Tagung "Neuronal Calcium Sensors in Health and Disease"

Organizers: Prof. Dr. Daniele Dell'Orco University of Verona, Italy and Prof. Dr. Karl-Wilhelm Koch Carl von Ossietzky Universität Oldenburg Spatial and temporal variations in intracellular Ca2+-signals are key phenomena in physiological processes like for example fertilization, apoptosis, muscle contraction neuronal activity and sensory perception. The precise detection and regulation of free intracellular Ca2+ in cells in general and in neurons in particular is a prerequisite for keeping normal cell function. Specific structural and biochemical features of neuronal calcium sensor (NCS) proteins are discussed as determinants of precise cell localization, specific target regulation and non-redundant function. The diversity of these sensor proteins reflects the multiplicity of their biological roles, which include control of gene transcription, neuronal growth and survival, channel and receptor regulation, neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity. In the last years, an increasing number of neurological disorders and degenerative diseases have been associated with altered functions of specific NCS proteins, which range from autism to Alzheimer and Parkinson disease.
Progress in structural, biochemical and biophysical research on NCS will be discussed in our international meeting, thus providing a unique, demand-oriented, and up-to-date mechanistic view on NCS function and properties. A special focus of the meeting is starting a discussion about how the alteration of proteins that detect and transduce Ca2+ signals may impact neuronal function and trigger disease. The meeting will be primarily oriented to young researchers (Postdocs and principal investigators at an early stage of their career) active in the NCS field. A consistent number of slots will be ensured for selected oral talks from young participants. The poster sessions will constitute an important part of the meeting and will take place during both the full-time days, in order to ensure full participation and involvement. For more informations pleas klick here.