Autophagy Conference 2011

7 - 11 December 2011, Xcaret, Mexico

Introduction

Autophagy is an evolutionarily conserved lysosomal degradative pathway which functions as homeostatic mechanism in all eukaryotic cells. Following genetic breakthroughs in yeast, the field of autophagy research has been growing exponentially, with a wide-range of exciting discoveries regarding the molecular mechanisms and physiological roles of autophagy. The latter include adaptation to stress; clearance of unwanted intracellular components such as damaged or surplus organelles, protein aggregates, and microbes; life span extension; metabolic regulation; tumor suppression; immunity; and development. The deregulation of autophagy has been linked to numerous human diseases, including neurodegeneration, cancer, infectious diseases, metabolic diseases, and inflammatory diseases. The Zing Conference on Autophagy will bring together experts in autophagy to discuss cutting-edge research on topics that span from fundamental questions regarding the molecular, cellular, and biochemical mechanisms of autophagy to the diverse roles of autophagy in physiology and pathophysiology. Junior scientists, graduate students, and newcomers to the autophagy field will be able to present their work in poster format and extensively interact with senior leaders in the field in a beautiful resort venue. Thus, the Zing Conference will provide a unique opportunity for both experts and newcomers to the autophagy field to exchange ideas, develop new collaborations, and help advance our knowledge of autophagy.