Gating
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Gordon Research Conference
May 17 - 21, 2010 Recombination and connections to SUMO and ubiquitin modifications
Castelvecchio Pascoli (Lucca), Italy Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
May 18 - 21, 2010 Advanced light microscopy techniques and their applications‚ 10th International ELMI Meeting
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Workshop
May 21 - 26, 2010 Cellular signaling and molecular medicine
Cavtat (Dubrovnik), Croatia Further information
EMBO Conference Series
May 23 - 31, 2010 Lipid rafts: methods for studying membrane organization
Dresden, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
May 30 - Jun 4, 2010 Chemotactic Cytokines
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Gordon Research Conference
May 30 - June 4, 2010 Antiviral applications of RNA interference
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
May 31 - June 5, 2010 Structural characterization of macromolecular complexes
Grenoble, France Further information
EMBO Practical Course
June 1 - 4, 2010 Emerging themes in infection biology
Nice, France Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Bacteriology Books
June 2 - 5, 2010 Microtubules: structure, regulation and functions
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Pili and Flagella: Current Research and Future Trends
June 6 - 11, 2010 Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
Hong Kong, China Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 6 - 11, 2010 Nox Family NADPH Oxidases: Towards Understanding Nox/Duox Function
Les Diablerets, Switzerland Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology
June 6 - 11, 2010 Phosphorylation and G-Protein Mediated Signaling Networks
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 12 - 18, 2010 Meiosis
New London, NH, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
June 12 - 16, 2010 Genomic approaches to interactions between plant viruses, their hosts and their vectors
Fenestrelle, Italy Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Microorganisms
June 13 - 17, 2010 Replication/repair and segregation of chromosomes
Munzingen (Freiburg), Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
June 13 - 18, 2010 Cellular and Molecular Fungal Biology
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Medical Mycology Books
June 13 - 18, 2010 Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 13 - 18, 2010 Salt and Water Stress in Plants
Les Diablerets, Switzerland Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
June 16 - 18, 2010 Viruses and innate immunity
Dublin, Ireland Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 17 - 20, 2010 C. elegans development and gene expression
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
June 17 - 27, 2010 Electron microscopy and stereology in cell biology
Oslo, Norway Further information
EMBO Practical Course
June 19 - 23, 2010 Chromosome segregation and aneuploidy
Edinburgh, UK Further information
EMBO Workshop
June 19 - 24, 2010 Gene transcription in yeast: from mechanisms to functional genomics
San Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Yeast and Mycology
June 19 - 24, 2010 The cytoskeleton in development and pathology
Djurhamn, Sweden Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
June 20 - 26, 2010 The molecular and developmental biology of Drosophila
Kolymbari, Greece Further information
EMBO Conference Series
June 20 - 27, 2010 International Conference on Bioinformatics of Genome Regulation and Structure\Systems Biology (BGRS\SB-2010)
Novosibirsk, Russia Further information
Hosted by The Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The results of the most recent research in these fields will be presented. The Conference program will include plenary papers, session papers and round tables.
Suggested reading: Bioinformatics Books
June 26 - 27, 2010 Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
June 27 - Jul 2, 2010 Bacterial Cell Surfaces
New London, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
June 27 - Jul 2, 2010 Biology of Host-Parasite Interactions
Newport, RI, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Parasitology Books
June 27 - Jul 2, 2010 Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 27 - July 3, 2010 Application of transient kinetic methods to biological macromolecules
Canterbury, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
June 28 - July 2, 2010 High-throughput RNAi and data analysis
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
June 28 - July 4, 2010 Biomolecular simulation
Paris, France Further information
EMBO Practical Course
July 1 - 9, 2010 3D developmental imaging
Oeiras, Portugal Further information
EMBO Practical Course
July 4 - 8, 2010 SMBE 2010 Annual Meeting
Lyon, France Further information
The 18th annual meeting of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution-SMBE 2010-will be held in Lyon, France July 4-8, 2010, in the city\'s convention center. The Meeting will highlight the latest research on molecular evolution, especially comparative genomics, population genomics, phylogenomics, and molecular evo-devo.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
July 4 - 9, 2010 Marine Microbes: From Genes to Global Cycles
Tilton, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
July 10 - 16, 2010 Mitochondria and Chloroplasts
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Partnerships That Led to Eukaryotic Life
July 10 - 16, 2010 Bioelectrochemistry
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
July 10 - 16, 2010 Microbial Toxins and Pathogenicity
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Molecular Mechanisms in Pathogenesis and Host-Microbe Interactions
Suggested reading: Microbial Toxins: Current Research and Future Trends
July 10 - 16, 2010 Signaling by Adhesion Receptors: New Directions in Cell Adhesion and Signaling
Waterville, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 11 - 16, 2010 Drug Metabolism
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
After Forty Years of Inquiry: An Era of Engineered Enzymes and Individualized Drug Therapies
July 11 - 16, 2010 Intrinsically Disordered Proteins: Introducing Unfoldome and Unfoldomics
Davidson, NC, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 11 - 16, 2010 Ion Channels
Tilton, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 11 - 16, 2010 Proteoglycans
Andover, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 12 - 23, 2010 Molecular approaches to evolution and development
Fiskebackskil, Sweden Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
July 18 - 23, 2010 Diffraction Methods in Structural Biology
Lewiston, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 18 - 23, 2010 Enzymes, Coenzymes and Metabolic Pathways
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Mechanistic and Structural Characterization of Enzymes With Relevance to Biochemical Pathways and Novel Therapeutics
July 18 - 23, 2010 Metabolic Basis of Ecology
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Environmental Molecular Microbiology
July 18 - 23, 2010 Microbial Stress Response
South Hadley, MA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 18 - 23, 2010 Plant Molecular Biology
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
July 18 - 23, 2010 Proprotein Processing, Trafficking and Secretion
New London, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 18 - 23, 2010 The Biology of Post-Transcriptional Gene Regulation
Newport, RI, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 25 - 30, 2010 Chromatin Structure and Function
Smithfield, RI, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 29 - August 4, 2010 Ubiquitin and SUMO
Split, Croatia Further information
EMBO Practical Course
August 1 - 6, 2010 Molecular Basis of Microbial One-Carbon Metabolism
Lewiston, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Molecular Microbiology
August 1 - 6, 2010 Multidimensional NMR in structural biology
Castelvecchio Pascoli (Lucca), Italy Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
August 1 - 6, 2010 Mutagenesis
Waterville, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
August 8 - 13, 2010 Plant and Microbial Cytoskeleton
Andover, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
August 15 - 20, 2010 Drug Carriers in Medicine and Biology
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
August 15 - 20, 2010 Membrane Transport Proteins
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
August 16 - 19, 2010 Systems biology of development
Ascona, Switzerland Further information
EMBO Workshop
August 22 - 24, 2010 Post-translational modifications of proteins: from discovery to functional analysis
Uppsala, Sweden Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
August 26 - September 4, 2010 Viral vectors in gene therapy: applications and novel production methods
Kuopio, Finland Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Virology Books
August 29 - September 5, 2010 Cryo-electron microscopy and 3-D image analysis
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
August 31 - September 10, 2010 Host-microbes interactions
Spetses, Greece Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
August 31 - September 8, 2010 Protein expression, purification and crystallization (PEPC-7)
Hamburg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
September 1 - 5, 2010 Interface between the Ubiquitin family and the DNA damage response
Red Island, Rovinj, Croatia Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 6 - 10, 2010 Computational aspects of protein structure determination and analysis: from data to structure to function
Cambridge, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
September 14 - 17, 2010 Telomeres and the DNA damage response
Marseille, France Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 20 - October 2, 2010 Current methods in systems biology
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 22 - 25, 2010 Chemical Biology 2010
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
September 26 - 30, 2010 Molecular and cellular basis of regeneration and tissue repair
Sesimbra, Portugal Further information
EMBO Conference Series
September 26 - October 1, 2010 OzBio2010: Molecules of life: from discovery to biotechnology
Melbourne, Australia Further information
This premier international scientific meeting brings together the 12th IUBMB Conference, the 21st FAOBMB Conference and the ComBio2010 meeting. This unique blend of participating societies will generate an outstanding scientific and technological event, which will be of major interest to biochemists, molecular biologists, cell and developmental biologists, and plant scientists. The world\'s top speakers in these areas will present their exciting new findings in major plenary sessions and in a wide array of more specialist symposia.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 29 - October 3, 2010 Experimental approaches to evolution and ecology using yeast
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Yeast and Mycology
September 30 - October 4, 2010 Transcriptional Regulation By Chromatin And Rna Polymerase II Program
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 3 - 8, 2010 Emergent properties of the cytoskeleton: molecules to cells
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
October 3 - 8, 2010 Towards a comprehensive understanding of endoplasmic reticulum functions
Gerona, Spain Further information
EMBO Conference Series
October 9 - 14, 2010 Cell biology meets microbiology
Krakow, Poland Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
October 10 - 15, 2010 10th International Conference in Systems Biology (ICSB)
Edinburgh, UK Further information
A catalyst for international collaboration in Systems Biology
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 13 - 16, 2010 The non-coding genome
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO/EMBL Symposium
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 14 - 17, 2010 Biochemistry and Cell Biology of ESCRTs In Health And Disease
Snowbird, UT, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium. Structural and Mechanistic Analysis of ESCRTs, ESCRTs, MVB biogenesis, and cargo sorting, ESCRTs and HIV-1, ESCRTs, development, and cell division, ESCRTs, receptor downregulation, and cancer, ESCRTs in neurodegeneratio
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 14 - 19 Molecular and cellular cognition
Venice, Italy Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
October 18 - 23, 2010 Advanced analysis and informatics of microarray data
Hinxton, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Lab on a chip
October 21 - 24, 2010 Post Translational Modifications: Detection and Physiological Evaluation
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium. With the completion of the human genome and rapid progress in understanding the proteome, it is now clear that the next phase of molecular bioscience will by necessity largely focus on post-translational modifications (PTMs) and their regulation of protein functions. Currently, there are over four hundred known PTMs, and almost without exception, virtually all polypeptides are post-translationally modified. Given the relatively small numbers of genes and polypeptides in complex organisms, PTMs create the enormous and highly dynamic structural and functional diversity required to regulate essential cellular functions. In recent years, the technologies to quantitatively study PTMs at the molecular and structural level have developed rapidly, particularly in the area of mass spectrometry. This biannual meeting brings together leading experts in the study of a wide variety different PTMs to allow cross fertilization, presentation of the most exciting breakthroughs in the methodology and biological functions of PTMs, and to generate lively discussions of new concepts and approaches.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 22 - 25, 2010 Systems Biology for Biochemists
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
An ASBMB Sponsored Special Symposium
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 25 - November 1, 2010 Solution scattering from biological macromolecules
Hamburg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
October 29 - 31, 2010 Biochemistry of Membrane Traffic: Secretory and Endocyticpathways
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium. Although more than 30% of human genes encode for proteins that traverse the secretory pathway, many mysteries remain about how proteins traverse this route. There is outstanding biochemistry being carried out with the goal of defining the precise molecular events that drive the transport of membrane proteins from one compartment to another in eukaryotic cells. We seek to bring together those interested in understanding how molecules drive the secretory and endocytic pathways, with focus on molecular mechanism, to share recent breakthroughs and discuss current controversies. This area of research is describing entirely new biochemical processes, and represents quantitative molecular analysis of three dimensional, cellular events.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
November 13 - 16, 2010 From functional genomics to systems biology
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Genomics
November 14 - 17, 2010 RNA control of cell dynamics
Kibbutz Ein Gedi, Israel Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
November 21 - 26, 2010 Molecular perspectives on protein-protein interactions
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
December 7 - 10, 2010 2010: The 33rd Annual Meeting of MBSJ
Kobe Port Island, Japan Further information
The Molecular Biology Society Japan annual meeting. Held jointly with JBS (The Japanese Biochemical Society)
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
See also: Molecular Biology Conferences 2010
Recommended reading:
January 2010
January 8 - 13, 2010 Structural Genomics: Expanding the Horizons of Structural Biology
Breckenridge, CO, USA Further information
Structural Biology continues to be one of the most prolific and informative ways to make biological and biomedical discoveries at the turn of the millennium, and provides fundamental molecular level insights into the underlying biological and biochemical functions. Structural genomics has been at the forefront of these developments as a major contributor to the advances of high throughput (HT) technologies and methodologies that span the gene to structure process by both crystallography and NMR. In parallel, the rapid expansion of the genome sequencing projects is substantially increasing the complexity and size of the known protein universe, and providing structural biologists with a wealth of new opportunities and challenges to explore, the diversity of biological macromolecules and their relationships to, function, evolution and disease. The goal of this Keystone Symposia meeting is to explore how we can best harness the current approaches from high throughput structural genomics to tackle present and future challenges in structural biology and how we can directly apply these methods to topical and important problems in structural, molecular, cellular and chemical biology. We will focus on approaches that are applicable not only for large consortia, but also for single investigator laboratories and smaller scale projects. Using such methodologies and technologies, we can then keep pace with the genome sequencing efforts and continue to make significant contributions to the constantly increasing discoveries on the intricacies and vagaries of complex biological processes – such as mammalian proteomes, microbial pathogens and cellular and signaling networks /systems. In this way, structural biology will continue to lead the way in making innovative discoveries in biological, chemical, and biomedical research.
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
January 10 - 15, 2010 Origin of Life
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference. The Gordon Research Seminar on Origin Of Life encompasses many disciplines including molecular biology, the RNA world, geobiology, and genomics.
January 12 - 17, 2010 HIV Biology and Pathogenesis
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
The Keystone Symposia Meeting on HIV Biology and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of HIV research including molecular biology. The focus will be to highlight recent advances in our understanding of HIV/AIDS ranging from the earliest events of transmission, to treatments for infected individuals, to interventions to prevent viral transmission. The goal of the meeting is to emphasize the basic mechanisms of viral replication and the interplay of the virus with the immune system leading to the development of AIDS.
Suggested reading: Lentiviruses and Macrophages HIV Vaccines
January 12 - 17, 2010 Protein and lipid function in secretion and endocytosis
Goldegg am See, Austria Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
January 14 - 19, 2010 RNA Silencing: Mechanism, Biology and Application
Keystone, CO, USA Further information
Since the discovery in 1993 of the first small silencing RNA, a dizzying number of small RNA classes have been identified, including microRNAs, various types of siRNAs and piRNAs. These classes differ in their biogenesis, modes of target regulation and in the biological pathways they regulate. However, there is also a growing realization that these distinct small RNA pathways are interconnected. These pathways functions in RNA-based immunity, developmental gene regulation, transcriptional silencing, and genomic stability. The aim of this meeting is to explore the similarities and differences between RNA silencing pathways, to probe their underlying molecular mechanisms, to learn, by illustrative examples, the logic behind RNA-guided regulation of gene expression, and to explore new methods for harnessing these mechanisms for gene discovery and therapeutics applications.
