2008 CSHL Germ Cells Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5R13HD058377-02 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: CHHD

Abstract: The germ line is the tissue specialized for generation of gametes; it includes oocytes and sperm in addition to immature germ cells such as germline stem cells. The somatic tissues of the gonad are intimately linked with the correct development and health of the germ line. The germline tissue is of tremendous practical and scholarly significance. It may well be the ultimate source of stem cells for tissue replacement in diseased or injured individuals, and it impacts issues of both contraception and fertility. Therefore, germline biology is crucial for both medicine and agriculture. Major intellectual and technical advances have spurred new and exciting findings in germ cell research. This impressive progress derives from a range of studies in both vertebrates and invertebrates. It is therefore critical that researchers from diverse technical and academic arenas be brought together to share their insights and discoveries. This proposal seeks support for the sixth, seventh, and eighth of a biennial series of meetings held at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory that has emerged as the premiere meeting for this field. The 2008 Germ Cells meeting will be held October 1-5, 2008 at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and subsequent meetings will be held in the fall of 2010 and 2012. This meeting series is intended to provide a public forum for discussion of all aspects of germ cell research, from specification of primordial germ cells in the early embryo to the function of gametes in adults. The meeting will embrace investigations of germ cells in diverse organisms, including model organisms and humans. We expect to attract 250-300 participants from around the world. There are no competing meetings of similar scope in this important research area. Eight broad topics have been chosen for platform presentations Themes in Germ Cell Biology, Germ Line and Reprogramming, Germ Cell Patterning and Specification, Germ Cell Formation In Vitro, Germ Line Stem Cells, Epigenetic Regulation, Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Germ Cell Development, and Germline Programs. Each session will be organized and co-chaired by two experts in the field. Speakers generally will include the chairs plus one or two additional invited speakers for each session; the remainder will be selected from submitted s. We will encourage platform presentations from young scientists. We will also ensure time for interactions between scientists, particularly during meals and in poster sessions. Project Narrative Animals and plants are composed of two types of cells the ´mortal´ somatic cells, which form the body of the organism, and the ´immortal´ germ cells, which produce the next generation. During development, precursor or primordial germ cells are created in the embryo, eventually to become mature germ cells - sperm or eggs. This international conference will cover the latest research in germ cell biology. A better understanding of these processes will help to tackle infertility in human beings and certain kinds of developmental defects in children, as well as improved plant and animal breeding for agriculture and livestock management

Project start date: 2008-07-01

Project end date: 2013-06-30

Sponsored Links Excellgen http://Excellgen.com

	Protein expression & purification: E. Coli, insect and mammalian cells Fast turn around, 3 mg of >95% purity functional protein. No outsourcing to China or India. $2500, $1800
	GeneExpresso DNA Transfection Reagent Low Cytotoxicity, Higher Transfection Efficiency than Lipofectamine 2000. $188, $138
	Functional Recombinant Proteins by in vitro Protein Synthesis, 3 days, 95% Purity Full-length, high quality protein, high yield, high throughput, any genes (toxic, low GC content), membrane proteins, isotopic labelling. $598, $398

CSHL Conference On Retroviruses

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 1R13AI081443-01 from National Institute Of Allergy And Infectious Diseases IRG: ZAI1

Abstract: This proposal seeks support for the thirty-fourth in an annual series of meetings on "Retroviruses" to be held at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory that has emerged as the premiere conference for this field. The proposed meeting will assemble leaders in the field, junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows and graduate students to discuss new, cutting-edge developments in the field of retroviral biology. The meeting series is focused on the viruses rather than their host or the particular disease they cause. The large majority of the work to be presented will be unpublished and subject to immediate comment and discussion by the audience. The 2009 meeting will be structured in a manner that parallels the biology of the viruses; beginning with the entry phase of the replication cycle, proceeding with post-entry events, assembly and release, integration, reverse transcription, pathogenesis/host factors, RNA-related events (transcription, processing, export, and packaging) and finishing with antivirals. Each session will be chaired by two leading scientists in the field selected from amongst the registered attendees. Oral presentations will be selected by the organizers and session chairs in consultation with the organizers. Selected speakers will include graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and junior faculty. Two special lectures will be presented to provide essential background critical to stimulating discussion between scientists working on related but distinct areas. There will also be three poster sessions where a majority of participants can present their work. The meeting will be of moderate size, and we expect 400-450 retrovirologists in attendance

Project start date: 2009-04-01

Project end date: 2010-03-31

2010 COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY CONFERENCE ON SYSTEMS BIOLOGY: GLOBAL REGULATI

David J Stewart, Executive Director, Meetings And Courses
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, P.o. Box 100, Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13CA150295-01 from National Cancer Institute

Abstract: This proposal seeks NIH funding to support the seventh in a series of scientific meetings on systems biology approaches to understanding gene regulation in eukaryotes. The proposed 2010 meeting will focus on five key aspects of gene regulation-cis-regulatory logic, transcriptional regulatory networks, nucleosomes and epigenetics, post-transcriptional regulation, and variation and evolution of regulatory networks. In addition, a session will be devoted to emerging technologies for analysis of gene regulation. The 2012 and 2014 meetings will follow a similar format and will include topics highly relevant to the current research at the time of the meeting. How cells control gene expression is a fundamental problem in biology. Ever since the discovery of the genes and the double strand helix structure of the DNA, there have been continuous investigations into this problem. Many great discoveries have been made, including the nuclear machineries that make transcripts as well as the DNA sequences that serve to control gene expression. Despite these efforts, our knowledge of the molecular mechanisms of gene regulation remains sketchy. For example, the transcriptional regulatory sequences and the regulatory proteins for most genes in the human genome are still poorly defined, despite the availability of the complete genome sequences. Now, with the amount of genome sequence information for various organisms rapidly growing, the problem has become ever more pressing. Traditionally, investigators have studied gene regulation by analyzing the DNA-binding preferences of specific transcription factors and/or the cis-regulatory elements that control the expression patterns of single genes. These studies have tentatively identified DNA sequence motifs for around one hundred transcription factors, and have led to the idea that transcriptional regulation at the genome level involves a complex interplay between modular DNA sequence elements such as enhancers, silencers, insulators, and basal promoter elements. The last several years have seen rapid advances in the development of new genomics approaches to analysis of each step of the gene expression. Many of these approaches involve a computational component in their design or interpretation. Other strategies have evolved from the availability of several complete genomic sequences and the prospects of many more to come. These include analyses of sequence conservation among closely related species to detect "phylogenetic footprints" in non-coding regions and the use of genomic microarrays and next-generation sequencing technologies to study DNA-protein and RNA-protein interactions. The results from these new approaches have provided unprecedented details on the gene regulatory processes in prokaryotic as well as eukaryotic cells. It is clear that effective collaborations between experimental and computational biologists will be required to come to grips with the complex problem of gene regulation. Thus we propose to conduct a meeting to permit a free cross-disciplinary exchange of existing ideas and expertise. It is hoped that this meeting will provide a mechanism for the establishment of new collaborations, and a forum for discussing new experimental and computational approaches. The meeting will be held at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory on March 23-27, 2010. Twenty-two speakers of international renown have been invited to give oral presentations, and approximately forty-five others will be selected from submitted s from applicants to the meeting. With the exception of the keynote address, oral presentations will be 15´ in length with 5´ for questions and discussions. Poster sessions will be included to encourage meaningful participation by the non-speaking attendees. In addition, we will hold pre-meeting workshops which will familiarize molecular biologists and bioinformaticians with the key concepts, terminology and acronyms needed to understand each others´ disciplines. We expect attendance of approximately 250-300 scientists at the meeting. We particularly encourage female scientists and junior investigators to participate - one of the two keynote speakers, 25% of the remaining invited speakers, and two of the four meeting organizers are women, and the majority of the participants in previous years have been students, postdocs or investigators in their early independent career. Ever since the discovery of genes and the double strand helix structure of the DNA, a central question has concerned how these genes are switched on and off in the cell. Decades of research have contributed to a robust understanding of the basic mechanisms of gene expression, and in recent years efforts have turned towards how sets of genes are turned on or off together. With the outpouring of enormous amounts of biological information about the relation between gene expression and genome architecture (DNA sequence, DNA structure and modification, chromatin structure and modification etc.), a variety of different scientific disciplines have become necessary. Biologists and computer scientists are using these approaches to shed light on the principles underlying the orchestration of sets of genes in normal cellular states and how global regulation can become derailed in disease states such as cancer. This biennial international conference (2010, 2012 and 2014) will provide a forum for these scientists to share their latest discoveries and will bring together the leading experts in the field

