Description of event:
March 19—24, 2013
Whistler Conference Centre (meeting only), Whistler, British Columbia, Canada
Meeting Summary
RNA silencing systems are now well established as key components of regulation and control in many
eukaryotes including
animals and plants. The first flush of discoveries was focused around post-transcriptional regulation. It was anticipated that the small
RNA specificity determinants of these
silencing systems could be negative switches acting alongside
transcription factors control of
gene expression during growth, development and responses to external stimuli. More recently, the emphasis has shifted. In terms of post-transcriptional regulation, it is now recognized that there are only a few examples in plants and worms in which sRNAs are simple switches. These RNAs are now seen as modulators or fine tuners of post-transcriptional regulation that are often components of negative feedback loops or of control networks in which there are long
RNA negative regulators of the sRNAs and secondary sRNAs. The sRNAs can be transported or secreted out of
cells and so the
RNA mediated control networks may extend beyond one
cell. The anticipated potential of sRNA therapeutics has yet to be delivered but they are proving to be a powerful
diagnostic tool in
cancer and other diseases. A second emerging area is in the link between sRNAs and epigenetic regulation. This link was revealed first from plant work but it is now known in
animals in connection with piwi-associated RNAs or piRNAs. These epigenetic sRNAs and piRNAs are certainly important in defense against transposable elements, but it is possible that they also influence
genetic or epigenetic regulation in other
cell types. In this complex
array of sRNA functions, growing interest is now devoted also to the crucial role of long noncoding RNAs in processes of
gene expression control both at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. This Keystone Symposia meeting on
RNA Silencing will
focus on these emerging topics of network control systems and epigenetic regulation by various types of sRNA. The
focus on
RNA silencing in general provides an umbrella under which speakers from different areas of research (e.g., transcriptional regulation,
cancer biology, development,
epigenetics and
virology) are being brought together in an environment that is highly conducive to cross-talk. Emphasis has also be placed on showcasing early stage investigators presenting on the program with a view to promoting the next generation of scientists in the
RNA silencing field.
General information
North of Vancouver, Whistler Resort sets amidst the spectacular Coast Mountains of British Columbia. Recreational activities include alpine skiing, cross-country skiing, and many other winter adventures at both Whistler and Blackcomb. There are fitness centers, world-class spas, many superb dining options, and excellent shopping for the relaxed afternoon. Whistler is a great destination for families, as it offers many entertainment and relaxation options. The meetings will be held at the Whistler Conference Centre.
Travel information
Conference Center Notes: The Whistler Conference Center is within one mile of all suggested hotels. Most hotels have a shuttle but the village connecting the Conference Center and the hotels is maintained and lined with shops and restaurants. Some parking is available around the Conference Center. Fees may apply.
Shuttle Information: The WAVE (Whistler and Valley Express) operates regular bus trips to all of Whistler’s neighborhoods for a small fee. Buses leave from the Village bus loop. There is also a free Village Shuttle with stops in Whistler Village, Village North, Upper Village and the Benchlands. Look for more information when you check in at the meeting.
Location
Whistler Conference Centre (meeting only)
Whistler Conference Centre
Whistler, British Columbia V0N 1B4
Canada
Contact us
Keystone Symposia
160 U.S. Highway 6, Suite 200
PO Box 1630
Silverthorne, CO 80498