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
January 17 - 22, 2010 Molecular Basis for Chromatin Structure and Regulation
Taos, NM, USA Further information
Chromatin structure and dynamics underlie every aspect of genome function. The past several years have seen an exponential growth in our knowledge of facts, ranging from catalogs of histone protein posttranslational modifications to complete genome sequences of many organisms to atomic resolution structures of many key molecular players. But our mechanistic understanding lags far behind. New reagents, methodologies and concepts are needed. This meeting will bring together leading experts in diverse areas of chromatin biology who are developing and applying new approaches to develop a concrete mechanistic link between chromatin structure and chromatin function. The topics covered include: fundamental in vivo physical chemical studies of transcription factor binding; real-time single molecule in vivo imaging; state-of-the-art methods for discovery, characterization, and manipulation of histone- and nucleosome-modifying enzymes and for the synthesis and characterization of their specifically-modified histone and nucleosome substrates; single molecule biophysics studies of molecular mechanisms; atomic resolution structural studies; and locus- and chromosome-wide phenomena such as heterochromatin formation and dosage compensation.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
January 24 - 29, 2010 Protein Cofactors, Radicals and Quinones
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
January 24 - 29, 2010 Sensory Transduction in Microorganisms
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
January 31 - February 5, 2010 Biology of Spirochetes
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis
January 31 - February 5, 2010 New Insights into Healthspan and Diseases of Aging: From Molecular to Functional Senescence
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
The focus is on the molecular and cellular mechanisms by which tissue and organ function deteriorate and homeostasis fails rather than on longevity itself, which has been the theme of previous Keystone Symposia meetings on aging. Work from a variety of models is recognizing that organisms, especially humans, are complicated systems in which interventions that extend lifespan might not necessarily block the aging and loss of function in specific organs or tissues and vice versa. Continuing this approach will help us gain an understanding and appreciation of the complexity that underlies aging in humans. The aim of this meeting is to reveal the integration and communication between pathways and systems during functional aging and their relationship with longevity. This meeting will highlight important questions to address in future research. Most importantly, what are the common and disparate causes underlying the cellular and physiological mechanisms responsible for human senescent phenotypes?
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
February 2010
February 1 - 5, 2010 Phosphoproteomics
Odense, Denmark Further information
EMBO Practical Course
February 7 - 11, 2010 Genomic approaches to evolution and development
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
February 7 - 12, 2010 Glycolipid and Sphingolipid Biology
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 7 - 12, 2010 Oxygen Radicals: Mechanisms That Underpin Redox Biology
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 13 - 14, 2010 Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar Extracellular Proteases and Their Regulation: New Functions in Development and Disease
February 14 - 16, 2010 31st Lorne Genome Conference on the Organization and Expression of the Genome
Lorne, Australia Further information
The annual Lorne Genome Conference on the organization and expression of the human genome
Suggested reading: Genomics Books
February 14 - 19, 2010 Antibiotics and Resistance: Challenges and Solutions
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
In the face of a growing crisis in antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new bacterial pathogens, there is a pressing clinical need for new antibiotics. Paradoxically, this call for new drugs comes at a time when investment in antibiotic development in the pharmaceutical industry is at historically low levels. Despite the promise of the genomic revolution to inform drug development and innovations in drug discovery and the fundamental biology that underpins it, modern control of infectious disease with antibiotics is perilously fragile. This meeting brings together researchers from medicine, academe and industry and from across scientific disciplines to discuss the challenges of antibiotic development in the 21st Century. What is the scope of the problem? What are possible solutions? What are the imperatives for the short and long term and is the traditional antibiotic paradigm in need of an overhaul? These questions will be the focus of the meeting that will help to define the problems and solutions in antibiotic development.
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
February 14 - 19, 2010 Myelin
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 14 - 19, 2010 Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 16 - 21, 2010 Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis
Taos, NM, Canada Further information
The Keystone Symposia meeting on the Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of virus infection pathways and cellular responses. A central goal is the identification of critical virus-cell crosstalk during these processes. Rather than dividing viruses into separate “categories” such as positive-sense RNA viruses and DNA viruses, the meeting highlights common aspects of virus lifecycles among different virus groups. The multi-disciplinary nature of the proposed meeting is important in bringing together investigators using structural, molecular, cell biological, immunological and epidemiological methods. This emphasis on shared themes and multiple experimental approaches will continue to be critical to future advances in virology. While there has been spectacular recent progress in our understanding of virus lifecycles, we are still very far from being able to design antiviral strategies, and unexpected novel aspects of virus cell biology are constantly being discovered. Plenary sessions will cover the most important aspects of virus interactions with cells. Day 1 will include cutting-edge structural virology studies and imaging methods to follow single virus particles during entry. Day 2 will focus on the entry mechanisms of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and the roles of cellular proteins in virus infection. Day 3 will cover viral and cellular aspects of virus replication and cellular antiviral responses. The last day will focus on the important areas of virus assembly and pathogenesis. Late-breaking exciting developments in this fast-moving field will be incorporated by short presentations and afternoon workshop sessions drawn from the submitted abstracts.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 21 - 26, 2010 Angiotensin: Molecular Basis for Action, Dysfunction and New Therapeutic Approaches
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
February 21 - 26, 2010 Plant-Herbivore Interaction
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
February 21 - 26, 2010 RNA Silencing Mechanisms in Plants
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
Although the core mechanisms of RNA silencing are conserved across eukaryotes, plants have deployed gene silencing in a particularly wide variety of molecular, developmental, adaptive, defensive and epigenetic contexts. Plants, therefore, serve as among the most insightful models to illuminate mechanisms of RNA-directed DNA methylation and transcriptional silencing, antiviral defense, small RNA biogenesis and effector mechanisms, and the roles of small RNA-mediated regulation in development and stress responses. We will highlight recent mechanistic advances about how RNA silencing pathways integrate with plant processes, acting at levels ranging from single-nucleotide to population, as regulatory devices. Session topics emphasize integration between silencing mechanisms and developmental regulation and stress responses, DNA and chromatin modification, host-pathogen dynamics, and natural variation. The Symposium will also highlight cutting-edge, high-throughput technology being developed and applied to understand the roles of RNA-mediated silencing across the plant genome.
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
February 23 - 26, 2010 Virus-host: partners in pathogenicity
San Jose, Costa Rica Further information
EMBO Lecture Series
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 26 - 27, 2010 5th Annual Biomarkers Congress
Manchester, UK Further information
The event explores core topics such as integration of applications and enabling technologies, molecular diagnostics and assay development, imaging in preclinical and clinical development, and biomarker discovery.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
February 27 - March 4, 2010 Lymphocyte Activation and Gene Expression
Breckenridge, CO, USA Further information
Lymphocytes mediate the adaptive immune responses to antigens derived from infectious agents, transformed cells, transplanted organs and, in the setting of autoimmunity, ones own cells. The study of lymphocyte activation and gene expression is central to understanding the complex biology of these cells and offers hope for regulating these cells in different clinical settings. Much has been learned in the past several decades in this field. Receptors, enzymes and adapter molecules have been identified, signaling cascades and networks have been defined, and the complex regulation of gene expression has been explored. Nonetheless many basic questions remain to be elucidated. Among several contentious areas of research that will be presented by experts at this meeting are the actual means by which antigen receptors initiate the activation process, how activation induces changes in signaling pathways, intracellular organelles and the cytoskeleton, and how changes in chromatin and transcriptional factors determine gene expression.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
February 27 - March 5, 2010 ATP-Binding Cassette (ABC) Proteins: From Multidrug Resistance to Genetic Diseases
Innsbruck, Austria Further information
3rd FEBS Special Meeting on ABC Proteins - ABC2010 ABC2010 will cover all basic and applied aspects of ABC proteins, both in normal and cancer cells, as well as their important roles in genetic diseases as well as drug resistance phenomena in cancer or microbial systems. Leading scientists from all over the world and representatives of major pharmaceutical companies will present and discuss latest news on ABC proteins operating in bacteria, fungi, plants, parasites and humans. We were able to commit numerous leading experts to participate, with many new faces attending as plenary speakers.
Suggested reading: ABC Transporters in Microorganisms
March 2010
March 3 - 5, 2010 EMBO Workshop on Visualizing Biological Data (VizBi)
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Workshop. A primary way that biologists interact with their data is through visualization systems, ranging from simple, stand-alone methods to complex, integrated software packages. However, the sheer volume and diversity of both data and of visualization systems presents an increasing challenge for biologists. The goal of the workshop is to bring together, for the first time, researchers developing and using systems to visualize a broad range of biological data, including sequences, genomes, phylogenies, macromolecular structures, systems biology, microscopy, and magnetic resonance imaging. In selecting topics for this workshop, we have focused on the visualization of processed and annotated data in their biological context, rather than the processing of raw data.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
March 7 - 12, 2010 Antibody Biology and Engineering: From Basic Mechanisms to Antibody-Based Therapeutics
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
March 7 - 12, 2010 Protein Transport Across Cell Membranes
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: ABC Transporters in Microorganisms
March 13 - 19, 2010 Genes and Behavior
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
March 14 - 19, 2010 Fibroblast Growth Factors in Development and Disease
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
March 14 - 19, 2010 New Antibacterial Discovery and Development
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology and Antimicrobials
March 16 - 26, 2010 Mass spectrometry in protein analysis and characterization
Montevideo, Uruguay Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
March 21 - 26, 2010 Biology of Acute Respiratory Infection
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology books
March 21 - 26, 2010 DNA Damage, Mutation and Cancer
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
March 21 - 26, 2010 HIV Vaccines
Banff, Canada Further information
Since an HIV vaccine is proving to be a particularly recalcitrant problem, a novel approach that facilitates a wider cross-fertilization of ideas would be very valuable and would be welcomed by the broader HIV vaccine research community. To that end, the major development proposed for the 2010 Keystone HIV Vaccine Symposium is to foster innovative ideas and new collaborations with immunology and vaccinology as it pertains to other viral diseases. Specifically, we propose that a new Joint Symposium of HIV Vaccines in conjunction with Viral Immunity be convened. This Joint Symposium would retain the valuable format that includes joint and separate sessions covering general and specific principles.
Suggested reading: AIDS Vaccine Development: Challenges and Opportunities
March 21 - 26, 2010 Nuclear Receptors: Development, Physiology and Disease
Keystone, CO, USA Further information
Nuclear receptors represent a family of ligand-regulated transcription factors that play central roles in development, physiology, and metabolism. Upon binding small lipophilic hormones and metabolites, such as steroids, fatty acids, and bile acids, nuclear receptors switch their regulatory status, reprogramming gene expression in target tissues. Current research is aimed at defining roles for these receptors in normal development and metabolism as well as better understanding how nuclear receptor dysfunction contributes to diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and neuronal disorders. Nuclear receptors are also a major target for drug development, with many compounds on the market and several in ongoing human trials. This meeting will highlight recent breakthroughs in nuclear receptor research, promote interactions between scientists from industry and academia, and provide opportunities for senior scientists to interact with younger researchers and trainees.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
March 21 - 26, 2010 Viral Immunity
Banff, Canada Further information
The most exciting recent advances in viral immunity include the increased understanding of the role of innate immune mechanisms, interaction between innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen manipulation of host responses, and activation of immune responses and generation of immune memory. Despite these advances, basic mechanisms of anti-viral immunity are poorly characterized particularly for chronic infections. Efforts are also required to exploit recent research advances to improve vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. This meeting will include both innate and adaptive immunity and juxtapose animal models with human studies as it attempts to foster collaborative efforts between attending viral immunologists and the HIV vaccine researchers in the joint meeting. Expert talks in plenary sessions will encompass the latest in critical areas of viral immunity. Workshops and additional presentations will cover provocative and cutting-edge results from attendees. The meeting objective is to accelerate progress in understanding and manipulating anti-viral immunity to improve human health.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
March 27 - 31, 2010 Hedgehog signaling: from developmental biology to anti-cancer drugs
St. Jean Cap Ferrat, France Further information
EMBO Workshop
April 2010
April 7 - 12, 2010 Dynamics of Eukaryotic Transcription during Development
Big Sky, MT, USA Further information
Gene expression in eukaryotes is regulated primarily at the level of transcription. Although much is known about the basic building blocks required to recruit RNA polymerase II to a gene promoter and establish a pre-initiation complex, recent data reveals that a great deal of regulation occurs during transcription elongation, and involves dynamic interactions between the transcription machinery and chromatin structure. This meeting is intended to explore these recently appreciated mechanisms for gene regulation and to showcase the novel techniques that have permitted these advances. Of particular interest are the use of comprehensive, genomic approaches, and their use towards understanding the different patterns of gene expression in different model systems, including stem cells and developing tissues, as well as the application of novel molecular probing and cell imaging techniques to investigate the global nuclear architecture and its impact on gene expression.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
April 8 - 17, 2010 Advanced optical microscopy 2010
Plymouth, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
April 10 - 13, 2010 In silico systems biology: network reconstruction, analysis and network based modelling
Hinxton, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
April 10 - 16, 2010 Methods for miRNA discovery and analysis: from in situ hybridization to new generation sequencing
Monterotondo Scalo, Italy Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
April 11 - 16, 2010 Malaria: New Approaches to Understanding Host-Parasite Interactions
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Malaria has entered a new era—a partially effective vaccine may be licensed in the not too distant future, and the genomes of host, parasite and vector are now widely available. Major advances have been made in understanding basic parasite cell biology and fundamental immunology, using rapidly evolving molecular genetic technologies for both host and parasite. Systems biology approaches also offer a new paradigm for interrogating complex host responses to a complex pathogen. Future progress will require greater integration of these technologies to elucidate parasite cell biology, host-parasite interactions, and the specific mechanisms that confer protection in our model systems and in nature. This symposium will bring together these new fields to examine those aspects of host and Plasmodium biology important for understanding immunity and pathogenesis.
Suggested reading: Parasitology Booksy Books
April 11 - 16, 2010 Molecular Targets for Control of Vector-Borne Diseases: Bridging Lab and Field Research
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Vigorous research since the completion of the Anopheles gambiae genome sequence has established the malaria mosquito as a model organism for host-pathogen biology. However, the translation of this growing post-genomic knowledge base into new vector-targeted malaria control strategies is a distinct challenge that now leads laboratory-based molecular researchers to confront the complexity and heterogeneity of the natural malaria transmission system. Simultaneously, a body of field-based vector researchers has been developing new ways to utilize existing vector control tools such as bednets and insecticides that, if consistently implemented, can yield impressive outcomes. Lab and field based practitioners attend different meetings and rarely engage in direct dialog. This conference will examine the tension between the development of new practical malaria control tools, including genomic ones, and the advantages of more fully exploiting existing tools. It is hoped that the scientific discussion will help influence individual and programmatic research priorities.
