ORGANIZERS:

Yinon Ben Beriah, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Sigal Ben Yehuda, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Ivo G. Boneca, Pasteur Institute
Ilan Rosenshine, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
Philippe Sansonetti, Pasteur Institute
Robert Weil, Pasteur Institute

 

The conference will focus on host-pathogen interaction. Host-pathogen interaction is the most important factor in determining the fate of infection, including the severity of a disease. Pathogens possess highly evolved mechanisms for infection and for adaptation to various host cells, both of which protect them against the host immune system.

Although the disease mechanisms vary considerably, most pathogens have virulence factors that interact with host molecules, often perturbing normal cellular processes. These virulence factors may mimic host molecules, and mediate diverse events such as adhesion and invasion of the pathogen. Understanding how pathogens employ complex strategies to mimic and manipulate host cell functions, and subvert cell signalling and host immune systems, can help the design of new therapeutic strategies.

We will bring together leading scientists from different disciplines related to the topic of microbiology and host-pathogen interaction for presentations and discussions of new concepts.