Keywords: Address; Architecture; Biological; Biology; Cancers; Cells; Chromatin Structure; Collaborations; Complex; Computers; DNA Binding; DNA Binding Interaction; DNA Sequence; DNA Structure; Development; Discipline; Disease; Disorder; Educational workshop; Elements; Emergent Technologies; Emerging Technologies; Engineering / Architecture; Enhancers; Epigenetic; Epigenetic Change; Epigenetic Mechanism; Epigenetic Process; Eukaryota; Eukaryote; Eukaryotic Cell; Evolution; Female; Functional RNA; Funding; Gene Action Regulation; Gene Expression; Gene Expression Regulation; Gene Regulation; Gene Regulation Process; Genes; Genes, Regulator; Genes, Switch; Genome; Genome, Human; Genomics; Grips; Human Genome; International; Investigation; Investigators; Knowledge; Laboratories; Length; Light; Logic; Malignant Neoplasms; Malignant Tumor; Modification; Molecular; NIH; National Institutes of Health; National Institutes of Health (U.S.); Non-Coding; Non-Coding RNA; Nuclear; Nucleosomes; Oral; Organism; Participant; Pattern; Photoradiation; Phylogenetic Analysis; Phylogenetics; Post-Transcriptional Control; Post-Transcriptional Regulation; Post-Transcriptional Regulation Process; Posters; Posters [Publication Type]; Process; Promoter; Promoters (Genetics); Promotor; Promotor (Genetics); Proteins; RNA-Protein Interaction; Regulation; Regulator Genes; Regulatory Element; Regulatory Protein; RegulatoryElement; Research; Research Personnel; Researchers; SEQ-AN; Scientist; Sequence Analyses; Sequence Analysis; Series; Students; Switch Genes; Systems Biology; Technology; Terminology; Time; Transcript; Transcription Regulation; Transcriptional Control; Transcriptional Regulation; Transcriptional Regulatory Elements; United States National Institutes of Health; Variant; Variation; Woman; Workshop; ing; acronyms; career; conference; design; designing; disease/disorder; eukaryotida; gene discovery; gene product; genetic regulatory protein; genome sequencing; grasp; living system; malignancy; meetings; neoplasm/cancer; new approaches; next generation; novel approaches; novel strategies; novel strategy; posters; preference; regulatory gene; regulatory gene product; symposium; trans acting element; transcription factor

Relevance: SYSTEMS BIOLOGY: GLOBAL REGULATION OF GENE EXPRESSION CONFERENCE Ever since the discovery of genes and the double strand helix structure of the DNA, a central question has concerned how these genes are switched on and off in the cell. Decades of research have contributed to a robust understanding of the basic mechanisms of gene expression, and in recent years efforts have turned towards how sets of genes are turned on or off together. With the outpouring of enormous amounts of biological information about the relation between gene expression and genome architecture (DNA sequence, DNA structure and modification, chromatin structure and modification etc.), a variety of different scientific disciplines have become necessary. Biologists and computer scientists are using these approaches to shed light on the principles underlying the orchestration of sets of genes in normal cellular states and how global regulation can become derailed in disease states such as cancer. This biennial international conference (2010, 2012 and 2014) will provide a forum for these scientists to share their latest discoveries and will bring together the leading experts in the field

Project start date: 2010-03-01

Project end date: 2015-02-28

Budget start date: 1-MAR-2010

Budget end date: 28-FEB-2011

PFA/PA: PA-08-149

1R13CA150295-01 (2010): $5000

CSHL Conference On Pharmacogenomics

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
p.o. Box 100
cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 5R13GM072426-04 from National Institute Of General Medical Sciences IRG: ZGM1

Abstract: This proposal is a request for partial financial support for a conference on PHARMACOGENOMICS to be held November 18-21, 2004 at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. This represents the second in a series of annual conferences on this topic, following the success of the first Joint Cold Spring Harbor/Wellcome Trust conference held in late September 2003 at the Wellcome Trust Genome Campus in Hinxton, United Kingdom, with plans for the meeting to be held alternately between these two locations on an annual basis. This conference will focus on the opportunities presented by the growing contribution of emerging genomic information and technologies to interdisciplinary approaches in the study of variable responses of humans to drugs and toxic agents, and how research may benefit the individual. The meeting will provide an in-depth focus on diverse areas including the biochemistry and physiology of drug action, uptake and metabolism, and how this is affected by genetics; the opportunities for discovery and design of new therapeutic agents; personalizing medicine; understanding and managing adverse drug reactions; the impact of academic and commercial initiatives; ethical, legal, regulatory and social consequences of genetics applied to medicines. The conference will bring together senior and junior investigators, postdoctoral and postgraduate researchers, medical, regulatory and ethical experts in a range of disciplines to share existing research and experience, and to explore the potential of working together in new international and interdisciplinary research areas for the benefit of individual patients. Co-chairs and a limited number of invited speakers will provide critical focus for the conference, while the remainder of the talks will be selected from the s on the basis of scientific merit and relevance. This balance of talks allows the conference to feature presentations by leading scientists, to be responsive to exciting new developments, to encourage diverse participation and to recognize new investigators. Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and the meeting organizers will make particular efforts to encourage attendance and participation by women and minority scientists. The subsequent meetings (2006 and 2008) will follow a similar format and will include topics highly relevant to the current research at the time of the meeting

Keywords: meeting /conference /symposium, pharmacogenetics biochemistry, interdisciplinary collaboration, pharmacokinetics travel

Project start date: 2004-08-01

Project end date: 2009-07-31

5R13GM072426-04 (2007): $1

3R13GM072426-03S1 (2006): $20000

5R13GM072426-03 (2006): $19821

5R13GM072426-02 (2005): $1

1R13GM072426-01 (2004): $18683

5R13GM072426-05 (2008): $21029

CSHL Course: Making And Using DNA Microarrays

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 5T15CA086855-08 from National Cancer Institute IRG: NCI

Abstract: The sequencing of an ever increasing number of eukaryotic genomes of model and non-model organisms, including the recent completion of the first human genome, is providing a rapidly expanding pipeline of probable genes, many of which have as yet only a putative biological function ascribed to them on the basis of sequence similarity with known genes. Even where the biological function is known, it is becoming clear that the genome holds an extraordinary amount of as yet ill-understood regulatory information as to the temporal and spatial expression of these genes to provide for the exquisite cellular and tissue architectures common while unique to all organisms. This is surely an exhilarating reminder that much of the natural world remains to be explored at the molecular level. DNA microarrays provide a natural vehicle for this exploration. Comprehensive genome-wide surveys of gene expression patterns or function are now possible in a large number of organisms including humans, often at the level of individual cell type or tissue. The results can be viewed as maps that reflect the order and logic of the genetic program, rather than the physical order of genes on chromosomes. Increasingly, a temporal component is being added to many microarray studies to provide a dynamic view of the world within the cell. Furthermore, the molecular pathology of diseases such as cancer and bacterial or viral infection is now open to analysis by DNA microarray analysis and complementary technologies. Research using DNA microarrays and other genome-scale technologies should also help to rapidly accelerate our knowledge of gene function and molecular biology between the model organisms and other species. In this eight-day laboratory and lecture course, students will learn how to troubleshoot the array-making equipment, prepare DNA microarrays from a variety of sources, perform hybridization experiments using the prepared arrays, and learn in detail how to analyze and present data arising from these experiments. It should be emphasized that more and more emphasis will be placed on the data handling and analysis aspects of this field as the technology matures. The goal of the course is to train students so that they can return to their own laboratories and immediately apply this powerful technology in their own research.

Project start date: 1999-09-30

Project end date: 2007-04-30

5T15CA086855-08 (2006): $57421

5T15CA086855-07 (2005): $57072

2T15CA086855-06 (2004): $55635

CSHL Conference On Physiological Geonomics & Rat Models

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13RR018831-01 from National Center For Research Resources IRG: RIRG

Abstract: The rat has long been a major model system for biomedical research. Since the rat genome project was initiated in 1996, there has been an explosion in the number of genomics reagents (10,000 genetic markers, multiple genetic maps, radiation hybrids and their associated maps, >250,000 ESTs), genomic databases, physiological databases, an animal repository, and most recently, the availability of the draft genomic sequence. These reagents, tools and databases have been developed by international teams, but have been largely funded by the combined efforts of the majority of the NIH Institutes, with NHLBI being the leading institute in terms of funding and direction. After extensive discussion with members of the community and with staff at Cold Spring Harbor, the first "rat meeting" was held there in December 1999. The 1999 meeting on "Physiological Genomics and Rat Models" was successful in part because this represented the first rat meeting not dominated by a specific disease group, and helped to initiate the beginnings of the "rat community" of laboratories and investigators interested in applying this model system to their work. The meeting was held again in December 2001, and is planned to be held every two years at Cold Spring Harbor for at least the next five years, with a revised working title of "Rat Genomics and Models". This grant is therefore seeking support to help offset the costs of this important meeting for the next three meetings (2003, 2005, 2007). This support will help maintain the continued quality of the meeting by enabling more speakers to be invited, as well as junior and minority scientists to be supported; thereby allowing the organizers more flexibility in bringing new investigators into this growing field.