Suggested reading: Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis
April 17 - 23, 2010 Photosensory Receptors and Signal Transduction
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
April 24 - 28, 2010 2nd ASM Conference on Mobile DNA
Montreal, Canada Further information
American Society Microbiology conference 2010.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
April 24 - 28, 2010 ASBMB Annual Meeting
Anaheim, CA, USA Further information
Highlighting the scientific scope of the Society, the scientific program will be organized into three Thematic Groups, with scheduling of individual Thematic Programs arranged to enhance maximal participation of meeting attendees. The Thematic Programs have been developed to provide indepth coverage of specific topics within general areas, with the goal of appealing to biochemists and molecular biologists at all professional levels
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
April 26 - May 1, 2010 Computational RNA Biology
Cargese, France Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
May 2010
May 2 - 7, 2010 Proteolytic Enzymes and Their Inhibitors
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Proteolysis: The Most Important and Ubiquitous Post Translational Modification That Regulates Biology, Life and Death
May 3 - 12, 2010 Computational molecular evolution
Heraklion (Crete), Greece Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
May 4 - 7, 2010 Proteolysis and neurodegeneration (5th INPROTEOLYS meeting)
Madrid, Spain Further information
EMBO Workshop
May 5 - 7, 2010 Catalytic mechanisms by biological systems: at the interface between chemistry and biology
Hamburg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
May 5 - 7, 2010 Scientific programming and data visualization for structural biology
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
May 6 - 9, 2010 EMBO Molecular Medicine Workshop: Cell guidance signals in cancer
Portofino Vetta (Camogli), Italy Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Books on Medical Microbiology
May 10 - 13, 2010 RNA quality control
Vienna, Austria Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
May 16 - 21, 2010 Immunochemistry and Immunobiology
Les Diablerets, Switzerland Further information
Gordon Research Conference
May 16 - 21, 2010 Ligand Recognition and Molecular Gating
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Gordon Research Conference
May 17 - 21, 2010 Recombination and connections to SUMO and ubiquitin modifications
Castelvecchio Pascoli (Lucca), Italy Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
May 18 - 21, 2010 Advanced light microscopy techniques and their applications‚ 10th International ELMI Meeting
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Workshop
May 21 - 26, 2010 Cellular signaling and molecular medicine
Cavtat (Dubrovnik), Croatia Further information
EMBO Conference Series
May 23 - 31, 2010 Lipid rafts: methods for studying membrane organization
Dresden, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
May 30 - Jun 4, 2010 Chemotactic Cytokines
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Gordon Research Conference
May 30 - June 4, 2010 Antiviral applications of RNA interference
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
May 31 - June 5, 2010 Structural characterization of macromolecular complexes
Grenoble, France Further information
EMBO Practical Course
June 2010
June 1 - 4, 2010 Emerging themes in infection biology
Nice, France Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Bacteriology Books
June 2 - 5, 2010 Microtubules: structure, regulation and functions
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Pili and Flagella: Current Research and Future Trends
June 6 - 11, 2010 Molecular and Cellular Neurobiology
Hong Kong, China Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 6 - 11, 2010 Nox Family NADPH Oxidases: Towards Understanding Nox/Duox Function
Les Diablerets, Switzerland Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology
June 6 - 11, 2010 Phosphorylation and G-Protein Mediated Signaling Networks
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 12 - 18, 2010 Meiosis
New London, NH, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
June 12 - 16, 2010 Genomic approaches to interactions between plant viruses, their hosts and their vectors
Fenestrelle, Italy Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Microorganisms
June 13 - 17, 2010 Replication/repair and segregation of chromosomes
Munzingen (Freiburg), Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
June 13 - 18, 2010 Cellular and Molecular Fungal Biology
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Medical Mycology Books
June 13 - 18, 2010 Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 13 - 18, 2010 Salt and Water Stress in Plants
Les Diablerets, Switzerland Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
June 16 - 18, 2010 Viruses and innate immunity
Dublin, Ireland Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Virology Books
June 17 - 20, 2010 C. elegans development and gene expression
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
June 17 - 27, 2010 Electron microscopy and stereology in cell biology
Oslo, Norway Further information
EMBO Practical Course
June 19 - 23, 2010 Chromosome segregation and aneuploidy
Edinburgh, UK Further information
EMBO Workshop
June 19 - 24, 2010 Gene transcription in yeast: from mechanisms to functional genomics
San Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Yeast and Mycology
June 19 - 24, 2010 The cytoskeleton in development and pathology
Djurhamn, Sweden Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
June 20 - 26, 2010 The molecular and developmental biology of Drosophila
Kolymbari, Greece Further information
EMBO Conference Series
June 20 - 27, 2010 International Conference on Bioinformatics of Genome Regulation and Structure\Systems Biology (BGRS\SB-2010)
Novosibirsk, Russia Further information
Hosted by The Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The results of the most recent research in these fields will be presented. The Conference program will include plenary papers, session papers and round tables.
Suggested reading: Bioinformatics Books
June 26 - 27, 2010 Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
June 27 - Jul 2, 2010 Bacterial Cell Surfaces
New London, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
June 27 - Jul 2, 2010 Biology of Host-Parasite Interactions
Newport, RI, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Parasitology Books
June 27 - Jul 2, 2010 Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
June 27 - July 3, 2010 Application of transient kinetic methods to biological macromolecules
Canterbury, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
June 28 - July 2, 2010 High-throughput RNAi and data analysis
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
June 28 - July 4, 2010 Biomolecular simulation
Paris, France Further information
EMBO Practical Course
July 2010
July 1 - 9, 2010 3D developmental imaging
Oeiras, Portugal Further information
EMBO Practical Course
July 4 - 8, 2010 SMBE 2010 Annual Meeting
Lyon, France Further information
The 18th annual meeting of the Society for Molecular Biology and Evolution-SMBE 2010-will be held in Lyon, France July 4-8, 2010, in the city\'s convention center. The Meeting will highlight the latest research on molecular evolution, especially comparative genomics, population genomics, phylogenomics, and molecular evo-devo.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
July 4 - 9, 2010 Marine Microbes: From Genes to Global Cycles
Tilton, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
July 10 - 16, 2010 Mitochondria and Chloroplasts
Lucca (Barga), Italy Further information
Partnerships That Led to Eukaryotic Life
July 10 - 16, 2010 Bioelectrochemistry
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar
July 10 - 16, 2010 Microbial Toxins and Pathogenicity
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Molecular Mechanisms in Pathogenesis and Host-Microbe Interactions
Suggested reading: Microbial Toxins: Current Research and Future Trends
July 10 - 16, 2010 Signaling by Adhesion Receptors: New Directions in Cell Adhesion and Signaling
Waterville, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 11 - 16, 2010 Drug Metabolism
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
After Forty Years of Inquiry: An Era of Engineered Enzymes and Individualized Drug Therapies
July 11 - 16, 2010 Intrinsically Disordered Proteins: Introducing Unfoldome and Unfoldomics
Davidson, NC, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 11 - 16, 2010 Ion Channels
Tilton, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 11 - 16, 2010 Proteoglycans
Andover, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 12 - 23, 2010 Molecular approaches to evolution and development
Fiskebackskil, Sweden Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
July 18 - 23, 2010 Diffraction Methods in Structural Biology
Lewiston, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 18 - 23, 2010 Enzymes, Coenzymes and Metabolic Pathways
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Mechanistic and Structural Characterization of Enzymes With Relevance to Biochemical Pathways and Novel Therapeutics
July 18 - 23, 2010 Metabolic Basis of Ecology
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Environmental Molecular Microbiology
July 18 - 23, 2010 Microbial Stress Response
South Hadley, MA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 18 - 23, 2010 Plant Molecular Biology
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
July 18 - 23, 2010 Proprotein Processing, Trafficking and Secretion
New London, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 18 - 23, 2010 The Biology of Post-Transcriptional Gene Regulation
Newport, RI, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 25 - 30, 2010 Chromatin Structure and Function
Smithfield, RI, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
July 29 - August 4, 2010 Ubiquitin and SUMO
Split, Croatia Further information
EMBO Practical Course
August 2010
August 1 - 6, 2010 Molecular Basis of Microbial One-Carbon Metabolism
Lewiston, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Molecular Microbiology
August 1 - 6, 2010 Multidimensional NMR in structural biology
Castelvecchio Pascoli (Lucca), Italy Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
August 1 - 6, 2010 Mutagenesis
Waterville, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
August 8 - 13, 2010 Plant and Microbial Cytoskeleton
Andover, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Bacteria: Genomics and Molecular Biology
August 15 - 20, 2010 Drug Carriers in Medicine and Biology
Waterville Valley, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
August 15 - 20, 2010 Membrane Transport Proteins
Biddeford, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
August 16 - 19, 2010 Systems biology of development
Ascona, Switzerland Further information
EMBO Workshop
August 22 - 24, 2010 Post-translational modifications of proteins: from discovery to functional analysis
Uppsala, Sweden Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
August 26 - September 4, 2010 Viral vectors in gene therapy: applications and novel production methods
Kuopio, Finland Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Virology Books
August 29 - September 5, 2010 Cryo-electron microscopy and 3-D image analysis
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
August 31 - September 10, 2010 Host-microbes interactions
Spetses, Greece Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
August 31 - September 8, 2010 Protein expression, purification and crystallization (PEPC-7)
Hamburg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Bacterial Secreted Proteins: Secretory Mechanisms and Role in Pathogenesis
September 2010
September 1 - 5, 2010 Interface between the Ubiquitin family and the DNA damage response
Red Island, Rovinj, Croatia Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 6 - 10, 2010 Computational aspects of protein structure determination and analysis: from data to structure to function
Cambridge, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
September 14 - 17, 2010 Telomeres and the DNA damage response
Marseille, France Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 20 - October 2, 2010 Current methods in systems biology
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 22 - 25, 2010 Chemical Biology 2010
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
September 26 - 30, 2010 Molecular and cellular basis of regeneration and tissue repair
Sesimbra, Portugal Further information
EMBO Conference Series
September 26 - October 1, 2010 OzBio2010: Molecules of life: from discovery to biotechnology
Melbourne, Australia Further information
This premier international scientific meeting brings together the 12th IUBMB Conference, the 21st FAOBMB Conference and the ComBio2010 meeting. This unique blend of participating societies will generate an outstanding scientific and technological event, which will be of major interest to biochemists, molecular biologists, cell and developmental biologists, and plant scientists. The world\'s top speakers in these areas will present their exciting new findings in major plenary sessions and in a wide array of more specialist symposia.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
September 29 - October 3, 2010 Experimental approaches to evolution and ecology using yeast
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Yeast and Mycology
September 30 - October 4, 2010 Transcriptional Regulation By Chromatin And Rna Polymerase II Program
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 2010
October 3 - 8, 2010 Emergent properties of the cytoskeleton: molecules to cells
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
October 3 - 8, 2010 Towards a comprehensive understanding of endoplasmic reticulum functions
Gerona, Spain Further information
EMBO Conference Series
October 9 - 14, 2010 Cell biology meets microbiology
Krakow, Poland Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
October 10 - 15, 2010 10th International Conference in Systems Biology (ICSB)
Edinburgh, UK Further information
A catalyst for international collaboration in Systems Biology
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 13 - 16, 2010 The non-coding genome
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO/EMBL Symposium
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 14 - 17, 2010 Biochemistry and Cell Biology of ESCRTs In Health And Disease
Snowbird, UT, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium. Structural and Mechanistic Analysis of ESCRTs, ESCRTs, MVB biogenesis, and cargo sorting, ESCRTs and HIV-1, ESCRTs, development, and cell division, ESCRTs, receptor downregulation, and cancer, ESCRTs in neurodegeneratio
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 14 - 19 Molecular and cellular cognition
Venice, Italy Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
October 18 - 23, 2010 Advanced analysis and informatics of microarray data
Hinxton, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Lab on a chip
October 21 - 24, 2010 Post Translational Modifications: Detection and Physiological Evaluation
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium. With the completion of the human genome and rapid progress in understanding the proteome, it is now clear that the next phase of molecular bioscience will by necessity largely focus on post-translational modifications (PTMs) and their regulation of protein functions. Currently, there are over four hundred known PTMs, and almost without exception, virtually all polypeptides are post-translationally modified. Given the relatively small numbers of genes and polypeptides in complex organisms, PTMs create the enormous and highly dynamic structural and functional diversity required to regulate essential cellular functions. In recent years, the technologies to quantitatively study PTMs at the molecular and structural level have developed rapidly, particularly in the area of mass spectrometry. This biannual meeting brings together leading experts in the study of a wide variety different PTMs to allow cross fertilization, presentation of the most exciting breakthroughs in the methodology and biological functions of PTMs, and to generate lively discussions of new concepts and approaches.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 22 - 25, 2010 Systems Biology for Biochemists
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
An ASBMB Sponsored Special Symposium
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
October 25 - November 1, 2010 Solution scattering from biological macromolecules
Hamburg, Germany Further information
EMBO Practical Course
October 29 - 31, 2010 Biochemistry of Membrane Traffic: Secretory and Endocyticpathways
Tahoe City, CA, USA Further information
ASBMB Special Symposium. Although more than 30% of human genes encode for proteins that traverse the secretory pathway, many mysteries remain about how proteins traverse this route. There is outstanding biochemistry being carried out with the goal of defining the precise molecular events that drive the transport of membrane proteins from one compartment to another in eukaryotic cells. We seek to bring together those interested in understanding how molecules drive the secretory and endocytic pathways, with focus on molecular mechanism, to share recent breakthroughs and discuss current controversies. This area of research is describing entirely new biochemical processes, and represents quantitative molecular analysis of three dimensional, cellular events.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
November 2010
November 13 - 16, 2010 From functional genomics to systems biology
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Genomics
November 14 - 17, 2010 RNA control of cell dynamics
Kibbutz Ein Gedi, Israel Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: RNA and the Regulation of Gene Expression: A Hidden Layer of Complexity
November 21 - 26, 2010 Molecular perspectives on protein-protein interactions
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
December 2010
December 7 - 10, 2010 2010: The 33rd Annual Meeting of MBSJ
Kobe Port Island, Japan Further information
The Molecular Biology Society Japan annual meeting. Held jointly with JBS (The Japanese Biochemical Society)
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
See also: Molecular Biology Conferences 2010
Recommended reading:
Labels: Molecular Biology Conferences 2010, Molecular Biology Meeting, Molecular Biology Meetings 2010, Molecular Biology Symposia, Molecular Biology Symposia 2010, Molecular Biology Symposium
Microbiology Conference Update
The following conferences have been added to our comprehensive list at Microbiology Conferences 2010
January 12 - 17, 2010 HIV Biology and Pathogenesis
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
The Keystone Symposia Meeting on HIV Biology and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of HIV research including molecular biology. The focus will be to highlight recent advances in our understanding of HIV/AIDS ranging from the earliest events of transmission, to treatments for infected individuals, to interventions to prevent viral transmission. The goal of the meeting is to emphasize the basic mechanisms of viral replication and the interplay of the virus with the immune system leading to the development of AIDS.
Suggested reading: Lentiviruses and Macrophages HIV Vaccines
February 14 - 19, 2010 Antibiotics and Resistance: Challenges and Solutions
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
In the face of a growing crisis in antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new bacterial pathogens, there is a pressing clinical need for new antibiotics. Paradoxically, this call for new drugs comes at a time when investment in antibiotic development in the pharmaceutical industry is at historically low levels. Despite the promise of the genomic revolution to inform drug development and innovations in drug discovery and the fundamental biology that underpins it, modern control of infectious disease with antibiotics is perilously fragile. This meeting brings together researchers from medicine, academe and industry and from across scientific disciplines to discuss the challenges of antibiotic development in the 21st Century. What is the scope of the problem? What are possible solutions? What are the imperatives for the short and long term and is the traditional antibiotic paradigm in need of an overhaul? These questions will be the focus of the meeting that will help to define the problems and solutions in antibiotic development.
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
February 16 - 21, 2010 Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis
Taos, NM, Canada Further information
The Keystone Symposia meeting on the Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of virus infection pathways and cellular responses. A central goal is the identification of critical virus-cell crosstalk during these processes. Rather than dividing viruses into separate “categories” such as positive-sense RNA viruses and DNA viruses, the meeting highlights common aspects of virus lifecycles among different virus groups. The multi-disciplinary nature of the proposed meeting is important in bringing together investigators using structural, molecular, cell biological, immunological and epidemiological methods. This emphasis on shared themes and multiple experimental approaches will continue to be critical to future advances in virology. While there has been spectacular recent progress in our understanding of virus lifecycles, we are still very far from being able to design antiviral strategies, and unexpected novel aspects of virus cell biology are constantly being discovered. Plenary sessions will cover the most important aspects of virus interactions with cells. Day 1 will include cutting-edge structural virology studies and imaging methods to follow single virus particles during entry. Day 2 will focus on the entry mechanisms of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and the roles of cellular proteins in virus infection. Day 3 will cover viral and cellular aspects of virus replication and cellular antiviral responses. The last day will focus on the important areas of virus assembly and pathogenesis. Late-breaking exciting developments in this fast-moving field will be incorporated by short presentations and afternoon workshop sessions drawn from the submitted abstracts.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 23 - 26, 2010 Virus-host: partners in pathogenicity
San Jose, Costa Rica Further information
EMBO Lecture Series
Suggested reading: Virology Books
March 14 - 19, 2010 New Antibacterial Discovery and Development
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology and Antimicrobials
March 21 - 26, 2010 Biology of Acute Respiratory Infection
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology books
March 21 - 26, 2010 HIV Vaccines
Banff, Canada Further information
Since an HIV vaccine is proving to be a particularly recalcitrant problem, a novel approach that facilitates a wider cross-fertilization of ideas would be very valuable and would be welcomed by the broader HIV vaccine research community. To that end, the major development proposed for the 2010 Keystone HIV Vaccine Symposium is to foster innovative ideas and new collaborations with immunology and vaccinology as it pertains to other viral diseases. Specifically, we propose that a new Joint Symposium of HIV Vaccines in conjunction with Viral Immunity be convened. This Joint Symposium would retain the valuable format that includes joint and separate sessions covering general and specific principles.
