Description of event:
The Gut Microbiome: The Effector/Regulatory Immune Network
Scientific Organizers: Lloyd H. Kasper, Javier Ochoa-Repáraz and Sarkis K. Mazmanian
February 10—15, 2013
Sagebrush Inn and Conference Center, Taos, New Mexico, USA
Meeting Summary
The
mammalian GI track harbors a complex assemblage of microbial organisms that are essential for the development of the immune system. Alterations of the gut microbiota may lead to immune dysregulation both in the gut and in distal effector sites leading to the development of
autoimmune disease. This meeting will
focus on the role of the microbiota in balancing the effector and regulatory response leading to immune homeostasis. Recent findings suggest that altering certain bacterial populations present in the gut can lead to an inflammatory state associated with Th1/Th17 polarization. In contrast, other commensal
bacteria and their antigenic products, when presented in the correct context, are regulatory and protect against
inflammation. Particular emphasis will be placed on the biologic dynamics of the microbiota, the
interaction with APC, modulation of the regulatory network and the immunologic consequences on experimental and human
autoimmune conditions such as IBD, CNS demyelination and RA. The practical application of these novel
interactions between the host and gut microbiota may lead to the identification of new therapeutics and novel insights into the mechanisms of human
autoimmunity. The opportunity to assemble basic scientists in bacteriology and mucosal
immunology with clinicians to explore this rapidly expanding arena is unique as there have been no previous organized meetings to meet this need. How the gut microbiome guides effector and regulatory immune functions will provide new
pathways for the development of novel
therapeutic targets.
General information:
Sagebrush Inn & Conference Center is located in Taos, New Mexico. The small, relaxed community of Taos, has residents whose ancestors have been living in the area for over 1000 years. It is located between the headwaters of the Rio Grande River and the base of the Sangre de Cristo range of the southern Rocky Mountains. Taos is internationally famous for its local art scene, interesting shops, museums, and galleries. Restaurants in the area are renowned for their creative interpretation of the traditional local flavor. Downhill skiing is available at the Taos Ski Valley, 20 miles (32 km) away. There will be complimentary transportation from the Sagebrush Inn to the Taos Ski Valley each day. If you have your own vehicle you can visit Red River or Angel Fire Ski areas for snowboarding or cross-country skiing.
Plenary Session Topics:
> The Gut Microbiome
> Gut Microbiome and Immune Development
> Gut Microbiome-APC
Interactions
> Experimental Colitis/IBD: Regulator Networks
> Gut
Bacteria Modulation of Effector Networks
> Gut Modulation of Effector/Regulatory Networks
in CNS
Disease
> Modulation of Gut Microbiota and
Autoimmunity
> Gut
Bacteria Modulation of
Autoimmunity
Location:
Sagebrush Inn and Conference Center
1508 Paseo del Pueblo Sur
Taos, New Mexico 87571-6526
USA
Travel information
Conference Center Notes: Sagebrush Inn Conference Center is seperate from the guest rooms. A short walk outside will be necessary.
Shuttle Information: A shuttle line runs from downtown historic Taos to most of the suggested hotels. Shuttle times and pick up locations will be available at the meeting. A shuttle to Taos Ski Valley will be available daily.
Contact us:
Keystone Symposia
160 U.S. Highway 6, Suite 200
PO Box 1630
Silverthorne, CO 80498