Keywords: biological model, functional /structural genomics, laboratory rat, meeting /conference /symposium, model design /development, science education, travel

Project start date: 2003-09-30

Project end date: 2006-09-29

1R13RR018831-01 (2003): $19990

CSHL Course On Proteomics

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 5T15CA098595-03 from National Cancer Institute IRG: NCI

Abstract: The proposed Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Course on Proteomics is to be held November 5-18, 2002, 2003 and 2004. This intensive laboratory and lecture course will focus on two major themes in proteomics. In the profiling section of the course, students will learn methodologies of protein preparation from diverse samples, sample analysis by 2-D gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry, and the application of bioinformatics tools to identify proteins and assess their relative abundance. In the functional proteomics section of the course, students will learn the use of recombinational cloning to move many genes simultaneously to different expression vectors, how to apply robotics to high-throughput methods, and how to perform high-throughput expression, purification and characterization of proteins. The overall aim of the course is to provide each student with the fund of knowledge and hands-on experience necessary to be able to perform and analyze proteomics experiments, and to learn to identify new opportunities in applying proteomics approaches to his/her own research.

Project start date: 2003-07-01

Project end date: 2006-06-30

5T15CA098595-03 (2005): $68483

5T15CA098595-02 (2004): $66792

1T15CA098595-01 (2003): $65150

5T15CA098595-06 (2008): $76096

5T15CA098595-05 (2007): $74192

2T15CA098595-04 (2006): $72343

CSHL Conference On Phosphorylation, Signaling And Disease

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13CA126443-01 from National Cancer Institute IRG: ZCA1

Abstract: The proposed 2007 meeting on the Phosphorylation, Signaling and Disease will bring together about 250-300 scientists from the international community working on different aspects of protein phosphorylation and signal transduction. The meeting will provide an intense, in-depth forum for presenting new findings and formulating new ideas in different areas of molecular research in which rapid progress is being made. 2007 Sessions will include (1) Receptor-Proximal Signaling; (2) Physiology and Disease; (3) Cancer; (4) Metabolic and Stress Signaling; (5) Model Systems; (6) Signaling Pathways in Survival and Proliferation; and (7) Downstream Signaling. It is noteworthy that many kinases and phosphatases have been implicated in the etiology of cancer and other diseases, and therefore represent potential targets in the development of novel therapeutics. The meeting will feature anchoring talks by leading scientists working in these areas who will chair the individual sessions. One of the key strengths of the proposed meeting is that because the large majority of talks are selected from the openly submitted s three months prior to the meeting, ample opportunity is provided for junior scientists to present their results, and also for the presentation of important, late-breaking findings. The 2007 meeting is intended to provide a format for the exchange of ideas and information, to discuss the latest research findings and technical advances, and to facilitate interaction amongst groups active in diverse systems.

Keywords: meeting /conference /symposium, neoplasm /cancer, phosphorylation, ing, community, lead, model, physiology, protein, receptor, stress

Project start date: 2007-05-04

Project end date: 2008-04-30

1R13CA126443-01 (2007): $4000

Neurobiology Of Drosophila Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13NS060548-01 from National Institute Of Neurological Disorders And Stroke IRG: ZNS1

Abstract: The planned conference on the "Neurobiology of Drosophila" will convene a group of junior and senior scientists to discuss the latest advances in neurobiology research that are being made in the highly successful model system of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster. This proposal seeks support for the 2007 conference, which is the 12th biennial international meeting in this series. This meeting focuses on advances made using the combined power of genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, electrophysiology, imaging, and behavioral analysis to address fundamental issues in neurobiology. The topics covered will range from molecular biology to complex behavior and include neuronal and glial fate, neural circuits and function, cell biology and pathology, sensory systems, behavior, synaptic transmission, process formation, and technology development. By vote of the previous participants, the meeting will remain of moderate size (430 participants) and will have no parallel sessions so as to facilitate discussion, exchange of ideas and techniques, and to promote new collaborations in this rapidly evolving field. All applicants will be encouraged to submit an and the majority of participants will present a talk or poster. Speakers will be chosen by session leaders and the meeting organizers from the most timely and interesting s submitted a few months in advance of the conference, ensuring that late-breaking science is covered in all of the talks. In the event that the conference is oversubscribed, participants will be chosen to include at least one representative from each participating laboratory. This conference has an excellent track record for highlighting the work of younger investigators and women. To encourage participation by junior investigators, a special lecture is presented by a graduate student who has written the best Ph.D. thesis since the previous meeting (Elkins lecture). The subsequent meetings (2009 and 2011) will follow a similar format and will include topics that are highly relevant at the time of the meeting. This Neurobiology of Drosophila conference focuses on advances made using the combined power of genetics, molecular biology, biochemistry, cell biology, electrophysiology, imaging, and behavioral analysis to address fundamental issues in neurobiology using the Model Organism Drosophila Melanogaster. The topics covered will range from molecular biology to complex behavior and include neuronal and glial fate, neural circuits and function, cell biology and pathology, sensory systems, behavior, synaptic transmission, process formation, and technology development. By vote of the previous participants, the meeting will remain of moderate size (430 participants) and will have no parallel sessions so as to facilitate discussion, exchange of ideas and techniques, and to promote new collaborations in this rapidly evolving field. All applicants will be encouraged to submit an and the majority of participants will present a talk or poster. Speakers will be chosen by session leaders and the meeting organizers from the most timely and interesting s submitted a few months in advance of the conference, ensuring that late-breaking science is covered in all of the talks.

Keywords: Drosophilidae, meeting /conference /symposium, neurobiology, ing, behavior, biochemistry, cell biology, electrophysiology, model, molecular biology, molecular genetics, motivation, neural transmission, organism, pathology, technology /technique development

Project start date: 2007-07-01

Project end date: 2008-06-30

1R13NS060548-01 (2007): $10000

CSHL Conference On Mouse Molecular Genetics: Development &; Disease

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
p.o. Box 100
cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13HD059260-01 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: CHHD

Abstract: The mouse is undoubtedly the premiere genetic system for a variety of mammalian studies. Significant advances have been made in a number of diverse fields using the mouse as a model system, in particular, in developmental biology, immunology, hematology, neurobiology, and oncology. Over the last two decades, there has been a dramatic increase in experimental studies in the mouse, largely as a result of striking technical and conceptual developments, culminating in the 2007 Nobel prize in physiology or medicine being awarded to three mouse geneticists "for their discoveries of principles for introducing specific gene modifications in mice by the use of embryonic stem cells". This conference application seeks support for the twenty-first of an annual series of meetings that has emerged as the premiere meeting for this field. The meeting series alternates between Cold Spring Harbor and a European venue, with the 2008 meeting to be held at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory. The proposed meeting on "Mouse Genetics & Genomics Development & Disease" will assemble leaders in the field, junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students to discuss the latest research and to share information about new cutting-edge developments in the field. Topics to be discussed for the 2008 meeting will include Disease Models; Neurobiology; Germ Cells and Stem Cells; Epigenetics; Patterning; Organogenesis; Genetics; and Genomics. Given the diverse approaches currently employed in this field, communication among workers is essential to advance research and understanding of fundamental processes in mammalian development, and how these processes are disrupted in a variety of diseases. Oral presentations will be selected by the session chairs in consultation with the organizers. Each session will be chaired by two leading scientists in the field. Selected speakers will include graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and junior faculty. The meeting will commence with a special lecture in honor of the late Rosa Beddington. There will also be two or three poster sessions where a majority of participants can present their work. The meeting will be of moderate size, and we expect 300-350 mouse geneticists and genomicists are expected in attendance

Project start date: 2008-09-01

Project end date: 2009-08-31

1R13HD059260-01 (2008): $6000

2008 CSHL Germ Cells Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
p.o. Box 100
cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13HD058377-01 from Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development IRG: CHHD