Suggested reading: AIDS Vaccine Development: Challenges and Opportunities
March 21 - 26, 2010 Viral Immunity
Banff, Canada Further information
The most exciting recent advances in viral immunity include the increased understanding of the role of innate immune mechanisms, interaction between innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen manipulation of host responses, and activation of immune responses and generation of immune memory. Despite these advances, basic mechanisms of anti-viral immunity are poorly characterized particularly for chronic infections. Efforts are also required to exploit recent research advances to improve vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. This meeting will include both innate and adaptive immunity and juxtapose animal models with human studies as it attempts to foster collaborative efforts between attending viral immunologists and the HIV vaccine researchers in the joint meeting. Expert talks in plenary sessions will encompass the latest in critical areas of viral immunity. Workshops and additional presentations will cover provocative and cutting-edge results from attendees. The meeting objective is to accelerate progress in understanding and manipulating anti-viral immunity to improve human health.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
April 8 - 17, 2010 Advanced optical microscopy 2010
Plymouth, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
April 11 - 16, 2010 Malaria: New Approaches to Understanding Host-Parasite Interactions
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Malaria has entered a new era—a partially effective vaccine may be licensed in the not too distant future, and the genomes of host, parasite and vector are now widely available. Major advances have been made in understanding basic parasite cell biology and fundamental immunology, using rapidly evolving molecular genetic technologies for both host and parasite. Systems biology approaches also offer a new paradigm for interrogating complex host responses to a complex pathogen. Future progress will require greater integration of these technologies to elucidate parasite cell biology, host-parasite interactions, and the specific mechanisms that confer protection in our model systems and in nature. This symposium will bring together these new fields to examine those aspects of host and Plasmodium biology important for understanding immunity and pathogenesis.
Suggested reading: Parasitology Booksy Books
April 11 - 16, 2010 Molecular Targets for Control of Vector-Borne Diseases: Bridging Lab and Field Research
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Vigorous research since the completion of the Anopheles gambiae genome sequence has established the malaria mosquito as a model organism for host-pathogen biology. However, the translation of this growing post-genomic knowledge base into new vector-targeted malaria control strategies is a distinct challenge that now leads laboratory-based molecular researchers to confront the complexity and heterogeneity of the natural malaria transmission system. Simultaneously, a body of field-based vector researchers has been developing new ways to utilize existing vector control tools such as bednets and insecticides that, if consistently implemented, can yield impressive outcomes. Lab and field based practitioners attend different meetings and rarely engage in direct dialog. This conference will examine the tension between the development of new practical malaria control tools, including genomic ones, and the advantages of more fully exploiting existing tools. It is hoped that the scientific discussion will help influence individual and programmatic research priorities.
Suggested reading: Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis
April 24 - 28, 2010 2nd ASM Conference on Mobile DNA
Montreal, Canada Further information
American Society Microbiology conference 2010.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
May 30 - June 4, 2010 Antiviral applications of RNA interference
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
June 1 - 4, 2010 Emerging themes in infection biology
Nice, France Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Bacteriology Books
June 12 - 16, 2010 Genomic approaches to interactions between plant viruses, their hosts and their vectors
Fenestrelle, Italy Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Microorganisms
June 13 - 18, 2010 Cellular and Molecular Fungal Biology
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Medical Mycology Books
June 16 - 18, 2010 Viruses and innate immunity
Dublin, Ireland Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Virology Books
July 18 - 23, 2010 Microbial Stress Response
South Hadley, MA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
August 1 - 6, 2010 Molecular Basis of Microbial One-Carbon Metabolism
Lewiston, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Molecular Microbiology
August 31 - September 10, 2010 Host-microbes interactions
Spetses, Greece Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
September 29 - October 3, 2010 Experimental approaches to evolution and ecology using yeast
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Yeast and Mycology
October 9 - 14, 2010 Cell biology meets microbiology
Krakow, Poland Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
Recommended reading:
January 12 - 17, 2010 HIV Biology and Pathogenesis
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
The Keystone Symposia Meeting on HIV Biology and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of HIV research including molecular biology. The focus will be to highlight recent advances in our understanding of HIV/AIDS ranging from the earliest events of transmission, to treatments for infected individuals, to interventions to prevent viral transmission. The goal of the meeting is to emphasize the basic mechanisms of viral replication and the interplay of the virus with the immune system leading to the development of AIDS.
Suggested reading: Lentiviruses and Macrophages HIV Vaccines
February 14 - 19, 2010 Antibiotics and Resistance: Challenges and Solutions
Santa Fe, NM, USA Further information
In the face of a growing crisis in antibiotic resistance and the emergence of new bacterial pathogens, there is a pressing clinical need for new antibiotics. Paradoxically, this call for new drugs comes at a time when investment in antibiotic development in the pharmaceutical industry is at historically low levels. Despite the promise of the genomic revolution to inform drug development and innovations in drug discovery and the fundamental biology that underpins it, modern control of infectious disease with antibiotics is perilously fragile. This meeting brings together researchers from medicine, academe and industry and from across scientific disciplines to discuss the challenges of antibiotic development in the 21st Century. What is the scope of the problem? What are possible solutions? What are the imperatives for the short and long term and is the traditional antibiotic paradigm in need of an overhaul? These questions will be the focus of the meeting that will help to define the problems and solutions in antibiotic development.
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
February 16 - 21, 2010 Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis
Taos, NM, Canada Further information
The Keystone Symposia meeting on the Cell Biology of Virus Entry, Replication and Pathogenesis emphasizes key aspects of virus infection pathways and cellular responses. A central goal is the identification of critical virus-cell crosstalk during these processes. Rather than dividing viruses into separate “categories” such as positive-sense RNA viruses and DNA viruses, the meeting highlights common aspects of virus lifecycles among different virus groups. The multi-disciplinary nature of the proposed meeting is important in bringing together investigators using structural, molecular, cell biological, immunological and epidemiological methods. This emphasis on shared themes and multiple experimental approaches will continue to be critical to future advances in virology. While there has been spectacular recent progress in our understanding of virus lifecycles, we are still very far from being able to design antiviral strategies, and unexpected novel aspects of virus cell biology are constantly being discovered. Plenary sessions will cover the most important aspects of virus interactions with cells. Day 1 will include cutting-edge structural virology studies and imaging methods to follow single virus particles during entry. Day 2 will focus on the entry mechanisms of enveloped and non-enveloped viruses and the roles of cellular proteins in virus infection. Day 3 will cover viral and cellular aspects of virus replication and cellular antiviral responses. The last day will focus on the important areas of virus assembly and pathogenesis. Late-breaking exciting developments in this fast-moving field will be incorporated by short presentations and afternoon workshop sessions drawn from the submitted abstracts.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
February 23 - 26, 2010 Virus-host: partners in pathogenicity
San Jose, Costa Rica Further information
EMBO Lecture Series
Suggested reading: Virology Books
March 14 - 19, 2010 New Antibacterial Discovery and Development
Galveston, TX, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology and Antimicrobials
March 21 - 26, 2010 Biology of Acute Respiratory Infection
Ventura, CA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Microbiology books
March 21 - 26, 2010 HIV Vaccines
Banff, Canada Further information
Since an HIV vaccine is proving to be a particularly recalcitrant problem, a novel approach that facilitates a wider cross-fertilization of ideas would be very valuable and would be welcomed by the broader HIV vaccine research community. To that end, the major development proposed for the 2010 Keystone HIV Vaccine Symposium is to foster innovative ideas and new collaborations with immunology and vaccinology as it pertains to other viral diseases. Specifically, we propose that a new Joint Symposium of HIV Vaccines in conjunction with Viral Immunity be convened. This Joint Symposium would retain the valuable format that includes joint and separate sessions covering general and specific principles.
Suggested reading: AIDS Vaccine Development: Challenges and Opportunities
March 21 - 26, 2010 Viral Immunity
Banff, Canada Further information
The most exciting recent advances in viral immunity include the increased understanding of the role of innate immune mechanisms, interaction between innate and adaptive immunity, pathogen manipulation of host responses, and activation of immune responses and generation of immune memory. Despite these advances, basic mechanisms of anti-viral immunity are poorly characterized particularly for chronic infections. Efforts are also required to exploit recent research advances to improve vaccine design and therapeutic intervention. This meeting will include both innate and adaptive immunity and juxtapose animal models with human studies as it attempts to foster collaborative efforts between attending viral immunologists and the HIV vaccine researchers in the joint meeting. Expert talks in plenary sessions will encompass the latest in critical areas of viral immunity. Workshops and additional presentations will cover provocative and cutting-edge results from attendees. The meeting objective is to accelerate progress in understanding and manipulating anti-viral immunity to improve human health.
Suggested reading: Virology Books
April 8 - 17, 2010 Advanced optical microscopy 2010
Plymouth, UK Further information
EMBO Practical Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
April 11 - 16, 2010 Malaria: New Approaches to Understanding Host-Parasite Interactions
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Malaria has entered a new era—a partially effective vaccine may be licensed in the not too distant future, and the genomes of host, parasite and vector are now widely available. Major advances have been made in understanding basic parasite cell biology and fundamental immunology, using rapidly evolving molecular genetic technologies for both host and parasite. Systems biology approaches also offer a new paradigm for interrogating complex host responses to a complex pathogen. Future progress will require greater integration of these technologies to elucidate parasite cell biology, host-parasite interactions, and the specific mechanisms that confer protection in our model systems and in nature. This symposium will bring together these new fields to examine those aspects of host and Plasmodium biology important for understanding immunity and pathogenesis.
Suggested reading: Parasitology Booksy Books
April 11 - 16, 2010 Molecular Targets for Control of Vector-Borne Diseases: Bridging Lab and Field Research
Copper Mountain, CO, USA Further information
Vigorous research since the completion of the Anopheles gambiae genome sequence has established the malaria mosquito as a model organism for host-pathogen biology. However, the translation of this growing post-genomic knowledge base into new vector-targeted malaria control strategies is a distinct challenge that now leads laboratory-based molecular researchers to confront the complexity and heterogeneity of the natural malaria transmission system. Simultaneously, a body of field-based vector researchers has been developing new ways to utilize existing vector control tools such as bednets and insecticides that, if consistently implemented, can yield impressive outcomes. Lab and field based practitioners attend different meetings and rarely engage in direct dialog. This conference will examine the tension between the development of new practical malaria control tools, including genomic ones, and the advantages of more fully exploiting existing tools. It is hoped that the scientific discussion will help influence individual and programmatic research priorities.
Suggested reading: Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis
April 24 - 28, 2010 2nd ASM Conference on Mobile DNA
Montreal, Canada Further information
American Society Microbiology conference 2010.
Suggested reading: Molecular Biology Books
May 30 - June 4, 2010 Antiviral applications of RNA interference
Sant Feliu de Guixols, Spain Further information
ESF/EMBO Symposium
Suggested reading: RNA Interference and Viruses: Current Innovations and Future Trends
June 1 - 4, 2010 Emerging themes in infection biology
Nice, France Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Bacteriology Books
June 12 - 16, 2010 Genomic approaches to interactions between plant viruses, their hosts and their vectors
Fenestrelle, Italy Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Plant Pathogenic Microorganisms
June 13 - 18, 2010 Cellular and Molecular Fungal Biology
Holderness, NH, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Medical Mycology Books
June 16 - 18, 2010 Viruses and innate immunity
Dublin, Ireland Further information
EMBO Workshop
Suggested reading: Virology Books
July 18 - 23, 2010 Microbial Stress Response
South Hadley, MA, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
August 1 - 6, 2010 Molecular Basis of Microbial One-Carbon Metabolism
Lewiston, ME, USA Further information
Gordon Research Conference
Suggested reading: Molecular Microbiology
August 31 - September 10, 2010 Host-microbes interactions
Spetses, Greece Further information
EMBO/FEBS Lecture Course
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
September 29 - October 3, 2010 Experimental approaches to evolution and ecology using yeast
Heidelberg, Germany Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Books on Yeast and Mycology
October 9 - 14, 2010 Cell biology meets microbiology
Krakow, Poland Further information
EMBO Conference Series
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
Recommended reading:
Labels: Microbiology conference update, Microbiology Conferences 2010, microbiology meeting, Microbiology Meetings 2010, Microbiology Symposia, Microbiology Symposia 2010, Microbiology Symposium
Prion Protein
A conformational transition of the cellular prion protein (PrPC) into an aberrantly folded isoform designated scrapie prion protein (PrPSc) is the hallmark of a variety of neurodegenerative disorders collectively called prion diseases. They include Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and Gerstmann-Stäussler-Scheinker syndrome in humans, scrapie in sheep, bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in cattle and chronic wasting disease (CWD) in free-ranging deer.
In contrast to the deadly properties of misfolded PrP, PrPC seems to possess a neuroprotective activity. More-over, animal models indicated that the stress-protective activity of PrPC and the neurotoxic effects of PrPSc are somehow interconnected
from The Prion Protein
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In contrast to the deadly properties of misfolded PrP, PrPC seems to possess a neuroprotective activity. More-over, animal models indicated that the stress-protective activity of PrPC and the neurotoxic effects of PrPSc are somehow interconnected
from The Prion Protein
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Labels: Bovine spongiform encephalopathy, BSE, Chronic wasting disease, Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, Gerstmann-Staussler-Scheinker syndrome, Prion, Prion disease, PRP, PRPC, PRPSc, Scrapie
Conference Update
December 16 - 18, 2009. Quantitative Imaging for Systems Biology
Oxford, UK Further information
The Oxford Centre for Integrative Systems Biology is hosting this 3 day conference. The conference will bring together researchers working on microscope design and single molecule detection with those using in vivo imaging techniques and those involved in quantitative image analysis and data storage. Over the 3 day meeting we will focus on the application of cutting edge microscopy techniques to biological imaging and on novel methods for the quantitative analysis of biological images.
June 6 - 10, 2010 14th International Conference on the Cell and Molecular Biology of Chlamydomonas
Norton, MA, USA Further information
The Chlamydomonas research community meets every two years. These meetings usually bring together approximately 200 scientists for 5 days of presentations and discussion. Newcomers are always welcome.
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
September 6 - 9, 2010 14th International Symposium on Staphylococci and Staphylococcal Infections (ISSSI)
Bath, UK Further information
The programme will cover a diverse range of subjects on staphylococcal research including disease management, pathogenesis, immune evasion, persistence, population biology, evolution and regulation. The plenary and symposium sessions will be presented by the world\'s leading experts in each of these fields.
Suggested reading: Staphylococcus: Molecular Genetics
October 6 - 9, 2010 11th annual meeting of the International Endotoxin and Innate Immunity Society
Vancouver, Canada Further information
The joint meeting of the International Endotoxin and Innate Immunity Society and the Society of Leukocyte Biology. This biannual meeting covers all aspects of endotoxin biology and innate immunity. The theme is The Three Rs of Immunity: Recognition, Response, Resolution.
Suggested reading: Microbial Toxins: Current Research and Future Trends
November 30 - December 3, 2010 VIth World Melioidosis Congress
Townsville, Queensland, Australia Further information
6th World Melioidosis Congress
Suggested reading: Burkholderia: Molecular Microbiology and Genomics
Oxford, UK Further information
The Oxford Centre for Integrative Systems Biology is hosting this 3 day conference. The conference will bring together researchers working on microscope design and single molecule detection with those using in vivo imaging techniques and those involved in quantitative image analysis and data storage. Over the 3 day meeting we will focus on the application of cutting edge microscopy techniques to biological imaging and on novel methods for the quantitative analysis of biological images.
