32st Annual meeting of the European Macrophage and Dendritic Cell Society (EMDS)

Polo Zanotto, 27-29 September

Myeloid cells comprise different populations of mature, terminally differentiated macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils, as well as immature myeloid progenitors. These cells are evolutionarily designed to protect the host from pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. However, during chronic inflammation-associated diseases, such as cancer, these cells undergo sequential phenotypical changes linked to an alteration of the normal hematopoiesis that promotes the expansion of myeloid cells with negative immune regulatory activity on adaptive immunity.

The specific goals of this meeting are a better understanding of myeloid cells ontogeny, under normal and pathological conditions, a critical analysis of markers and genetic signatures that can partially resolve the definition of their identity, and potential therapeutic approaches able to increase the efficacy of current immunotherapy.

The program is based on 6 specific sections in which 19 excellent scientists will share their exciting research results with us. Moreover, we invited 4 outstanding scientists, whose studies had deeply imprinted the current knowledge about myeloid cells, to deliver a specific keynote lecture during the congress. Finally, we will have a lively poster session providing a great occasion to discuss and socialize with colleagues and we will select 12 abstracts presented by young researchers as short talks. Besides an outstanding scientific program, our meeting will provide opportunities for participants to meet colleagues, build networks, and establish future collaborations.