Abstract: The germ line is the tissue specialized for generation of gametes; it includes oocytes and sperm in addition to immature germ cells such as germline stem cells. The somatic tissues of the gonad are intimately linked with the correct development and health of the germ line. The germline tissue is of tremendous practical and scholarly significance. It may well be the ultimate source of stem cells for tissue replacement in diseased or injured individuals, and it impacts issues of both contraception and fertility. Therefore, germline biology is crucial for both medicine and agriculture. Major intellectual and technical advances have spurred new and exciting findings in germ cell research. This impressive progress derives from a range of studies in both vertebrates and invertebrates. It is therefore critical that researchers from diverse technical and academic arenas be brought together to share their insights and discoveries. This proposal seeks support for the sixth, seventh, and eighth of a biennial series of meetings held at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory that has emerged as the premiere meeting for this field. The 2008 Germ Cells meeting will be held October 1-5, 2008 at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, and subsequent meetings will be held in the fall of 2010 and 2012. This meeting series is intended to provide a public forum for discussion of all aspects of germ cell research, from specification of primordial germ cells in the early embryo to the function of gametes in adults. The meeting will embrace investigations of germ cells in diverse organisms, including model organisms and humans. We expect to attract 250-300 participants from around the world. There are no competing meetings of similar scope in this important research area. Eight broad topics have been chosen for platform presentations Themes in Germ Cell Biology, Germ Line and Reprogramming, Germ Cell Patterning and Specification, Germ Cell Formation In Vitro, Germ Line Stem Cells, Epigenetic Regulation, Post-Transcriptional Regulation of Germ Cell Development, and Germline Programs. Each session will be organized and co-chaired by two experts in the field. Speakers generally will include the chairs plus one or two additional invited speakers for each session; the remainder will be selected from submitted s. We will encourage platform presentations from young scientists. We will also ensure time for interactions between scientists, particularly during meals and in poster sessions. Project Narrative Animals and plants are composed of two types of cells the ´mortal´ somatic cells, which form the body of the organism, and the ´immortal´ germ cells, which produce the next generation. During development, precursor or primordial germ cells are created in the embryo, eventually to become mature germ cells - sperm or eggs. This international conference will cover the latest research in germ cell biology. A better understanding of these processes will help to tackle infertility in human beings and certain kinds of developmental defects in children, as well as improved plant and animal breeding for agriculture and livestock management

Project start date: 2008-07-01

Project end date: 2013-06-30

1R13HD058377-01 (2008): $6000

Cold Spring Harbor 72nd Symposiumon Quantitative Biology: Clocks And Rhythms

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13NS058217-01 from National Institute Of Neurological Disorders And Stroke IRG: ZNS1

Abstract: The Cold Spring Harbor Symposia on Quantitative Biology are held yearly at the beginning of June at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York. They bring together approximately 300-400 scientists from all over the world to present and evaluate new data and ideas in rapidly moving areas of biological research. Each year, a topic is chosen that seems to be at a stage where general and intensive scrutiny and review is needed. The Symposia always seek to bring research workers from the U.S., as well as from broad, so as to ensure the wide scope and depth of the program and to take advantage of their specific contributions. They also seek to provide outstanding younger scientists, both graduate students and post-doctoral fellows, with an opportunity to participate and communicate with more senior scientists. The Symposia also seek to have participation from women and minority scientists. The Symposia bring together scientists who use a variety of approaches, e.g., genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and structural studies, to analyze problems in the area under discussion. The Leading Strand archive makes video recordings of the talks immediately available to colleagues of those who attended, while the proceedings of the Symposia are published by the Laboratory and thus made available to a wider audience than the scientists who attend the meeting. In-depth interviews with leading scientists undertaken during the Symposium provide an alternative snapshot of the state of current research. The annual Symposia will continue to be planned to further the progress of advancements in biomedical science. This proposal requests support for the 72nd Cold Spring Harbor Symposium which will focus on "Clocks and Rhythms". The meeting will address the phenomenon of biological clocks and their function and dysfunction in a variety of cells, tissues and organisms. All living organisms have internal body clocks that keep track of time, notably the dark-light cycle of the normal day. The molecular basis of these clocks has been the focus of intensive research over the past half-century. Biological rhythms depend upon the body clock, and in turn influence and are regulated by sleep and wakefulness, diet, metabolic rate, and body temperature. Disruption of these rhythms not only affects sleep patterns but also has been found to cause depression and related illness. The 2007 Cold Spring Harbor Symposium will bring together the leading experts in the field to discuss their latest findings.

Keywords: circadian rhythm, meeting /conference /symposium, travel

Project start date: 2007-04-01

Project end date: 2008-03-31

1R13NS058217-01 (2007): $10000

CSHL Course On Yeast Genetics And Genomics

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5T15HG004331-03 from National Human Genome Research Institute IRG: GNOM

Abstract: The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Yeast Genetics and Genomics Course proposes to continue with a long tradition of serving a critical role in the training of investigators new to the use of S. cerevisiae for biological research. The recent title change reflects a greater emphasis on familiarizing participants with the use of the latest techniques in genomics and proteomics. This three-week highly intensive course is designed to make each student proficient in the fundamentals of yeast genetics which then establishes the conceptual backbone for the more sophisticated methods that are covered as the course progresses. The laboratory experiments are broken into twelve multi-part sections that cover a variety of topics including 1. Fundamentals of working with yeast; 2. Introduction to yeast molecular biology; 3. Genetic and physical interaction analysis; and 4. Genomics. The experimental portion of the course is complemented by daily theoretical lectures by the instructors chosen for their proven expertise in the system and a world-class seminar series from renowned investigators that utilize the yeast system. As a result every student is exposed to the underlying principles of the methods they are being taught and their state-of-the-art application by the experts in the field. The course has a well-established reputation for, and seeks to continue, serving a diverse community of biologists that include scientists from disparate backgrounds such as evolutionary biology, quantitative biology, as well as biologists working in other systems that can prove a clear benefit from the utilization of yeast, given the large number of resources available for functional genomic studies in this model organism. In addition, educators that seek to incorporate yeast approaches in undergraduate courses are occasional students in the course. Although the general organization of the course is intended to remain the same from year to year, there is a natural evolution in content as the broad field of yeast biology and genomics changes; as instructors are replaced (~1 per year) new expertise is added to the course and the latest technologies and approaches are incorporated into the curriculum by the new instructors. Since at least two instructors remain from year to year, this evolution does not come at the sacrifice of continuity

Project start date: 2007-07-01

Project end date: 2010-05-31

1T15HG004331-01 (2007): $47500

CSHL Computational And Comparative Genomics Course

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5T15HG000013-16 from National Human Genome Research Institute IRG: GNOM

Abstract: The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory proposes to continue a course entitled "Computational & Comparative Genomics", to be held in the fall of 2008 - 2012. The Computational Genomics course provides experimental biologists with backgrounds in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemistry with the theoretical background and practical experience necessary to use and evaluate computational approaches to genome annotation and analysis, including protein sequence database searching, multiple sequence alignment, identification of promoters and other genetic regulatory elements, and the integration of sequence information into broader models of biological function. The course also provides computer scientists and mathematicians with an introduction to the algorithms, computational methods, and biological problems that are addressed in biological sequence analysis and computational biology. For post-doctoral fellows, and junior and senior investigators who are interested in changing their research direction towards computational biology, the course provides an introduction to computational biology methods and a survey of future directions. Over a seven day period, the students receive a strong grounding in the both the biological and computer science foundations for genome analysis and practical computer laboratory experience on challenging problems. The course is taught by internationally recognized leaders in the field, who provide hands-on demonstrations of the programs and biological databases that they have developed. At the end of the course, students can not only use effectively currently available tools in biological sequence analysis, they can also evaluate critically new computational approaches by considering alternative methods and interpretations, and appreciate the strengths and limitations of computational methods for answering broad biological questions

Project start date: 1991-06-06

Project end date: 2013-07-31

2T15HG000013-15 (2008): $47397

CSHL Genome Informatics Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
p.o. Box 100
cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13HG004482-01 from National Human Genome Research Institute IRG: GNOM

Abstract: The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory conference on Genome Informatics will focus on the provision and utilization of large scale genomic data and annotations. Genomic resources provide the fundamental descriptions of an increasing array of organisms at the molecular level. This meeting forms part of a series that alternates annually between Cold Spring Harbor, USA and Hinxton, UK, The goal of the series is to explore both the latest provision of these resources, and perhaps most importantly, their use as engines of biological discovery. This ranges from the storage of data and their associated data models, to the design of effective algorithms to uncover non-obvious aspects of these datasets, to ontologies to concisely describe biological information, and software systems to support curation, visualization, and exploration. The conference also covers the use of genomics in combination with various imaging applications and the latest attempts to understand microbial pathogenesis based on genomics. The conference has expanded its remit over the last few years, to ensure it remains current with the latest applications of informatics, all the while ensuring a strong focus on biological informatics. The conference brings together some of the leading scientists in this growing field, and we strongly encourage researchers from other large scale information handling disciplines to attend

Project start date: 2007-08-02

Project end date: 2008-07-31

1R13HG004482-01 (2007): $22000

2009 CSHL 74th Symposium On Evolution: The Molecular Landscape

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 1R13GM086910-01 from National Institute Of General Medical Sciences IRG: ZGM1