June 6 - 10, 2010 14th International Conference on the Cell and Molecular Biology of Chlamydomonas
Norton, MA, USA Further information
The Chlamydomonas research community meets every two years. These meetings usually bring together approximately 200 scientists for 5 days of presentations and discussion. Newcomers are always welcome.
Suggested reading: Microbiology Books
September 6 - 9, 2010 14th International Symposium on Staphylococci and Staphylococcal Infections (ISSSI)
Bath, UK Further information
The programme will cover a diverse range of subjects on staphylococcal research including disease management, pathogenesis, immune evasion, persistence, population biology, evolution and regulation. The plenary and symposium sessions will be presented by the world\'s leading experts in each of these fields.
Suggested reading: Staphylococcus: Molecular Genetics
October 6 - 9, 2010 11th annual meeting of the International Endotoxin and Innate Immunity Society
Vancouver, Canada Further information
The joint meeting of the International Endotoxin and Innate Immunity Society and the Society of Leukocyte Biology. This biannual meeting covers all aspects of endotoxin biology and innate immunity. The theme is The Three Rs of Immunity: Recognition, Response, Resolution.
Suggested reading: Microbial Toxins: Current Research and Future Trends
November 30 - December 3, 2010 VIth World Melioidosis Congress
Townsville, Queensland, Australia Further information
6th World Melioidosis Congress
Suggested reading: Burkholderia: Molecular Microbiology and Genomics
Labels: conference, Conference updates, conferences, Microbiology conference update
Noncoding RNAs in EBV
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) expresses two small RNAs known as EBERs (EBV-encoded RNAs) and several microRNAs. EBERs are the most abundant viral transcript produced during latent infection by EBV in a wide variety of cell types and disease conditions. They have been demonstrated to have a variety of effects on cell growth and physiology in experiments performed in vitro and in cell culture remains to be defined.
Although the abundance of EBERs in latently infected cells implies an important function, their biological role in vivo and their molecular mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. EBV microRNAs function in regulating both EBV genes and cellular genes. Expression of EBV a href="http://www.horizonpress.com/rnai">miRNAs is dependent on a variety of factors, including the host cell type. The potential roles of EBV miRNAs in oncogenesis, immune mechanisms and gene regulation are presented.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Although the abundance of EBERs in latently infected cells implies an important function, their biological role in vivo and their molecular mechanisms of action remain poorly understood. EBV microRNAs function in regulating both EBV genes and cellular genes. Expression of EBV a href="http://www.horizonpress.com/rnai">miRNAs is dependent on a variety of factors, including the host cell type. The potential roles of EBV miRNAs in oncogenesis, immune mechanisms and gene regulation are presented.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: EBERs, EBV-encoded RNAs, microRNAs, miRNAs, Small RNAs
EBV Latent Membrane Protein 1 Oncoprotein
Latent infection membrane protein 1 (LMP1) is expressed in most malignances associated with EBV infection, has oncogene-like effects on immortalized fibroblasts, and is essential for EBV to efficiently transform the growth of resting primary B-lymphocytes into long-term autonomously proliferating lymphoblastoid cell lines.
Recombinant virus, genetic, and biochemical analyses have revealed that LMP1 is a constitutively active membrane receptor that appropriates signaling adapters of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily to alter cell gene expression through NF κB, mitogen-activated protein kinases, or interferon regulatory factors. LMP1 signaling mediated alterations in gene expression are critical for long-term cell proliferation and survival, and this is consistent with a significant role in the development of malignancies in vivo.
Thus, there is considerable effort in clarifying the molecular mechanisms of LMP1 signaling and their effects on cell growth, survival and gene expression as a critical step in identifying targets for interventions to specifically prevent or treat EBV-related cancers, particularly in the context of immune suppression.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Recombinant virus, genetic, and biochemical analyses have revealed that LMP1 is a constitutively active membrane receptor that appropriates signaling adapters of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily to alter cell gene expression through NF κB, mitogen-activated protein kinases, or interferon regulatory factors. LMP1 signaling mediated alterations in gene expression are critical for long-term cell proliferation and survival, and this is consistent with a significant role in the development of malignancies in vivo.
Thus, there is considerable effort in clarifying the molecular mechanisms of LMP1 signaling and their effects on cell growth, survival and gene expression as a critical step in identifying targets for interventions to specifically prevent or treat EBV-related cancers, particularly in the context of immune suppression.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: EBV-related cancers, LMP1, Oncogene, Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily
EBV Nuclear Antigen Family 3
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects over 90% of the world's population, and like other herpesviruses it establishes a permanent latent infection in the host. The native B-lymphocyte is the preferred target of EBV, which after differentiation into memory B-cells contains the latent reservoir of virus subsequent to the resolution of acute infection.
Several malignancies have been associated with EBV infection, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma, endemic Burkitt's lymphoma, AIDS-related lymphoma and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, among others. During the latent phase of infection and in EBV-associated tumors, a limited number of viral proteins are expressed, among them the Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 3 (EBNA3) family of proteins. Of these three proteins, two (EBNA3A and 3C) are absolutely indispensable for viral transformation of B-lymphocytes, and all appear to significantly contribute to maintaining the viability of transformed cells, suggesting an important role in oncogenesis.
These viral proteins interact with numerous cellular factors, including transcriptional regulators, cell-cycle components and cytoskeletal elements. Additionally, the EBNA3 family of proteins appears to regulate the expression of other crucial viral proteins and modulate their functions, creating an intricate system of checks and balances critical for lifelong survival of the virus in the host.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Several malignancies have been associated with EBV infection, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma, endemic Burkitt's lymphoma, AIDS-related lymphoma and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder, among others. During the latent phase of infection and in EBV-associated tumors, a limited number of viral proteins are expressed, among them the Epstein-Barr nuclear antigen 3 (EBNA3) family of proteins. Of these three proteins, two (EBNA3A and 3C) are absolutely indispensable for viral transformation of B-lymphocytes, and all appear to significantly contribute to maintaining the viability of transformed cells, suggesting an important role in oncogenesis.
These viral proteins interact with numerous cellular factors, including transcriptional regulators, cell-cycle components and cytoskeletal elements. Additionally, the EBNA3 family of proteins appears to regulate the expression of other crucial viral proteins and modulate their functions, creating an intricate system of checks and balances critical for lifelong survival of the virus in the host.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: AIDS-related lymphoma, EBNA3, Endemic Burkitts lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, Post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder
EBNA-2
Epstein-Barr virus nuclear antigen-2 (EBNA-2) plays a key role in B-cell growth transformation by initiating and maintaining the proliferation of infected B-cells upon EBV infection in vitro. EBNA-2 is one of the first viral genes expressed after virus infection.
By activating viral as well as cellular target genes EBNA-2 initiates the transcription of a cascade of primary and secondary target genes, which eventually govern the activation of the resting B-cell, cell cycle entry and proliferation of the growth transformed cells. The growth transformed B-cells exhibit a phenotype reminiscent of antigen activated B-cells.
In addition, EBNA-2's anti-apoptotic activities protect the infected B-cell. The multiple mechanisms by which EBNA-2 exerts its function are reflected by the association of EBNA-2 with several cellular and viral proteins as well as a rapidly growing spectrum of activated cellular target genes. The finding that EBNA-2 and activated Notch signalling both converge on the cellular DNA binding and repressor protein CBF1 has raised the question, to which extent the functions of both proteins overlap.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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By activating viral as well as cellular target genes EBNA-2 initiates the transcription of a cascade of primary and secondary target genes, which eventually govern the activation of the resting B-cell, cell cycle entry and proliferation of the growth transformed cells. The growth transformed B-cells exhibit a phenotype reminiscent of antigen activated B-cells.
In addition, EBNA-2's anti-apoptotic activities protect the infected B-cell. The multiple mechanisms by which EBNA-2 exerts its function are reflected by the association of EBNA-2 with several cellular and viral proteins as well as a rapidly growing spectrum of activated cellular target genes. The finding that EBNA-2 and activated Notch signalling both converge on the cellular DNA binding and repressor protein CBF1 has raised the question, to which extent the functions of both proteins overlap.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: Apoptotic activities, B-cell growth transformation, CBF1, Notch signalling
EBNA1
EBNA1 is the latent origin binding protein of Epstein-Barr virus and the only viral protein needed for the replication and stable persistence of EBV episomes. The contributions of EBNA1 include facilitating the initiation of DNA synthesis and ensuring the even distribution of the viral episomes to daughter cells during mitosis, a function that involves tethering the episomes to the cellular chromosomes. EBNA1 also activates the transcription of other viral latency genes important for cell immortalization and can autoregulate its own expression. In addition, EBNA1 has been found to alter the cellular environment in a number of ways consistent with a direct contribution to cell immortalization and malignant transformation.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Epstein-Barr Virus Leader Protein
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) efficiently infects and immortalizes human B lymphocytes through expression of at least 12 viral genes, which include the EBNA-LP protein. Recent work discusses the current state of knowledge about how EBNA-LP contributes to EBV biology.
EBNA-LP is an enigmatic protein comprised largely of 22 and 44 amino acid repeated sequences. Elucidation of EBNA-LP functions has been guided by identification of interacting cellular and viral proteins. The functions of these cofactors implicate EBNA-LP as a potential modulator of apoptosis, cell cycle processes, and transcriptional pathways. Recent studies have linked EBNA-LP with Sp100, a protein associated with promyelocytic nuclear body proteins (PML NBs), which mediate intrinsic cellular defenses against viral infections.
Alpha and beta herpesviruses encode proteins, which interact with and modulate PML NBs or PML NB-associated proteins to counteract this intrinsic cellular defense. These results link EBNA-LP with pathways that counteract or modulate the intrinsic host defense mechanisms.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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EBNA-LP is an enigmatic protein comprised largely of 22 and 44 amino acid repeated sequences. Elucidation of EBNA-LP functions has been guided by identification of interacting cellular and viral proteins. The functions of these cofactors implicate EBNA-LP as a potential modulator of apoptosis, cell cycle processes, and transcriptional pathways. Recent studies have linked EBNA-LP with Sp100, a protein associated with promyelocytic nuclear body proteins (PML NBs), which mediate intrinsic cellular defenses against viral infections.
Alpha and beta herpesviruses encode proteins, which interact with and modulate PML NBs or PML NB-associated proteins to counteract this intrinsic cellular defense. These results link EBNA-LP with pathways that counteract or modulate the intrinsic host defense mechanisms.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: Apoptosis, EBNA-LP, EBNA-LP protein, EBV Leader Protein, Herpesviruses, Sp100
Latent Epstein-Barr Virus Infections
In primary infection, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) replicates in oro-pharyngeal epithelial cells and establishes Latency III, II, and I infections in B-lymphocytes. EBV latent infection of B-lymphocytes is necessary for virus persistence, subsequent replication in epithelial cells, and release of infectious virus into saliva. EBV Latency III and II infections of B-lymphocytes, Latency II infection of oral epithelial cells, and Latency II infection of NK- or T-cell can result in malignancies, marked by uniform EBV genome presence and gene expression. Because of the marked CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell response to EBV nuclear proteins in Latency III infected B-lymphocytes, EBV associated lymphoid malignancies are most common in immune compromised people, whereas EBV associated Latency II infected anaplastic Nasopharyngeal Carcinoma is not more common in immune compromised people and is most common in otherwise normal Southestern Chinese people.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: B-lymphocytes, EBV Latency I, EBV Latency II, EBV Latency III, Latency, Latent EBV Infections
Epstein-Barr Virus
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a human gamma herpes virus that is best known for being the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis in man. A fascinating feature of this virus is its ability to persist in the host and it is estimated that more than 95% of adults are carriers of the virus. Importantly, EBV can transform latently infected primary cells from healthy individuals into cancerous ones, thereby causing important human cancers such as B-cell neoplasms (e.g. Burkitt's lymphoma and Post-transplant lymphomas), certain forms of T-cell lymphoma, and some epithelial tumours (e.g. gastric carcinomas). Understanding viral latency, what triggers viral reactivation and the mechanism of transformation of normal host cells into malignant cells are critical for the development of strategies for the prevention and control of this intriguing virus and related cancers.
from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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from Epstein-Barr Virus: Latency and Transformation
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Labels: Burkitts lymphoma, EBV, Gamma herpes virus, infectious mononucleosis, Post-transplant lymphoma
Blastocystis Mitochondrion-like Organelles
The organelles in Blastocystis that resemble mitochondria are an enigma as the organism is a strict anaerobe. Recent sequence analyses of the organelle genome and over 12,000 expressed sequence tags (ESTs) has given us many insights into the role these organelles play in the metabolism of the cell.
The genome encodes several subunits of NADH dehydrogenase (complex I) but lacks all trace of genes for cytochrome and ATPase subunits (Complexes III-V). ESTs confirm the presence of complexes I and II, and indicate that this partial electron transport chain may lead to an alternative oxidase. The ESTs also suggest that many other metabolic pathways characteristic of mitochondria are still present in the Blastocystis organelles. However, other findings show that the organelle also has characteristics in common with hydrogenosomes, as a gene encoding [FeFe] hydrogenase is present and the protein has been localised to the organelles.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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The genome encodes several subunits of NADH dehydrogenase (complex I) but lacks all trace of genes for cytochrome and ATPase subunits (Complexes III-V). ESTs confirm the presence of complexes I and II, and indicate that this partial electron transport chain may lead to an alternative oxidase. The ESTs also suggest that many other metabolic pathways characteristic of mitochondria are still present in the Blastocystis organelles. However, other findings show that the organelle also has characteristics in common with hydrogenosomes, as a gene encoding [FeFe] hydrogenase is present and the protein has been localised to the organelles.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: ATPase subunits, Blastocystis, Hydrogenosomes, Mitochondria, Mitochondrion-like Organelles, NADH dehydrogenase, Organelles
Giardia
Giardia and the other diplomonads are unique in their possession of two nuclei that are similar in appearance, DNA content, transcription, and time of replication. Trophozoites have a ploidy of four and the ploidy of cysts is eight, which in turn raises the question of how Giardia maintains homogeneity between the chromosomes of the same and opposite nuclei. Giardia has been assumed to be primitively asexual and with no means of transferring DNA between nuclei. These assumptions make it very difficult to explain the remarkably low level of allelic heterozygosity (< 0.01%) in the genome isolate, WB. However, all these assumptions are now in doubt with the identification of meiotic genes in Giardi, evidence for recombination among isolates, and the evidence for exchange of genetic material between nuclei during the process of encystation.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Allelic heterozygosity, Diplomonads, Giardia WB, Ploidy, Trophozoites
Gene Expression in Entamoeba histolytica
Our knowledge of the functions of different structural proteins and virulence factors in the cellular organization and pathogenesis of Entamoeba histolytica has significantly increased following the introduction of various molecular techniques that enable the manipulation of gene expression. Unfortunately, to date, all the attempts to integrate exogenous DNA into the parasite's genome have failed and most methods for up- and down-regulation of gene expression have been based on the transfection of stably maintained plasmids.
Down-regulation has been achieved by plasmids encoding: (i) antisense RNA, (ii) truncated or mutated genes that exert dominant-negative effects, and (iii) inverted loops that generate double stranded RNA molecules. Small interfering RNA oligonucleotides incorporated directly from the culture medium also cause the down-regulation of specific genes.