Abstract: Stewart, David Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference 74th Annual Symposium on Quantitative Biology EVOLUTION THE MOLECULAR LANDSCAPE May 27 - June 2, 2009 The Cold Spring Harbor Symposia on Quantitative Biology are held yearly at the beginning of June at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Cold Spring Harbor, New York. They bring together approximately 300-400 scientists from all over the world to present and evaluate new data and ideas in rapidly moving areas of biological research. Each year, a topic is chosen that seems to be at a stage where general and intensive scrutiny and review is needed. The Symposia always seek to bring research workers from abroad, as well as the U.S., so as to ensure the wide scope and depth of the program and to take advantage of their specific contributions. They also seek to provide outstanding younger scientists, both graduate students and post-doctoral fellows, with an opportunity to participate and communicate with more senior scientists. The Symposia also seek to have participation from women and minority scientists. The Symposia bring together scientists who use a variety of approaches, e.g., genetics, biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, and structural studies, to analyze problems in the area under discussion. The Leading Strand archive makes video recordings of the talks immediately available to colleagues of those who attended, while the proceedings of the Symposia are published by the Laboratory and thus made available to a wider audience than the scientists who attend the meeting. In-depth interviews with leading scientists undertaken during the Symposium provide an alternative snapshot of the state of current research. The annual Symposia will continue to be planned to further the progress of advancements in biomedical science. This proposal request support for the period 2009 to cover the 74th Cold Spring Harbor Symposium which will focus on "Evolution the Molecular Landscape" and is dedicated to Charles Darwin on the occasion of the bicentennial of his birth and the 150th anniversary of the publication of On the Origin of Species. The meeting will address our current understanding of evolutionary principles and mechanisms in a broad diversity of organisms. In particular, this application seeks federal support for junior participants including selected Symposium Fellows to actively present their latest work at this historic occasion. Given the anniversary of both Darwin´s birthday and the publication of his most important work, we are aware of many celebrations, exhibitions and events being held around the world. The 74th Cold Spring Harbor Symposium will distinguish itself from many of these gatherings by addressing a broad variety of evolutionary themes at a scientific level. In contrast with large society meetings, the Symposium´s intended scope is more focused, with greater emphasis placed on distilling our current understanding of evolutionary mechanisms and principles at the molecular level

Project start date: 2009-01-01

Project end date: 2009-12-31

CSHL Conference On PTEN Pathways

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5R13CA121807-03 from National Cancer Institute IRG: ZCA1

Abstract: PTEN protein negatively regulates cellular signals used in a wide variety of physiological processes. At the molecular level, PTEN is a phosphatase that destroys the second messenger phosphatidylinositol-3,4,5-triphosphate (Pl- 3,4,5-P) by removing a phosphate from the inositol ring. When PTEN is mutated, PI-3,4,5-P levels rise in the cell. PI-3 kinase proteins generate PI-3,4,5-P. PTEN and PI-3 kinase are key mediators of many cell surface receptors. Insulin is perhaps the best understood signal that utilizes PTEN and PI-3 kinase. T his highly conserved pathway employs the insulin receptor to stimulate PI-3 kinase. Elevated PI-3,4,5-P levels activate AKT kinase, which can phosphorylate the FOXO family members to attenuate their transcriptional activity. PTEN also regulates many other proteins in the cell and has been implicated in the control of the cell cycle, metabolism, cell growth, apoptosis, oxidation, and migration. Aberrant PTEN pathway signaling is associated with cancer, diabetes, and Parkinson´s disease. Genetic alteration of the PTEN/PI-3 kinase pathway in cancer is extremely common and is an outstanding target for therapy. This meeting will comprehensively address topics of basic research, disease models, and therapeutic intervention for the ultimate purpose of improving patient care. This proposal seeks support for three successive biennial meetings to be held in 2006, 2008 and 2010

Keywords: meeting /conference /symposium, molecular oncology, phosphomonoesterase, tumor suppressor protein health care quality, patient care travel

Project start date: 2006-03-01

Project end date: 2011-02-28

5R13CA121807-02 (2008): $7000

1R13CA121807-01 (2006): $15000

CSHL Conference On Molecular And Cellular Biology Of Plasminogen Activation

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 1R13HL095204-01 from National Heart, Lung, And Blood Institute IRG: ZHL1

Abstract: Proteolytic regulation, in general, and plasminogen activation in particular, are rapidly advancing fields at the interface of scientific research, clinical medicine, and biotechnology. The XIIth International Workshop on the Molecular and Cellular Biology of Plasminogen Activation will meet in Cold Spring Harbor, New York from March 31 - April 4, 2009. This biennial meeting has become a major forum for the free exchange of information beyond that achieved by publication and presentation at more formal meetings. The Workshop is unique in that the scientific program is entirely -driven. Thus, all of the presentations are selected from submitted s. In addition, emphasis is placed upon involving young investigators and trainees to participate in each session. s will be scored according to scientific merit, and then organized into a final program of short talks and posters. The program will accommodate approximately 50 short (10-15 min) oral presentations. Junior investigators are expected to constitute 30-40% of attendees. Both chairpersons and nearly half of the projected discussion leaders are women. Topics to be discussed will include the structure and function of plasminogen activators and related proteins, and the newly discovered roles of the plasminogen activation system in cardiovascular biology, neurobiology, tumor biology, tissue remodeling and repair, infection, and host defense. In addition, we will add new sessions designed to consider the plasmin/plasminogen activator-matrix metalloproteinase interface. Also new will be sessions devoted to the growing list of recently discovered serine proteases and membraneassociated proteases. Finally, the program will encompass one session each on high throughput genomic and proteomic tools for protease biology and on protease targeting for therapeutic purposes. The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference Facility provides proximity to the New York airports, state-of-the-art audio-visual facilities, comfortable housing, and outstanding meal services. Because of the -driven nature of this meeting, the material presented is largely unpublished, and therefore overlaps minimally with other related meetings

Project start date: 2009-04-01

Project end date: 2010-03-31

CSHL 2008 Conference On Mechanisms And Models Of Cancer

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory
p.o. Box 100
cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13CA133972-01 from National Cancer Institute IRG: ZCA1

Abstract: Molecular alterations in tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes and their associated pathways and networks contribute in a very significant way to the development of human cancers. The last several years have seen an enormous increase in research dealing with cancer genes and their roles in growth control and various stages of tumor development. The proposed conference, in the tradition of Cold Spring Harbor meetings, will emphasize new discoveries and provide an open forum for the presentation of the latest research and results on different aspects of research on molecular mechanisms and cell and animal models of cancer. This proposal seeks support for three successive biennial meetings to be held in 2008, 2010 and 2012. The 2008 meeting will include the following topics Cancer Genetics & Epigenetics; Mouse Models of Cancer; Stem Cells and Organismal Development; Signaling Mechanisms; Microenvironment & Inflammation; Experimental Therapeutics; DNA Damage and Cell Cycle Checkpoints; and Senescence & Apoptosis. The precise scope of the individual sessions will be decided on the basis of the openly submitted s. Each session will be chaired by two established scientists in the field including the organizers, who will establish the format of each session based on the submitted s. The chairs will introduce and give an overview of the topics in their sessions. Particular attention will be given to encouraging the active participation of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and new investigators, as well as the attendance of leading scientists in the field. Two leading experts in diverse areas of cancer genetics will deliver keynote addresses during the conference. It is anticipated that the meeting will provide unique opportunities for the exchange of data and ideas by both junior and senior investigators in different areas of research as they apply to cancer genetics and tumor suppressor genes. Given the success of past meetings held at CSHL on this topic between 1996 and 2006, we anticipate the attendance of about 400 scientists from laboratories around the world

Project start date: 2008-08-01

Project end date: 2013-07-31

1R13CA133972-01 (2008): $6000

CSHL Conference On Mechanisms And Models Of Cancer

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13CA121749-01 from National Cancer Institute IRG: ZCA1

Abstract: Molecular alterations in tumor suppressor genes and oncogenes and their associated pathways and networks contribute in a very significant way to the development of human cancers. The last several years have seen an enormous increase in research dealing with cancer genes and their roles in growth control and various stages of tumor development. The proposed conference, in the tradition of Cold Spring Harbor meetings, will emphasize new discoveries and provide an open forum for the presentation of the latest research and results on different aspects of research on molecular mechanisms and cell and animal models of cancer. This proposal seeks support for three successive biennial meetings to be held in 2006, 2008 and 2010. The 2006 meeting will include the following topics Cancer Signaling Pathways; Cell Cycle and Senescence; DNA Damage and Apoptosis Response; Tumor Microenvironment; Genomic Analysis and Screens; Oncogene/Tumor Suppressor Gene Networks in Tumor Development and Therapy; Rationalized Therapeutics; Animal Models of Cancer; Stem Cells and Cancer. The precise scope of the individual sessions will be decided on the basis of the openly submitted s. Each session will be chaired by two established scientists in the field including the organizers, who will establish the format of each session based on the submitted s. The chairs will introduce and give an overview of the topics in their sessions. Particular attention will be given to encouraging the active participation of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and new investigators, as well as the attendance of leading scientists in the field. It is anticipated that the meeting will provide unique opportunities for the exchange of data and ideas by both junior and senior investigators in different areas of research as they apply to cancer genetics and tumor suppressor genes. Given the success of past meetings held at CSHL on this topic between 1996 and 2005, we anticipate the attendance of about 400 scientists from laboratories around the world.

Keywords: disease /disorder model, meeting /conference /symposium, neoplasm /cancer, travel

Project start date: 2006-07-01

Project end date: 2007-06-30

1R13CA121749-01 (2006): $4662

CSHL CONFERENCE ON MICROBIAL PATHOGENESIS AND HOST RESPONSE

David J Stewart, Executive Director, Meetings And Courses
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, P.o. Box 100, Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13AI084255-01 from National Institute Of Allergy And Infectious Diseases

Abstract: Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Response September 8-12, 2009. The seventh international conference on Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Response will focus on interdisciplinary approaches to study infectious disease, integrating the disciplines of molecular microbiology, eukaryotic cell biology, immunology, and genomics. Microbial diseases have once again taken an important central role in health care worldwide, due to the emergence of new pathogens and the re-ascent of common pathogens. The meeting will provide an in depth focus on the approaches that are being used to elucidate the mechanisms of bacterial and fungal pathogenesis, and promote the application of these concepts to novel strategies for the control and intervention of infectious diseases. Oral and poster sessions will focus on major themes of microbial pathogenesis and the host response how microbes adhere to host cells; the function and delivery of microbial "effectors" of disease; the relationships between microbial metabolism, virulence, and the host; pathogen reservoirs and transmission to the host; the evolution of host-pathogen relationships; and how the host immune system reacts to microbial pathogens. The sessions will integrate studies on bacterial and fungal pathogens. The oral sessions will begin with 2-4 invited talks by established leaders in the field, followed by several shorter talks chosen from submitted s. The inclusion of two poster sessions as well as the allotment of ample time for questions following each talk will encourage extensive discussion between the participants. The meeting will be small enough (300 - 400 scientists) to facilitate these interactions, yet large enough to allow for oral presentations not only from established investigators, but also from younger investigators and those with novel perspectives. The integration of a wide variety of aspects of bacterial and fungal pathogenesis with the host response to pathogens should promote new interdisciplinary interactions that are seldom achieved at other meetings on microbial pathogenesis that are either more narrowly focused or so diverse that the topics are difficult to integrate. The resulting interdisciplinary interactions will yield novel experimental approaches that might not otherwise be possible

Keywords: Care, Health; Cell Function; Cell Process; Cell physiology; Cellular Function; Cellular Physiology; Cellular Process; Cellular biology; Communicable Diseases; Diagnostic; Discipline; Disease; Disorder; Eukaryote; Eukaryotic Cell; Evolution; Genome; Genomics; Healthcare; Immune response; Immune system; Immunology; Immunology (Including BRMP); Immunology (NCI Program); Infectious Disease Pathway; Infectious Diseases; Infectious Diseases and Manifestations; Infectious Disorder; Intermediary Metabolism; International; Intervention; Intervention Strategies; Investigators; METBL; Metabolic Processes; Metabolism; Microbe; Microbiology; Molecular; Oral; Participant; Pathogenesis; Posters; Posters [Publication Type]; Research Personnel; Researchers; Role; Science; Science of Microbiology; Scientist; Subcellular Process; Time; Transmission; Virulence; ing; body system, allergic/immunologic; cell biology; conference; disease/disorder; eukaryotida; host response; immunoresponse; improved; interdisciplinary approach; interventional strategy; meetings; microbial; microbial disease; new approaches; novel; novel approaches; novel strategies; novel strategy; organ system, allergic/immunologic; pathogen; posters; social role; symposium; transmission process

Relevance: Microbial infectious diseases have once again taken an important central role in health care worldwide, due to the emergence of new pathogens and the re-ascent of common pathogens. The proposed conference on Microbial Pathogenesis and Host Response will focus on the latest approaches to study and treat these devastating diseases, integrating the disciplines of molecular microbiology, eukaryotic cell biology, immunology, and genome science. The integration of a wide variety of aspects of bacterial and fungal disease mechanisms together with an improved understanding of the host´s response to these pathogens should promote new interdisciplinary interactions seldom achieved at other meetings on microbial pathogenesis. These interactions are anticipated to yield novel experimental approaches, paradigms, diagnostics and therapies

Project start date: 2009-08-21

Project end date: 2010-07-31

Budget start date: 21-AUG-2009

Budget end date: 31-JUL-2010

PFA/PA: PA-08-149

1R13AI084255-01 (2009): $21025

Changes In Tumor DNA Methylation With Decitabine

David J Stewart, Professor Of Medicine And Pharmacology
University Of Texas Md Anderson Can Ctr Cancer Center Houston, Tx 770304009

Grant 5R21CA112895-02 from National Cancer Institute IRG: CONC

Abstract: Impact of the new drug decitabine on human tumor DNA methylation will be assessed. Down-regulation of tumor suppressor genes and pro-apoptotic genes needed for chemotherapy efficacy may occur due to DNA hypermethylation. Decitabine may decrease DNA methylation and up-regulate gene expression at doses well below maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and effect may plateau at low doses. Six patients treated at each of 5 decitabine dose levels (2.5-20 mg/m2/day days 1-5 and 8-12 of a cycle) in a phase I trial will have tumor biopsies pre and post decitabine. Aim 1 To assess decitabine-induced changes in global DNA methylation, using ALU and LINE assays to compare pre- vs. post-decitabine tumor specimens, and to determine a) if the effect on DNA methylation is linear at low doses but plateaus as decitabine dose increases; b) the dose at which any such plateau occurs. In later studies (beyond the scope of this grant) in more homogeneous patient populations we will assess if this plateau-level dose is as effective as the MTD a) in single agent activity vs. specific cancers; b) at reversing resistance to other agents; and c) at demethylating and upregulating expression of silenced tumor suppressor and pro-apoptotic genes. Aim 2 To correlate changes in tumor with changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) DNA methylation with decitabine. If decitabine impact on PBMC DNA methylation mirrors its impact on tumor DNA methylation, then PBMCs may serve as a useful surrogate for tumor DNA methylation. Aim 3 To use pyrosequencing to conduct preliminary proof-of-principle assessments of impact of decitabine on methylation of selected tumor-suppressor and pro-apoptotic genes. For individual tumors, we will preferentially assess genes frequently reported to be silenced by hypermethylation in that specific tumor type. Impact on individual genes will be confirmed in later studies (beyond the scope of this grant). This preliminary look at individual genes may provide a molecular rationale for future decitabine therapeutic studies in specific relevant tumor types.

Keywords: DNA methylation, azo compound, deoxycytidine, drug adverse effect, drug screening /evaluation, gene induction /repression, human therapy evaluation, molecular oncology, neoplasm /cancer chemotherapy, neoplasm /cancer genetics, apoptosis, clinical trial phase I, dosage, drug resistance, gene expression, pharmacokinetics, sulfite, tumor suppressor gene, biopsy, blood test, clinical research, human subject, patient oriented research, polymerase chain reaction

Project start date: 2005-08-02

Project end date: 2007-07-31

5R21CA112895-02 (2006): $263677

1R21CA112895-01A1 (2005): $270022

CSHL Integrated Data Analysis For High Throughput Biology

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5T15CA086855-11 from National Cancer Institute IRG: NCI

Abstract: High-throughput biology, exemplified by DNA microarrays for gene expression and SNP genotyping, array comparative genomic hybridization, forward- and reverse-phase proteomic assays, and assays for epigenetic processes such as methylation, is rapidly generating enormous observation sets. Biologists seeking to make sense of this growing body of data need to have a firm grasp of statistical methodology. The primary objective of the Cold Spring Harbor summer course in Integrated Data Analysis For High Throughput Biology (to be held 2007-2011) is to build competence in quantitative methods for the analysis of high-throughput molecular biology data, from which meaningful inferences about biological processes can be drawn. Such complete and in-depth training in this emerging technology is currently unavailable elsewhere. The program seeks to provide the opportunity for course participants to learn the fundamental principles and the most recent concepts in applying quantitative methods to the analysis of high-throughput molecular biology data, with emphasis on interpretation and integration of microarray datasets, and the joint interpretation of gene expression patterns and features of genomic sequence; provide the opportunity for research workers in diverse fields of biology to become familiar with the techniques and principles of data analysis and statistical inference along with methods of statistical computing to implement these techniques; provide talented graduate students and postdoctoral fellows in this area with an opportunity to work, study and associate with outstanding research workers, including biologists who experimentally generate high-throughput databases and statistical methodologists who create new interpretive and computational frameworks. The aim of this course is to provide intensive hands-on training over a two week period that will prepare the participant to initiate the analysis of large and complex biological data sets, as exemplified by the data arising from DNA microarray experiments. Work can then be directly applied to complex studies of mutation, gene expression and other "whole-genome" studies in a wide range of organisms and tissues, not least in the study of cancer where the hallmark of aberrant genomes particularly requires the use of these whole-genome approaches together with advanced statistical methodologies to interpret the results