Recently, epigenetic silencing of the amoebapore gene, which encodes a toxic polypeptide that disrupts the membranes of bacteria and mammalian cells, was induced following transfections with a plasmid construct containing an upstream segment of the amoebapore gene. A number of additional genes have been silenced subsequently in a similar way. Amoebae in which the expression of virulence genes has been down-regulated have in many cases an altered phenotype that sheds light on the specific role of the genes and the cells display a significantly reduced pathogenic potential.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Down-regulation has been achieved by plasmids encoding: (i) antisense RNA, (ii) truncated or mutated genes that exert dominant-negative effects, and (iii) inverted loops that generate double stranded RNA molecules. Small interfering RNA oligonucleotides incorporated directly from the culture medium also cause the down-regulation of specific genes.
Recently, epigenetic silencing of the amoebapore gene, which encodes a toxic polypeptide that disrupts the membranes of bacteria and mammalian cells, was induced following transfections with a plasmid construct containing an upstream segment of the amoebapore gene. A number of additional genes have been silenced subsequently in a similar way. Amoebae in which the expression of virulence genes has been down-regulated have in many cases an altered phenotype that sheds light on the specific role of the genes and the cells display a significantly reduced pathogenic potential.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Amoebae, Amoebapore gene, Down-regulation of gene expression
Entamoeba histolytica Genomic Analyses
The sequencing of the Entamoeba histolytica genome, as well as the development of genome-wide techniques to allow study of gene expression, has led to many advances in our understanding of the biology of this parasite. Recent work used genomic technologies (DNA microarrays and proteomics) to study important aspects of amebic biology, including pathogenesis, host interaction, phagocytosis, stage conversion, responses to stressful stimuli, and mechanisms of gene regulation. These studies identify pathways involved in regulating major functions in this important human pathogen.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Amebic biology, DNA microarrays, Proteomics
Cytoskeleton in Giardia and Trichomonas
A recent publication discusses the Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis genome projects that have brought to our understanding of the unique cytoskeletal protein profiles of these two parasites and integrates this new analysis of protein composition with recent structural and functional studies.
Although both parasites are flagellated, the differences in both the structural and protein composition of their cytoskeletons are more numerous than their similarities. Consistent with general patterns across its genome, the cytoskeletal gene families in Trichomonas are greatly amplified in number, while the corresponding families in Giardia are - with few exceptions - represented by only one or a very few copies. While the microfilament proteome is largely complete in Trichomonas, it is virtually absent in Giardia.
Thus, when similarities between the two cytoskeletons emerge, they are all the more notable. Perhaps most striking is the fact that while the dynein and kinesin motor families are well-represented in both parasites, there is an apparent absence of myosins in both, with no clear evidence of a functional substitute or altered basis for microfilament dynamics.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
Further reading:
Although both parasites are flagellated, the differences in both the structural and protein composition of their cytoskeletons are more numerous than their similarities. Consistent with general patterns across its genome, the cytoskeletal gene families in Trichomonas are greatly amplified in number, while the corresponding families in Giardia are - with few exceptions - represented by only one or a very few copies. While the microfilament proteome is largely complete in Trichomonas, it is virtually absent in Giardia.
Thus, when similarities between the two cytoskeletons emerge, they are all the more notable. Perhaps most striking is the fact that while the dynein and kinesin motor families are well-represented in both parasites, there is an apparent absence of myosins in both, with no clear evidence of a functional substitute or altered basis for microfilament dynamics.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Cytoskeletal gene families, Cytoskeleton, Dynein, Kinesin motor family, Microfilament proteome
Actin Cytoskeleton of Entamoeba histolytica
Host tissue invasion by E. histolytica is driven by motility and phagocytosis, which are both regulated primarily by reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. The structural and signaling components of the actin cytoskeleton from available genomes of three Entamoeba species, E. histolytica, E.dispar and E. invadens, have been annotated manually and compared systematically. These protein families include the actin superfamily, actin nucleators, calponin-related actin-binding proteins (ABPs), gelsolin-related ABPs, myosins, small GTPases and their regulators, as well as phospholipid signaling regulators.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Actin, Actin nucleators, Actin superfamily, E dispar, E histolytica, E invadens, Entamoeba histolytica, motility, Phagocytosis, Small GTPases
Trichomonas vaginalis Genome
The genome of Trichomonas vaginalis, the first from a parabasalid to be sequenced, was published in 2007, the culmination of a project marked by several surprises and not a little distress. The ~160 Mb genome was found to be significantly larger than first described, presenting new challenges to the standard genome sequencing pipeline.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Parabasalid, Parabasalid genome, Trichomonas vaginalis
Giardia Genome
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Binucleated flagellates, Diplomonads, Giardia, Giardia lamblia, Spironucleus, Spironucleus salmonicida, Spironucleus vortens, Water-borne enteric disease
Entamoeba histolytica
Entamoeba histolytica is the causative agent of amoebic dysentery and liver abscess that affect millions of people annually worldwide resulting in tens of thousands deaths.
Loftus et al. published an annotation of the draft genome assembly in 2005. However, subsequent identification of assembly artifacts and the availability of additional sequence and functional data made necessary a thorough revision of its entire sequence and annotation. The genome of E. histolytica has now been re-assembled and re-annotated, incorporating significant structural and functional modifications to existing gene models.
The new 20 million basepair genome assembly contains 8,160 predicted genes; known and novel transposable elements have been mapped and characterized, functional assignments have been revised and updated, and additional information has been incorporated, including metabolic pathways, Gene Ontology assignments, curation of transporters, and generation of gene families. All information is available through GenBank and Pathema, a web resource that unifies and displays up to date genome information.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
Further reading:
Loftus et al. published an annotation of the draft genome assembly in 2005. However, subsequent identification of assembly artifacts and the availability of additional sequence and functional data made necessary a thorough revision of its entire sequence and annotation. The genome of E. histolytica has now been re-assembled and re-annotated, incorporating significant structural and functional modifications to existing gene models.
The new 20 million basepair genome assembly contains 8,160 predicted genes; known and novel transposable elements have been mapped and characterized, functional assignments have been revised and updated, and additional information has been incorporated, including metabolic pathways, Gene Ontology assignments, curation of transporters, and generation of gene families. All information is available through GenBank and Pathema, a web resource that unifies and displays up to date genome information.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Amoebic dysentery, E histolytica, Entamoeba histolytica, Liver abscess
Anaerobic protozoa book
In a forthcoming book on anaerobic protozoa, internationally acclaimed researchers critically review the most important aspects of research on anaerobic parasitic protozoa, providing the first coherent picture of their genomics and molecular biology since the publication of the genomes.
Chapters are written from a molecular and genomic perspective and contain speculative models upon which future research efforts can be based. Topics include: the genomes of Entamoeba histolytica, Trichomonas vaginalis, Giardia and other diplomonads; the cytoskeletons of Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis; genomic analyses and manipulation of gene expression in Entamoeba histolytica; nuclear and chromosomal structure and replication in Giardia; and the mitochondrion-like organelles of a fourth anaerobe, Blastocystis.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Chapters are written from a molecular and genomic perspective and contain speculative models upon which future research efforts can be based. Topics include: the genomes of Entamoeba histolytica, Trichomonas vaginalis, Giardia and other diplomonads; the cytoskeletons of Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia and Trichomonas vaginalis; genomic analyses and manipulation of gene expression in Entamoeba histolytica; nuclear and chromosomal structure and replication in Giardia; and the mitochondrion-like organelles of a fourth anaerobe, Blastocystis.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Blastocystis, Diplomonads, Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia, Giardia lamblia, Mitochondrion-like organelles, Trichomonas vaginalis
Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa
Anaerobic parasitic protozoa cause medically and economically important diseases such as dysentery, sexually transmitted infections, and gastroenteritis that affect millions of people worldwide annually. Recently the genomes of the three key anaerobic protozoa, Trichomonas, Giardia and Entamoeba, have been determined. The availability of these genomic data and the use of post-genomic analyses have provided fascinating new insights into the biology of these important parasites. They will be important for the design of novel anti-protozoan drugs and the development of effective vaccines.
from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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from Anaerobic Parasitic Protozoa: Genomics and Molecular Biology
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Labels: Anaerobic protozoa, Anti-protozoan drugs, Dysentery, Entamoeba, Gastroenteritis, Giardia, Parasitic protozoa, Trichomonas
Lentivirus Coinfections and Superinfections
The phenomenon of lentiviral superinfection, that is, infection with a second unique strain of virus after a primary viremia has already been established, is an important aspect of lentivirus biology, and is being increasingly recognized as a method for rapid emergence of new strains via the process of recombination.
Though there are both host and viral barriers to simultaneous coinfection following exposure with two unique lentiviruses, it is well established in both natural and experimental systems that infection with one strain of lentivirus does not impart resistance to superinfection. Viral kinetics and dynamics of infection are altered in coinfections relative to single infections. Superinfection may result in either diminished or enhanced virulence of the primary or secondary strain and may occur with high prevalence in individuals with repeated exposures.
Evaluation of the incidence of naturally occurring superinfections, and biological behavior of experimental superinfections, either with host-adapted or non-host-adapted strains, provides insights into potential pitfalls and additional strategies to consider during lentiviral vaccine development. Analysis of lentiviral genome recombination events as a sequelae of superinfection enhances understanding of mechanisms of lentiviral evolution and virus-host adaptations.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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Though there are both host and viral barriers to simultaneous coinfection following exposure with two unique lentiviruses, it is well established in both natural and experimental systems that infection with one strain of lentivirus does not impart resistance to superinfection. Viral kinetics and dynamics of infection are altered in coinfections relative to single infections. Superinfection may result in either diminished or enhanced virulence of the primary or secondary strain and may occur with high prevalence in individuals with repeated exposures.
Evaluation of the incidence of naturally occurring superinfections, and biological behavior of experimental superinfections, either with host-adapted or non-host-adapted strains, provides insights into potential pitfalls and additional strategies to consider during lentiviral vaccine development. Analysis of lentiviral genome recombination events as a sequelae of superinfection enhances understanding of mechanisms of lentiviral evolution and virus-host adaptations.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Bovine Lentiviruses
Infections with the bovine lentiviruses, bovine immunodeficiency virus (BIV) or Jembrana disease virus (JDV) represent the extremes of lentivirus induced disease. BIV has a broad cell tropism and causes a mild lymphoproliferative disorder with low viral titres and no reproducible disease sequelae. JDV has a more restricted cell tropism than BIV and infects Bali cattle in Indonesia, replicating to high viral titres during an acute disease period characterized by lymph node enlargement, leucopaenia and high rectal temperatures. The similarities and differences between these two genetically and antigenically closely related viruses and between other lentiviruses will be reviewed in this chapter with particular regard to their cell tropism, pathogenesis and genetic composition.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: BIV, Bovine immunodeficiency virus, JDV, Jembrana disease virus
Small Ruminant Lentiviruses
The Visna-Maedi virus (VMV) and the caprine arthritis encephalitis virus (CAEV) were considered to be specific pathogens of sheep and goats, respectively. The finding that these lentiviruses frequently cross the species barrier between sheep and goats, and vice versa, has changed our view of the epidemiology of these viruses and they are now referred to as small ruminant lentiviruses (SRLV). A brief review of the molecular epidemiology of these lentiviruses will illustrate the diffusion and intermixing of these viruses in the two target species and documented cases of double infection and recombination between VMV and CAEV will be discussed.
Monocytes-macrophages and dendritic cells are the main target cells of CAEV. Monocytes carrying the lentiviral provirus in their genome show little or no viral transcription. These latently infected cells are believed to function as "Trojan horses", capable of spreading the virus to different organs, while eluding the host immune response. The terminal maturation of monocytes to macrophages activates the expression of the transcription factors that, by interacting with the control elements in the viral LTRs, promote the production of infectious virus. The LTR sequences of different SRLV isolates are quite heterogeneous and may control the tissue-specific replication of these viruses and their virulence. SRLV replicate unrestrictedly and to high titers in differentiated macrophages in vitro, whereas in vivo virus replication is tightly controlled by mechanisms involving innate immunity and the adaptive immune system, and the intrinsic resistance of cells to retrovirus replication.
SRLV manipulate the expression of different cytokines in infected cells and modulate the cytokine response of these cells to stimulation of the various receptors involved in recognizing pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPS). The genetic background of animals influences the clinical outcome of SRLV infection which, in contrast to HIV infected humans, is mainly benign in the majority of infected animals. Most animals therefore fulfill the criteria defining long-term non-progressors. Finally, the various strategies adopted by SRLV to manipulate the aforementioned immunological and non-immunological antiviral mechanisms directly influence the efficacy of vaccination strategies as documented by the paradoxical effects induced by experimental vaccines on viral load and pathological manifestations in vaccinated and challenged animals.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: CAEV, Caprine arthritis encephalitis virus, Visna-Maedi virus, VMV
Equine Infectious Anemia Virus
Equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV) is an ungulate lentivirus related to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Much of the understanding of lentiviral infection of macrophages comes from HIV studies that have provided insights into molecular regulation of all lentiviruses. However, numerous aspects of the life cycle of each lentivirus are unique and associated with specific pathological consequences. In vivo EIAV is primarily if not exclusively a macrophage-tropic virus. As a consequence of this targeted tropism, EIAV causes an acute and sometimes fulminant disease associated with high-titered viremia with no associated immunodeficiency. Investigations have only begun to unravel the molecular mechanisms leading to cell-specific replication of EIAV.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: EIAV, Lentiviral infection
Felid Immunodeficiency Viruses
Lentiviruses are widespread pathogens of primates, ungulates and felids. While the ungulate lentiviruses induce a disease state typical of a chronic inflammatory condition, the felid and primate lentiviruses induce an immunodeficiency characterised by a progressive depletion of CD4+ T helper cells. FIV infection of the domestic cat may lead to a spectrum of diseases, ranging from a rapid, acute-onset immunodeficiency to a chronic wasting disease with concomitant neuropathology and persistent recurring opportunistic infections. Here, we examine the host and viral determinants of FIV cell tropism and pathogenicity. The virus targets activated CD4+ T cells selectively by interactions with its primary receptor, CD134 and co-receptor, CXCR4.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: CD134, CD4 T helper cells, CXCR4, FIV
Simian-human immunodeficiency virus
Simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV) was generated as a model for acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) in order to overcome the narrow host range of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1). The first-generation SHIVs were nonpathogenic but evolved to become highly pathogenic viruses. Highly pathogenic SHIVs induce a distinct disease phenotype: a massive, systemic, and irreversible depletion of CD4+ T cells occurs within weeks of infection, followed by AIDS-like clinical manifestations. During the acute phase of infection, the virus predominantly infects and destroys CD4+ T cells. As a result, macrophages become the major virus-producing cell type.