Project start date: 1999-09-30

Project end date: 2012-04-30

2T15CA086855-09 (2007): $72468

2008 The Biology Of Genomes Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5R13HG003676-05 from National Human Genome Research Institute IRG: GNOM

Abstract: Five successive annual conferences on THE BIOLOGY OF GENOMES (scheduled for each May of 2008-2012) will be held at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory and will draw together the major practitioners in the field of genome research. In the tradition of Cold Spring Harbor meetings, new discoveries in the field will be emphasized. Major areas for discussion and presentations will include developments and progress in computational genomics, genome analysis in model organisms, human genetic diseases, and other topics highly relevant to the ongoing efforts in the genomics field. Each meeting will include seven platform sessions (typically with eight speakers each), three poster sessions, and a keynote speaker session. Each session will be co-chaired by two leading investigators in the field who together with the organizers will establish the format of each session based on the submitted s. Particular attention will be paid to encourage active participation by graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and new investigators as well as the attendance by leading scientists in the field. Efforts are made to encourage attendance by women and individuals from communities under-represented in the biological sciences. As with the previous 20 conferences, it is anticipated that the proposed meetings will provide unique opportunities for the exchange of data, ideas, and experiences in the various sub-disciplines of genome research. The meetings will be international in nature, with an anticipated yearly attendance of 400-450 investigators. An associated oral history project will record and publish reflections from leading genome scientists who attend the meeting(s)

Keywords: genome, meeting /conference /symposium travel

Project start date: 2005-04-08

Project end date: 2013-03-31

CSHL Conference On Physiological Genomics And Rat Models, December 8-11, 2005

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 5R13HL083696-03 from National Heart, Lung, And Blood Institute IRG: ZHL1

Abstract: COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY CONFERENCE RAT GENOMICS and MODELS The rat is a major model system for biomedical research. Since the rat genome project was initiated in 1996, there has been an explosion in the number of genomics reagents (genetic markers, multiple genetic maps, radiation hybrids and their associated maps, ESTs), as well as genomic databases, physiological databases, an animal repository, and most recently, the draft genomic sequence and the development of gene knockouts. These reagents, tools and databases have been developed by international teams, largely funded by the combined efforts of most of the NIH Institutes, with NHLBI leading funding and direction. After extensive discussion with members of the community and with staff at Cold Spring Harbor, the first "rat meeting" was held there in December 1999. The 1999 meeting on "Physiological Genomics and Rat Models" was successful in part because it was the first rat meeting not dominated by a specific disease group, and helped to consolidate the "rat community" of laboratories and investigators interested in applying this model system to their work. The meeting was held again in December 2001 and 2003, and will be held every two years at Cold Spring Harbor for at least the next five years, under the title, "Rat Genomics and Models". This grant seeks support to help offset the costs of this important meeting for the next three meetings (2005, 2007, 2009) to help maintain the continued quality of the meeting by enabling more speakers to be invited, and support junior and minority scientists; thereby allowing the organizers more flexibility in bringing new investigators into this growing field.

Keywords: genetic model, genome, laboratory rat, meeting /conference /symposium, travel

Project start date: 2005-09-30

Project end date: 2008-08-31

5R13HL083696-03 (2007): $15000

CSHL Conference On Physiological Genomics & Rat Models, December 8-11, 2005

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 5R13HL083696-02 from National Heart, Lung, And Blood Institute IRG: ZHL1

Abstract: COLD SPRING HARBOR LABORATORY CONFERENCE RAT GENOMICS and MODELS The rat is a major model system for biomedical research. Since the rat genome project was initiated in 1996, there has been an explosion in the number of genomics reagents (genetic markers, multiple genetic maps, radiation hybrids and their associated maps, ESTs), as well as genomic databases, physiological databases, an animal repository, and most recently, the draft genomic sequence and the development of gene knockouts. These reagents, tools and databases have been developed by international teams, largely funded by the combined efforts of most of the NIH Institutes, with NHLBI leading funding and direction. After extensive discussion with members of the community and with staff at Cold Spring Harbor, the first "rat meeting" was held there in December 1999. The 1999 meeting on "Physiological Genomics and Rat Models" was successful in part because it was the first rat meeting not dominated by a specific disease group, and helped to consolidate the "rat community" of laboratories and investigators interested in applying this model system to their work. The meeting was held again in December 2001 and 2003, and will be held every two years at Cold Spring Harbor for at least the next five years, under the title, "Rat Genomics and Models". This grant seeks support to help offset the costs of this important meeting for the next three meetings (2005, 2007, 2009) to help maintain the continued quality of the meeting by enabling more speakers to be invited, and support junior and minority scientists; thereby allowing the organizers more flexibility in bringing new investigators into this growing field.

Keywords: genetic model, genome, laboratory rat, meeting /conference /symposium, travel

Project start date: 2005-09-30

Project end date: 2008-08-31

5R13HL083696-02 (2006): $15000

1R13HL083696-01 (2005): $15000

Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference On The Molecular Genetics Of Aging

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory P.o. Box 100 Cold Spring Harbor, Ny 11724

Grant 1R13AG029088-01 from National Institute On Aging IRG: NIA

Abstract: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference on the Molecular Genetics of Aging October 4 - 8, 2006. The proposed meeting on the Molecular Genetics of Aging, to be held biennially in 2006, 2008 and 2010, will bring together about 250-300 scientists from the international community working on different aspects of the genetics and molecular biology of aging. The meeting will provide an intense, in-depth forum for presenting new findings and formulating new ideas in different areas of molecular aging research in which rapid progress is being made. 2006 Sessions will include (1) Genetics of Aging; (2); Genomics and Aging (3); Cancer and Telomeres (4) Genetics of Aging II; (5) Senescence and Apoptosis; (6) Mice and Altered Aging; (7) Metabolism and Aging; and (8) Mitochondria and Aging. In the past few years, remarkable progress has been made in establishing a molecular foundation in these areas, and their interrelationship is becoming increasingly clear. The meeting will feature anchoring talks by leading scientists working in these areas who will chair the individual sessions. 1 of the key strengths of the proposed meeting series is that because the large majority of talks are selected from the openly submitted s 3 months prior to the meeting, ample opportunity is provided for junior scientists to present their results, and also for the presentation of important, late-breaking findings. The proposed meeting will foster interaction among molecular gerontologists and molecular biologists working in related areas, and provide a forum for the development of new ideas and approaches to aging research. Interest in aging research has risen sharply in recent years owing to 2 factors firstly, an increasing proportion of the population in the United States are elderly, with resultant consequences on the nation s societal structure and economy brought about by this major shift in demographics. Secondly, the tools and advances of modern biology are helping to drive research into the molecular basis of normal aging and the relationship of these processes to diseases like cancer and Alzheimer s. The central aim of the Cold Spring Harbor meeting series on the Molecular Genetics of Aging is to provide an open and interactive forum in which leading aging researchers and their junior colleagues can present and discuss their most recent unpublished work and form collaborations that facilitate future progress in the field.

Keywords: aging, meeting /conference /symposium, molecular genetics, cell senescence, longevity, oxidative stress, telomere, travel

Project start date: 2006-07-01

Project end date: 2007-06-30

1R13AG029088-01 (2006): $20449

CSHL 2009 Conference On Telomeres And Telomerase

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 1R13AG033421-01 from National Institute On Aging IRG: NIA

Abstract: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference on Telomeres and Telomerase April 28-May 2, 2009 Telomeres are specialized protein-DNA complexes that protect the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. In most eukaryotes, telomeres contain short DNA repeats that are maintained by the telomerase reverse transcriptase. Since telomerase counteracts the terminal sequence loss that accompanies replication of linear DNA, the enzyme is required for long-term cellular proliferation. The field of telomere biology has grown rapidly since it was recognized that telomere dynamics and telomerase activation play a pivotal role in human cancer and in cellular senescence. As a result, the telomere field is now a highly diverse and dynamic area, representing a wide variety of research interests (cancer, aging, cell cycle, meiosis, recombination, replication, etc.) and a large number of different model organisms (mammals, flies, plants, nematodes, fungi and protozoa). The previous four Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory meetings on Telomeres and Telomerase, were crucial in bringing together this diverse group of researchers and resulted in vigorous discussion and synergistic interactions stimulated by the presentation of a very large body of unpublished data. Since the CSH Telomere and Telomerase meeting represents the only opportunity for scientists in this rapidly growing field to interact as a whole, this meeting is of the utmost importance for the future of the field. Furthermore, the format of CSH meetings, where all talks are chosen from submitted s, maximizes the opportunity for new researchers and young investigators to present their most recent unpublished work. The prior meetings had a uniformly high attendance rate from an international group of researchers. The platform presentations and posters at the past meeting presented the major discoveries in the field well before publication. We anticipate that the 2009 meeting will be equally well attended. The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory meetings on Telomeres and Telomerase, are crucial in bringing together this diverse group of researchers. The 2009 meeting will result in vigorous discussion and synergistic interactions stimulated by the presentation of a large body of unpublished data. Telomeres are specialized protein-DNA complexes that protect the ends of eukaryotic chromosomes. The field of telomere biology has grown rapidly since it was recognized that telomere dynamics and telomerase activation play a pivotal role in human cancer and in cellular senescence. As a result, the telomere field is now a highly diverse and dynamic area, representing a wide variety of research interests (cancer, aging, cell cycle, meiosis, recombination, replication, etc.) and a large number of different model organisms (mammals, fungi, protozoa, plants)

Project start date: 2009-03-01

Project end date: 2010-02-28

CSHL Conference On Network Biology

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 1R13CA138140-01 from National Cancer Institute IRG: ZCA1

Abstract: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference NETWORK BIOLOGY March 18 - 21, 2009 With the explosion in data from genomics and proteomics, research has begun to focus on how groups of individual genes, proteins and metabolites function together in coordinate patterns and networks. The discovery of the role of small regulatory RNAs has lent an additional layer of regulation to the complexity of biological systems. The relevance of these networks to cancer biology, and how these networks are hijacked or silenced by tumor cells, is an emerging theme in the fight against the devastating set of diseases called cancer. The proposed conference, in the tradition of Cold Spring Harbor meetings, will emphasize new discoveries and provide an open forum for the presentation of the latest research and results on different aspects of research into these regulatory networks of biological molecules and their relevance to the control and deregulation of cell division and growth, signaling, response to microenvironment, migration and metastasis. This proposal seeks support for three successive biennial meetings to be held in 2009, 2011 and 2013. The 2009 meeting will include the following topics transcriptional and post-transcriptional networks; signaling and machinery networks; metabolic networks; from network to protein properties; genetic networks; and network medicine. Six platform sessions are tentatively planned around these broad themes. It should however be noted that the final session topics and order of sessions are only assembled after the deadline, to ensure that the latest developments in the field are well represented. Particular attention will be given to encouraging the active participation of graduate students, postdoctoral fellows and new investigators, as well as the attendance of leading scientists in the field. It is anticipated that the meeting will provide unique opportunities for the exchange of data and ideas by both junior and senior investigators in different areas of research as they apply to biological systems in general, and cancer in particular. Given the success of past meetings on this topic held under the auspices of CSHL´s joint program with the UK-based Wellcome Trust between 2005 and 2008, we anticipate the attendance of about 200 scientists from laboratories around the world. With the explosion in information about biological systems from many different projects around the world, research has begun to focus on how groups of individual genes, proteins, small RNAs and metabolites function together in coordinate patterns and networks. The relevance of these networks to cancer biology, and how these networks are hijacked or silenced by tumor cells, is an emerging theme in the fight against the devastating set of diseases. Understanding network biology will lay the coherent groundwork necessary for the development of better targeted strategies and therapies for a wide variety of human ailments. This biennial international conference (2009, 2011 and 2013) will bring together the leading experts in the field to discuss their latest findings

Project start date: 2009-04-21

Project end date: 2014-02-28

2008 CSHL Molecular Genetics Of Aging Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5R13AG032154-02 from National Institute On Aging IRG: NIA

Abstract: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference Molecular Genetics of Aging September 24 - 28, 2008. The proposed meeting series on the Molecular Genetics of Aging, to be held biennially in 2008, 2010 and 2012, was first held in 1993 and has grown from a small meeting focused on a fledgling field to an exciting venue for new and experienced investigators in a now fast-moving field. The conference(s) will bring together about 300-350 scientists from the international community working on different aspects of the genetics and molecular biology of aging. The meeting will provide an intense, in-depth forum for presenting new findings and formulating new ideas in different areas of molecular aging research in which rapid progress is being made. Platform sessions in the 2008 meeting will include (1) Genetics I; (2) Genomic Stability; (3) Mitochondria/Metabolism; (4) Cellular Senescence/Apoptosis/Stress; (5) Stem Cells; (6) Proliferative Homeostasis; (7) Environment/Interventions; (8) Genetics II. In the past few years, remarkable progress has been made in establishing a molecular foundation in these areas, and their interrelationship is becoming increasingly clear. The meeting will feature anchoring talks by leading scientists working in these areas who will chair the individual sessions. One of the key strengths of the proposed meeting series is that because the large majority of talks are selected from the openly submitted s three months prior to the meeting, ample opportunity is provided for junior scientists to present their results, and also for the presentation of important, late-breaking findings. The meeting format also ensures time for interactions between scientists, particularly during meals and in poster sessions. The program organizers (with rotation), scope, aim and purpose of the 2010 and 2012 meetings will be similar. The meeting will foster interaction among molecular gerontologists and molecular biologists working in related areas, and provide a forum for the development of new ideas and approaches to aging research. Great progress has been made over the last decade in understanding the cellular and molecular basis for how if not why organisms age. It is now clear that genes as well as environment influence lifespan, but the interactions of these genes and processes, and how these relate to other factors recognized as playing a role in organismal aging, including disease and metabolism, remain poorly understood. This international biennial conference series on the Molecular Genetics of Aging is intended to be a forum for discussion of the latest research in the field. This conference is notable because the majority of talks are selected from openly submitted s giving ample opportunity for broad and diverse representation of junior scientists including graduate students to present their latest research. The overall goal of this series is to promote discussion and accelerate research into the biological basis of aging, and to improve treatment for diseases associated with aging, as well as the aging process itself

Project start date: 2008-03-01

Project end date: 2013-02-28

2008 CSHL Gene Expression And Signaling In The Immune System Conference

David J Stewart
Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory

Grant 5R13AI078720-02 from National Institute Of Allergy And Infectious Diseases IRG: ZAI1

Abstract: Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Conference Gene Expression and Signaling in the Immune System Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory April 22-26, 2008. The proposed meeting series on Gene Expression and Signaling in the Immune System, to be held biennially in 2008, 2010 and 2012, will focus on the most recent advances in this rapidly moving field. The meeting will be open, with attendance limited only by the facilities available to a maximum of 450 participants. Oral presentations will be delivered by a combination of invited speakers and those selected from submitted s. This ensures the participation of junior and senior leaders in the field and the presentation of the most exciting results emerging at the time of the meeting. The oral presentations will be complemented by poster presentations in two sessions, also selected from submitted s. The areas to be covered in the 2008 meeting include 1) stem cells and early developmental decisions, 2) regulation of immune cell development, 3) chromatin structure and epigenetic regulation, 4) antigen receptor gene assembly and modification, 5) signal transduction in immune cells, 6) regulation of lymphocyte functions, and 7) innate immunity. Rather than focusing on one particular type of immune cell or process, the meeting will focus on mechanistic findings that most significantly and rigorously advance our knowledge of signal transduction and gene regulation circuitry within the immune system. The subsequent meetings will follow a similar format and will include topics that are highly relevant at the time of the meeting. Ample opportunity is provided for junior scientists to present their results, and also for the presentation of important, late-breaking findings. The meeting format also ensures time for interactions between scientists, particularly during meals and in poster sessions. The meeting will foster interaction among immunologists working in related areas, and provide a forum for the development of new ideas and approaches to immune system signaling and gene expression. The immune system provides the body´s major defense against both infectious diseases and cancer. It employs a wide variety of strategies including innate defenses, that recognize common features of microbes and distressed cells, and acquired immunity that depends on prior exposure to an infectious agent (the basis of vaccination). Weakness in these defense mechanisms may be inherited (as in severe combined immunodeficiency disease or "bubble boy" syndrome) or acquired (as in the case of AIDS or after cancer treatment). The immune system may also respond too aggressively, as in various forms of allergy, or may attack the body´s own cells, as in autoimmune diseases. The cells of the immune system have to interpret a wide variety of molecular and chemical signals to orchestrate a complex pattern of events in response to a given challenge. How these signals are received, transmitted, and interpreted forms the scope of this important conference series. The series is notable not only because it attracts a unique subset of immunologists focused on genes and their mechanisms of action but because many of the talks are selected from openly submitted s giving ample opportunity for broad and diverse representation of junior scientists including graduate students to present their latest research

Project start date: 2008-04-01

Project end date: 2013-03-31