Virus isolated during the macrophage phase of infection exhibits macrophage tropism, a property not possessed by the inoculum SHIV. The V1/V2 region of the env gene was found to be responsible for the expanded cell tropism observed in the macrophage-tropic virus. The viral entry coreceptor, CXCR4, was maintained during the evolution of the virus.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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Virus isolated during the macrophage phase of infection exhibits macrophage tropism, a property not possessed by the inoculum SHIV. The V1/V2 region of the env gene was found to be responsible for the expanded cell tropism observed in the macrophage-tropic virus. The viral entry coreceptor, CXCR4, was maintained during the evolution of the virus.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: aids, CXCR4, HIV-1, Macrophage tropism, SHIV
Restrictions to Lentiviral Replication
Host organisms contain numerous defenses to protect themselves against invading pathogens like lentiviruses. These defense systems include intracellular inhibitory proteins termed "restriction factors", which have recently risen to prominence with the discovery of APOBEC3 and TRIM5 cellular proteins as key factors restricting invading retroviruses in host cells. Understanding how these and other intracellular restriction factors block retroviruses is providing new insights into barriers of retroviral replication and the cross-species transmission of lentiviruses. Moreover, these restriction factors have important ramifications for identifying new targets for antiviral therapy, developing better models of HIV-1/AIDS and selecting retroviral vectors for gene therapy. Thus, restriction factors have emerged as a dynamic, important area of lentivirus research. This chapter reviews rapid advances in understanding intracellular restriction factors targeting retroviruses after entry into host cells. These restriction factors include TRIM5α, TRIMCyp, Cyclophilin A, Fv1, APOBEC3, TRIM28, ZAP, tetherin and calcium-modulating cyclophilin ligand. Lentiviral countermeasures to circumvent these intracellular restrictions are also canvassed. Delineating the biology of these intracellular restrictions appears promising for developing novel antiviral therapies to curb lentiviruses as effectively as the naturally occurring intracellular restriction factors.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
The Macrophage and HIV
Rapid depletion of CD4+ T-lymphocytes has been associated with a switch in HIV-1 coreceptor usage from CCR5 to CXCR4 in approximately 40 to 50% of infected individuals. However, the majority of infected individuals who progress to AIDS harbour only CCR5-dependent (R5) viral strains. HIV-1 disease progression is associated with an enhanced tropism of R5 viral strains for cells of the monocyte/macrophage lineage (enhanced M-tropism). However, the underlying molecular mechanisms contributing to enhanced M-tropism by R5 HIV-1 strains, and how HIV-1 variants with enhanced M-tropism cause CD4+ T-cell depletion in vivo are unknown. This chapter examines the relationship between viral coreceptor usage, M-tropism, and pathogenicity of HIV-1. We highlight evidence supporting the hypothesis that enhanced M-tropism of R5 HIV-1 may result from adaptive viral evolution, resulting in HIV-1 variants that have increased ability to utilize relatively low levels of CD4 and CCR5 expressed on macrophages. The evidence also suggests that these late-emerging, R5 viral strains have reduced sensitivity to entry inhibitors, and increased ability to cause CD4+ T-lymphocyte loss. These variants are likely to impact HIV-1 disease progression, particularly in patients who persistently harbour only R5 viral strains.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Macrophage Biology
Macrophages possess elaborate sensors for pathogens and have evolved complex chemically mediated interactions with other components of the immune system. Macrophage precursors differentiate into multiple end-stage specialised cell types in mammals, each suited for specific roles in homeostasis and defence. Research in macrophage biology is at a particularly exciting stage with new defence pathways still in the process of discovery. At the same time, enough is known to glimpse the complete picture that will one day be available for this staggeringly complex molecular machine which is a central organiser of immune defences. Macrophages are critically involved in disease in humans and animals because of their roles both in chronic inflammatory diseases, and during infections by important pathogens, including lentiviruses. In each case, an understanding of macrophage defensive mechanisms and how they have been maladapted or thwarted in disease states provides a range of opportunities for specific therapeutic intervention.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
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from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Lentivirus Tropism and Disease
Lentiviruses are among the most intensely and extensively studied group of viruses. They are found worldwide and infect a broad array of animal species. Historically, lentiviruses have been investigated longer than any other virus group. The first viral etiology ascribed to an animal disease was a lentivirus. The diseases associated with lentiviral infections range from benign and subclinical to severely debilitating and lethal. The diverse group of viruses that compose the lentiviruses have many common and distinctive features. Among the common features is tropism for cells from the monocyte/macrophage lineage. Infection of macrophage affords this assorted group of viruses many evolutionary advantages, including a potential hiding place from the infected host's immune system.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: Infection of macrophage, Tropism
Viral infection of mononuclear phagocytes
Virus can simultaneously assemble and hide in intracellular compartments, largely free from immune attack. Interestingly, the mononuclear phagocytes are not destroyed by virus and throughout infection they still contribute to host immunity while at the same time perpetuating lentiviral dissemination. Infected mononuclear phagocytes are readily observed in lymph nodes and organs such as the lung and brain, where they produce cytotoxic mediators that contribute to the development of disease.
For human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection functional impairment of infected mononuclear phagocytes likely accelerates immune deficiency. Thus, the questions most asked are how can a cell that possesses so many intrinsic defense mechanisms harbor such viral pathogens for prolonged time periods? How can mononuclear phagocytes serve both as sentries and vehicles for disseminating infection and inducing disease? Indeed, in regards to biology, both for ontogeny and phylogeny, mononuclear phagocytes are the most primitive sensors of tissue injury and as such serve to clear debris and simultaneously protect the host's homeostatic environment.
Their roles serve the host in non-specific defense (innate immunity) and in initiating cell-specific protection (adaptive immunity). A consistent evolutionary role resides in the ability of mononuclear phagocytes to engulf, digest and destroy cell and tissue debris through phagolysosomal fusion. Interestingly, mononuclear phagocytes can affect neighboring lymphocytes and other immunocytes to perform similar functions, albeit by divergent mechanisms. Control of viral growth occurs together with the MP's notable possession of a vast repertoire of immune secretory factors that include pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, arachidonic acid and its metabolites, platelet activating factor, nitric oxide, quinolinic acid, amongst others. These serve to regulate immune defense, cell mobility, antigen presentation, immune activation, and cell differentiation. During disease such secretions are induced by infection and affect inflammatory processes that speed cell and tissue injury leading to clinical symptoms and morbidities. This, in the case of common lentiviral tissue injuries, leads to substantive lung, brain, blood, and joint diseases.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
For human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection functional impairment of infected mononuclear phagocytes likely accelerates immune deficiency. Thus, the questions most asked are how can a cell that possesses so many intrinsic defense mechanisms harbor such viral pathogens for prolonged time periods? How can mononuclear phagocytes serve both as sentries and vehicles for disseminating infection and inducing disease? Indeed, in regards to biology, both for ontogeny and phylogeny, mononuclear phagocytes are the most primitive sensors of tissue injury and as such serve to clear debris and simultaneously protect the host's homeostatic environment.
Their roles serve the host in non-specific defense (innate immunity) and in initiating cell-specific protection (adaptive immunity). A consistent evolutionary role resides in the ability of mononuclear phagocytes to engulf, digest and destroy cell and tissue debris through phagolysosomal fusion. Interestingly, mononuclear phagocytes can affect neighboring lymphocytes and other immunocytes to perform similar functions, albeit by divergent mechanisms. Control of viral growth occurs together with the MP's notable possession of a vast repertoire of immune secretory factors that include pro-inflammatory cytokines, chemokines, arachidonic acid and its metabolites, platelet activating factor, nitric oxide, quinolinic acid, amongst others. These serve to regulate immune defense, cell mobility, antigen presentation, immune activation, and cell differentiation. During disease such secretions are induced by infection and affect inflammatory processes that speed cell and tissue injury leading to clinical symptoms and morbidities. This, in the case of common lentiviral tissue injuries, leads to substantive lung, brain, blood, and joint diseases.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Lentiviruses
Lentiviruses comprise a genus of diverse viruses in the Retroviridae family which are united in their ability to infect and persist in macrophages. Infections are characterized by immune system dysfunctions following sometimes lengthy incubation periods.
The viruses in this genus include primate lentiviruses such as HIV as well as animal lentiviruses including equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). An intriguing feature of lentiviruses is their ability to hijack macrophages so that they are simultaneously involved in the dissemination and control of virus spread throughout the host, leading to disease induction and/or transmission to a new host.
Macrophage biology is at an exciting stage with a wealth of new information being generated as their role in parasitic, viral and bacterial infections as well as in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease is dissected. Despite the devastating infections that lentiviruses cause, they also have enormous potential as research tools due to their ability to integrate into the host genome and are being exploited for use as delivery vehicles in gene therapy. Understanding the lentiviral-macrophage interaction is vital for developing novel antiviral strategies and will permit their use as research tools to be fully realised.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
The viruses in this genus include primate lentiviruses such as HIV as well as animal lentiviruses including equine infectious anemia virus (EIAV). An intriguing feature of lentiviruses is their ability to hijack macrophages so that they are simultaneously involved in the dissemination and control of virus spread throughout the host, leading to disease induction and/or transmission to a new host.
Macrophage biology is at an exciting stage with a wealth of new information being generated as their role in parasitic, viral and bacterial infections as well as in chronic inflammatory and autoimmune disease is dissected. Despite the devastating infections that lentiviruses cause, they also have enormous potential as research tools due to their ability to integrate into the host genome and are being exploited for use as delivery vehicles in gene therapy. Understanding the lentiviral-macrophage interaction is vital for developing novel antiviral strategies and will permit their use as research tools to be fully realised.
from Lentiviruses and Macrophages: Molecular and Cellular Interactions
Further reading:
- Lentiviruses and Macrophages
- Retroviruses: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Pathogenesis
- Virology publications
Labels: Lentiviral-macrophage interaction, Macrophage biology
Polysaccharide book review
Chang-Chun Ling of University of Calgary, Canada writes in ChemBioChem (2009) 10: 2539-2540:
"a collection of reviews written by experts ... one of the most up-to-date and authoritative books available on topics about bacterial polysaccharides ... overall the book provides a substantial wealth of coverage ... with extensive references provided at the end of each chapter and the use of many experimental data to support scientific conclusions, I think that this book will prove to be a highly valuable resource for researchers and advanced students"
Bacterial Polysaccharides: Current Innovations and Future Trends
Publisher: Caister Academic Press
Editor: Matthias Ullrich
Publication date: 2009
ISBN: 978-1-904455-45-5
Further reading: Bacterial Polysaccharides: Current Innovations and Future Trends
"a collection of reviews written by experts ... one of the most up-to-date and authoritative books available on topics about bacterial polysaccharides ... overall the book provides a substantial wealth of coverage ... with extensive references provided at the end of each chapter and the use of many experimental data to support scientific conclusions, I think that this book will prove to be a highly valuable resource for researchers and advanced students"
Bacterial Polysaccharides: Current Innovations and Future Trends
Publisher: Caister Academic Press
Editor: Matthias Ullrich
Publication date: 2009
ISBN: 978-1-904455-45-5
Further reading: Bacterial Polysaccharides: Current Innovations and Future Trends
Labels: bacterial polysaccharides, book review, polysaccharides
Population Genetics in the Age of Metagenomics
Microbial population genetics examines the spatial and temporal patterns of genetic variation across diverse geographic scales and ecological niches. With the arrival of molecular biological techniques, the past 40 years have seen tremendous progresses in microbial population genetics. However, in recent years, the analyses of genetic materials directly from natural environments have revolutionized our approaches and understandings of the diversity, function, and inter-relationships among microorganisms in diverse natural ecological niches (Xu, 2010).
The emergence and development of this expanding new field, that of metagenomics, has been primarily driven by technical and analytical methods developed from high throughput platforms for cloning, microfluidics, DNA sequencing, robotics, high-density microarrays, 2D-gel electrophoresis, and mass spectrometry as well as associated bioinformatics softwares. Molecular tools are used for identifying the diversity and function of microorganisms in natural biological communities. Of special notes are the potential impacts of recent developments in single cell isolation, whole-genome amplification, pyrosequencing, and database warehousing on our understanding of microbial population structures in nature. These exciting developments are bringing significant opportunities as well as new challenges to the field of microbial population genetics (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Marco, D. (2010) Metagenomics: Theory, Methods and Applications. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Liu, W.-T. and Jansson, J.K. (2010) Environmental Molecular Microbiology. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
The emergence and development of this expanding new field, that of metagenomics, has been primarily driven by technical and analytical methods developed from high throughput platforms for cloning, microfluidics, DNA sequencing, robotics, high-density microarrays, 2D-gel electrophoresis, and mass spectrometry as well as associated bioinformatics softwares. Molecular tools are used for identifying the diversity and function of microorganisms in natural biological communities. Of special notes are the potential impacts of recent developments in single cell isolation, whole-genome amplification, pyrosequencing, and database warehousing on our understanding of microbial population structures in nature. These exciting developments are bringing significant opportunities as well as new challenges to the field of microbial population genetics (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Marco, D. (2010) Metagenomics: Theory, Methods and Applications. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Liu, W.-T. and Jansson, J.K. (2010) Environmental Molecular Microbiology. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: metagenomics, Microbial Population Genetics, population genetics
Population Genetics of Viral Pathogens
Many viral pathogens, especially those with an RNA genome, are characterized by their high mutation rates and large population sizes. These features are responsible for the high levels of genetic variation usually found in viral populations and for their rapid response to different selective challenges encountered during their infection and transmission processes. They are quantitatively and qualitatively so different from most other organisms that special models and concepts, such as the quasispecies model, have been developed to better describe the evolutionary dynamics of viral populations (Xu, 2010).
Population genetics theory provides an adequate frame-work for analyzing and interpreting genetic variation in viral populations, for understanding their dynamics, and to study adaptive processes occurring therein. However, not all the evolutionary changes observed are due to the action of positive selection and this is not an all-mighty agent of evolutionary change. A recently developed framework is being utilized for integrating the evolutionary and epidemic behavior of infectious organisms, known as phylodynamics, which is especially well-suited for fast evolving organisms such as viruses (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Recommended reading:
Virology publications
Population genetics theory provides an adequate frame-work for analyzing and interpreting genetic variation in viral populations, for understanding their dynamics, and to study adaptive processes occurring therein. However, not all the evolutionary changes observed are due to the action of positive selection and this is not an all-mighty agent of evolutionary change. A recently developed framework is being utilized for integrating the evolutionary and epidemic behavior of infectious organisms, known as phylodynamics, which is especially well-suited for fast evolving organisms such as viruses (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Recommended reading:
Virology publications
Labels: Phylodynamics, population genetics, Viral Pathogens
Population Genetics of Malaria
Genetic diversity, population structure, and evolutionary history of malaria parasites are among the key factors that will influence our ability to identify genes contributing to drug resistance, parasite development, and disease pathogenesis. These factors also have an impact on vaccine and drug development, parasite source tracking, as well as the formulation of other disease prevention and control measures. For example, a highly polymorphic parasite population will contain ample genetic diversity capable of generating drug resistance genotypes at an accelerated rate; while the presence of homogeneous parasite populations should aid in the development of an effective malaria vaccine. Malaria research in the post-genomic era offers many new tools for use in population genetics analyses (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Malaria, Microbial Population Genetics, population genetics
Population Genetics of Pathogenic Fungi
Common DNA-based markers are used to genotype fungi, as well as other eukaryotes. This technology is being used to elucidate the population genetics of mammalian pathogenic fungi. This exciting area of research is continually growing as the methods become more accessible and medical mycologists recognize the value of studying natural isolates of pathogenic fungi (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
San-Blas, G. and Calderone, R.A. (2008) Pathogenic Fungi: Insights in Molecular Biology. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Recommended reading:
Medical mycology
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
San-Blas, G. and Calderone, R.A. (2008) Pathogenic Fungi: Insights in Molecular Biology. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Recommended reading:
Medical mycology
Labels: Pathogenic fungi
Population Genetics of Microalgae
Algae are a highly diverse group of protists, ranging from simple, unicellular organisms to complex, multicellular entities with a range of differentiated tissues and distinct organs. They are found among diverse aquatic ecosystems and play important roles by supplying carbon and energy as well as providing habitat to other members of the biological communities. Some algae cause significant environmental and health problems. However, despite their importance, relatively little is known about this group of organisms.
A recent review Xu, 2010 summarizes the population genetic analyses of three algal groups: the dinoflagellates, the diatoms and the haptophytes. With the application of genomics information and technology, the field of algal population genetics is approaching an exciting period of development and expansion (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
A recent review Xu, 2010 summarizes the population genetic analyses of three algal groups: the dinoflagellates, the diatoms and the haptophytes. With the application of genomics information and technology, the field of algal population genetics is approaching an exciting period of development and expansion (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Algae, Microalgae
Population Genetics of Cyanobacteria
Cyanobacteria are a group of ecologically diverse photosynthetic bacteria. Because niche differentiation is ultimately the product of differences among individuals within populations, understanding the evolutionary origins of this diversity ultimately requires a population genetics perspective. Recent work has elucidated the mechanisms that generate variation in cyanobacteria, the distribution of this diversity and its potential functional importance, and has suggested a population genomics approach to address fundamental questions regarding the nature of adaptive variation and niche differentiation in Cyanobacteria. (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Herrero, A. and Flores, E. (2008) The Cyanobacteria: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Evolution. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Herrero, A. and Flores, E. (2008) The Cyanobacteria: Molecular Biology, Genomics and Evolution. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: cyanobacteria, Photosynthetic bacteria, population genetics
Population Genetics of Rhizobia
Symbiotic nitrogen-fixing Rhizobia are of global significance, both in terms of their ecological relationships and their importance as an environmentally benign source of nitrogen for crop plants. These bacteria are capable of forming mutualistic relationships with a variety of legume hosts, where they convert atmospheric nitrogen to ammonia that is used to help meet the nitrogen needs of the host plant (Xu, 2010).
The results of recent studies have revealed several important insights, including the existence of extensive diversity within, as well as significant genetic differentiation between local and regional populations. The results also provide evidence for long-distance gene flow between continental populations. Several studies have also indicated the existence of low-to-intermediate levels of recombination within rhizobial populations. Fine-scale studies of specific genomic components (e.g., symbiotic plasmids) have also shown that certain genomic elements appear to be more prone to recombination than others. The results also showed that the different loci responsible for the development of the symbiosis appear to be under different forms of selection. Because most the population studies to date have focused on strains from root nodules, surprisingly little is known on the population genetics of the more numerous non-nodulating soil rhizobia. Future efforts to characterize these populations should significantly enhance our ability to manipulate rhizobial populations in agricultural ecosystems (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
The results of recent studies have revealed several important insights, including the existence of extensive diversity within, as well as significant genetic differentiation between local and regional populations. The results also provide evidence for long-distance gene flow between continental populations. Several studies have also indicated the existence of low-to-intermediate levels of recombination within rhizobial populations. Fine-scale studies of specific genomic components (e.g., symbiotic plasmids) have also shown that certain genomic elements appear to be more prone to recombination than others. The results also showed that the different loci responsible for the development of the symbiosis appear to be under different forms of selection. Because most the population studies to date have focused on strains from root nodules, surprisingly little is known on the population genetics of the more numerous non-nodulating soil rhizobia. Future efforts to characterize these populations should significantly enhance our ability to manipulate rhizobial populations in agricultural ecosystems (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Nitrogen-fixing, Rhizobia, Rhizobial populations
Population Genetics of Human Pathogenic Bacteria
Population genetics examine variation in genes among a group of strains of a particular species. Its major theme is to look at how different environmental factors and selective pressures can affect the distribution of genes and alleles.
Yersinia pestis was employed (Xu, 2010) as an example to illustrate how the techniques are used for population genetic studies and how the achievements of these kinds of studies can be used for rapid identification and tracing the origin of pathogenic bacteria.
New emerging techniques, including high throughput sequencing technologies, will give us unprecedented opportunities to understand microevolution and pathogenesis of bacterial pathogens (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Yersinia pestis was employed (Xu, 2010) as an example to illustrate how the techniques are used for population genetic studies and how the achievements of these kinds of studies can be used for rapid identification and tracing the origin of pathogenic bacteria.
New emerging techniques, including high throughput sequencing technologies, will give us unprecedented opportunities to understand microevolution and pathogenesis of bacterial pathogens (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Microbial Population Genetics, population genetics
Horizontal Gene Transfer
Horizontal gene transfer, as a major force in shaping bacterial gene content, has gained incredible attention over the last decade. Along with the fast growing bacterial genome sequence data, there have been an increasingly large number of studies focused on horizontal gene transfer.
The studies have been gradually transformed from identifying individual genes that have been horizontally transferred to assessing the general patterns of horizontal gene transfer and evaluating the systematic consequences of massive gene transfers. The rates of gene transfers have been measured by various methods such as parsimony and maximum likelihood methods.
Different phylogenetic methods were applied to a variety of data sets to assess whether there exists a congruent and meaningful bacterial tree. Even though some consensus has been reached, many contradictions have emerged and need to be solved in future studies (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
The studies have been gradually transformed from identifying individual genes that have been horizontally transferred to assessing the general patterns of horizontal gene transfer and evaluating the systematic consequences of massive gene transfers. The rates of gene transfers have been measured by various methods such as parsimony and maximum likelihood methods.
Different phylogenetic methods were applied to a variety of data sets to assess whether there exists a congruent and meaningful bacterial tree. Even though some consensus has been reached, many contradictions have emerged and need to be solved in future studies (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Horizontal Gene Transfer in Bacteria, Phylogenetic methods
Microbial Genomics
Microbes are ubiquitous in the world in which we live. With the development of high throughput DNA sequencing technology, there has been an explosion of DNA sequence data on microbes. The major aim of future microbial genomics will be to identify the functional significances of individual gene and genomic fragments and to use the information to help improve human health and promote our society development. One current major undertaking to understand genomic information is the comparative analyses between genomes that are not only distantly related, but also closely related ones. Such comparative analyses between genomes that have diverged at different evolutionary time scales allow us to extract different types of information about biological functions and evolutionary processes (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Comparative Microbial Genomics, DNA sequencing, DNA sequencing technology
Microbial Systematics
The higher taxonomic groups within prokaryotes are presently distinguished mainly on the basis of their branching in phylogenetic trees. In most cases, no molecular, biochemical or physiological characteristics are known that are uniquely shared by species from these groups. Analyses of genome sequences are leading to discovery of novel molecular characteristics that are specific for different groups of bacteria and archaea and provide more precise means for identifying and circumscribing these groups of microbes in clear molecular terms and for understanding their evolution (Xu, 2010).
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Microbial evolution, Phylogenetic trees
Microbial population genetics
Microbial population genetics is a rapidly advancing field of investigation with relevance to many areas of science. The subject encompasses theoretical issues such as the origins and evolution of species, sex and recombination. Population genetics lays the foundations for tracking the origin and evolution of antibiotic resistance and deadly infectious pathogens and is also an essential tool in the utilization of beneficial microbes.
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
References:
Xu, J. (2010) Microbial Population Genetics. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: antibiotic resistance, Evolution of species, population genetics
Relapsing fever
Relapsing fever is caused by several species of Borrelia, all but one of which are transmitted from reservoir animals to humans by soft (argasid) ticks. The exception is B. recurrentis, which is transmitted from one human to another by the body louse and, under certain conditions, may cause large epidemics. Relapsing fever Borrelia species have a number of properties that facilitate invasion and dissemination in the mammalian host; these include neurotropism and adhesiveness for erythrocytes and platelets. But their most characteristic pathogenetic feature is multiphasic antigenic variation. Surface-exposed lipoproteins largely determine the antigenic identities of the spirochetes. Switching between genes encoding these highly polymorphic proteins is accomplished by a recombination in which the active gene at a single expression site is replaced by a copy of an archived, silent gene. The order of appearance of serotypes during infection is partially the function of the location of the archived gene and the surrounding sequences. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Argasid ticks, B. recurrentis, Body louse
Pathobiology of Lyme Disease Borrelia
Lyme disease Borrelia are host-dependent, tick-transmitted, invasive, nontoxigenic, persistent pathogens that cause disease in humans and other mammals primarily through the induction of inflammatory reactions. During transmission from the infected tick, the bacteria undergo dramatic changes in gene expression, resulting in adaptation to the mammalian environment. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
Expression of outer surface protein C (OspC) is essential during these early stages of colonization, although the mechanism by which OspC promotes spirochetal infectivity is unknown. Organisms multiply and spread locally and induce an inflammatory response that in humans results in an erythema migrans, the hallmark lesion of localized infection. The spirochetes enter the bloodstream during the primary infection and colonize multiple tissue sites, leading to the disseminated stage of infection. Motility and chemotaxis mechanisms undoubtedly play a role in this process. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
Several borrelial proteins have been implicated in adherence to host cell surface proteins and extracellular matrix components and are likely to be involved in the homing of Borrelia to histologic compartments within each tissue, penetration of blood vessels and adherence to and migration through endothelial cells and tissue strata at distant sites. Activation of plasmin on the bacterial surface and induction of host proteases are thought to facilitate dissemination and/or inflammation. Most tissue damage appears to result from host inflammatory reactions. Although the mechanisms are not entirely understood, induction of cytokine/chemokine expression by bacterial lipoproteins and the resulting recruitment and activation of lymphocytes, macrophages and granulocytes play a major role in both local histopathology and constitutional symptoms. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
Despite their relatively low densities in tissues, Borrelia cause neurologic, cardiovascular, arthritic and dermatologic manifestations during the disseminated and persistent stages of infection by mechanisms that remain largely a mystery. Immune evasion mechanisms, including the vls antigenic variation system, complement-regulator acquiring surface proteins (CRASPs), down-regulation of highly antigenic surface proteins (such as OspC) and invasion of protective niches, permit the survival of the pathogens for months to years following infection despite robust antibody and cellular responses. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Expression of outer surface protein C (OspC) is essential during these early stages of colonization, although the mechanism by which OspC promotes spirochetal infectivity is unknown. Organisms multiply and spread locally and induce an inflammatory response that in humans results in an erythema migrans, the hallmark lesion of localized infection. The spirochetes enter the bloodstream during the primary infection and colonize multiple tissue sites, leading to the disseminated stage of infection. Motility and chemotaxis mechanisms undoubtedly play a role in this process. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
Several borrelial proteins have been implicated in adherence to host cell surface proteins and extracellular matrix components and are likely to be involved in the homing of Borrelia to histologic compartments within each tissue, penetration of blood vessels and adherence to and migration through endothelial cells and tissue strata at distant sites. Activation of plasmin on the bacterial surface and induction of host proteases are thought to facilitate dissemination and/or inflammation. Most tissue damage appears to result from host inflammatory reactions. Although the mechanisms are not entirely understood, induction of cytokine/chemokine expression by bacterial lipoproteins and the resulting recruitment and activation of lymphocytes, macrophages and granulocytes play a major role in both local histopathology and constitutional symptoms. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
Despite their relatively low densities in tissues, Borrelia cause neurologic, cardiovascular, arthritic and dermatologic manifestations during the disseminated and persistent stages of infection by mechanisms that remain largely a mystery. Immune evasion mechanisms, including the vls antigenic variation system, complement-regulator acquiring surface proteins (CRASPs), down-regulation of highly antigenic surface proteins (such as OspC) and invasion of protective niches, permit the survival of the pathogens for months to years following infection despite robust antibody and cellular responses. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Borrelial proteins, Lyme disease, Outer surface protein C, Pathobiology, Tick-transmitted infections
Metabolism and Physiology of Borrelia
Energy extracted from the fermentation of a few simple sugars fuels the key biochemical pathways and metabolic systems that are the underpinning of the physiology of Borrelia and also energizes a V-type ATPase (V-ATPase). This establishes a membrane potential that drives motility and the transport of most solutes. After transport, metabolites and biochemical intermediates, such as simple sugars, fatty acids, purines and pyrimidines, peptides and metals ions, are chemically utilized and/or modified to provide an intracellular pool of compounds necessary for protein, nucleic acid, membrane and cell wall biosynthesis.
The extremely limited de novo biosynthetic capacity of Borrelia restricts members of this genus to a host-dependent lifestyle but conserves energy and reflects a reduction of the genome that is an interesting example of adaptive biology. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
The extremely limited de novo biosynthetic capacity of Borrelia restricts members of this genus to a host-dependent lifestyle but conserves energy and reflects a reduction of the genome that is an interesting example of adaptive biology. (Samuels and Radolf, 2010)
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: Metabolism of Borrelia, Physiology of Borrelia
Borrelia
The genus Borrelia, in the spirochete phylum, is not closely related to any other bacteria and has a highly unusual genome composed of a linear chromosome and multiple circular and linear plasmids that appear to be in a constant state of rearrangement, recombination, and deletion.
The determination of the genome sequence of Borrelia strains has facilitated tremendous advances in understanding this genus at the molecular and cellular level as well as the pathogenesis of Lyme disease and relapsing fever. In recent years there has been an explosion of new insights into the molecular biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology of Borrelia and its tick/vertebrate life cycle. This research is of particular importance as the incidence of Lyme borreliosis continues to increase.
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Lipps, G. (2008) Plasmids: Current Research and Future Trends. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
The determination of the genome sequence of Borrelia strains has facilitated tremendous advances in understanding this genus at the molecular and cellular level as well as the pathogenesis of Lyme disease and relapsing fever. In recent years there has been an explosion of new insights into the molecular biology, genetics, physiology, and ecology of Borrelia and its tick/vertebrate life cycle. This research is of particular importance as the incidence of Lyme borreliosis continues to increase.
References
Samuels, D.S. and Radolf, J.D. (2010) Borrelia: Molecular Biology, Host Interaction and Pathogenesis . Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Lipps, G. (2008) Plasmids: Current Research and Future Trends. Caister Academic Press, Norfolk, UK.
Labels: B. burgdorferi, borrelia, Lyme borreliosis, Spirochete phylum
Environmental book review
The following is an excerpt from a book review of Environmental Molecular Microbiology that was published recently in Curr. Issues Mol. Biol.
"a contribution to the advances of molecular techniques in environmental microbiology. More than 30 authors, representing highly recognized institutes such as the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the Center for Microbial Ecology of the Michigan State University, to name just a few, have contributed to this book ... summarizes the current stat-of-the-art molecular techniques ... will be a useful addition to the libraries of students and professionals" from Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. (2009) read more ...
"a contribution to the advances of molecular techniques in environmental microbiology. More than 30 authors, representing highly recognized institutes such as the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, the Center for Microbial Ecology of the Michigan State University, to name just a few, have contributed to this book ... summarizes the current stat-of-the-art molecular techniques ... will be a useful addition to the libraries of students and professionals" from Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. (2009) read more ...
 | Edited by: Wen-Tso Liu and Janet K. Jansson Published: 2010 ISBN: 978-1-904455-52-3 Price: GB £159 or US $310 The current state-of-the-art of environmental microbiology with an emphasis on molecular biology and genomics. A range of technologies and their applications in environmental microbiology. The book focuses on the microbial diversity and phylogeny of microorganisms in the environment and describes the molecular toolbox currently available for the study of the composition and diversity of microbial communities and their functions. Also covers the application of these approaches in various environments including soil, marine water, plants, humans and wastewater treatment. read more ... |
Labels: Environmental, environmental microbiology
Polysaccharide book review
The following is an excerpt from a book review of Bacterial Polysaccharides: Current Innovations and Future Trends that was published recently by Doodys
"The authors are all accomplished scientists ... One of the most interesting sections is on the application of exopolysaccharides, which are essential in food production and the production of biofilms ... This comprehensive set of reviews shows the variety of ways in which bacteria use polysaccharides to survive and function in a variety of environments." from Doodys (2009) read more ...
"The authors are all accomplished scientists ... One of the most interesting sections is on the application of exopolysaccharides, which are essential in food production and the production of biofilms ... This comprehensive set of reviews shows the variety of ways in which bacteria use polysaccharides to survive and function in a variety of environments." from Doodys (2009) read more ...
 | Edited by: Matthias Ullrich Published: 2009 ISBN: 978-1-904455-45-5 Price: GB £150 or US $310 In this timely book a cohort of experienced and authoritative experts reviews the most important innovations in research on and biotechnological applications of bacterial polysaccharides. The book takes an interdisciplinary view that examines this fascinating subject area in detail from molecular biology, genome-, transcriptome- and proteome-wide perspectives, and looks at the ecological aspects and systems biology approaches. Hence the book provides a sound basis for future research directions including high efficiency applications of bacterial polysaccharides in medicine, the food industry, and renewable energy production. read more ... |
Labels: Exopolysaccharide