The presentation of basic and translational scientific discoveries is essential to the full-scope programming of the ATS International Conference. Today’s highlights include the start of the ATS 2015 Basic Science Core, which explores the theme “Host Pathogen Interactions and Host Defense” today through Tuesday
During the Basic Science Core, a thematically linked set of symposia and abstract-based sessions that are coordinated on consecutive days, presenters will cover research discoveries and how technological advances are revolutionizing the field.
“Now in its third year, the Basic Science Core continues to build on its past success, and we are pleased to present the best researchers on the topic of host pathogen interactions and host defense,” says Irina Petrache, MD, chair of the International Conference Committee.
Also offered today are sessions on nontuberculous mycobacterial infections and asthma exacerbations.
Presenters note that nontuberculous mycobacterial infections are increasing and are challenging to diagnosis and treat, and recent studies have documented significant increases in the incidence and prevalence of pulmonary NTM infections. “Nontuberculous Mycobacterial Infections: An Evolving Paradigm,” from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. today in Bellco Theatre Section 3 (Street Level) Colorado Convention Center, will provide attendees with an understanding of how to interpret new diagnostic tests for NTM infections, use new drugs and repurposed drugs for treatment of NTM infections, and address issues related to transmission of NTM.
New findings about mechanisms modulating host defense processes in asthma and about how dysregulated host defense can lead to clinical asthma exacerbations will be covered in “Asthma Exacerbations: New Concepts in 2015” from 2:15 to 4:15 p.m. today in Centennial Ballroom A-C (Third Floor), Hyatt Regency Denver at Colorado Convention Center.
Presenters will describe the current state of knowledge regarding the biology and mechanisms driving dysregulated host defense in asthma resulting in exacerbations, airway injury, and deranged repair processes. Additionally, presenters will share how to improve the quality of life and health status by predicting and reducing the frequency of asthma exacerbations.
Science and Innovation Center
Great programming continues in the Science and Innovation Center, which is open today through Tuesday in E Concourse (Street Level) Colorado Convention Center. Today’s special event will be the BEAR (Building Education to Advance Research) Cage competition at 1:30 p.m., in which three investigators will compete for grants before a live audience by pitching their highly innovative research proposals to a panel of experts. The contestants are Laura Crotty-Alexander, MD, Joshua P. Fessel, MD, PhD, and Tiffany M. Powell-Wiley MD, MPH, FAHA. The grand prize winner will receive $5,000, and the runners-up will each receive $2,500.
The center also will feature the SIC 101 series, where attendees can learn the basic principles underpinning high-profile symposia at ATS 2015 Denver, and other events tailored to researchers’ interests. Topics planned include:
Today
7:15 to 8:15 a.m.
Autophagy 101
11 a.m. to Noon
Biofilms 101
Monday
7:15 to 8:15 a.m.
Flow Cytometry 101
11 a.m. to Noon
Proteostasis 101
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Scientific Abstract Awards
Join us to celebrate the best scientific abstracts submitted to ATS 2015 by early career professionals.
Tuesday
11 a.m. to Noon
NHLBI presentation
Meet and learn from a representative of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute.
Basic Science Core: “Host Pathogen Interactions and Host Defense”
All sessions will be in Mile High Ballroom 2A/3A (Lower Level) Colorado Convention Center unless otherwise indicated.
Today
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
“Innate Lymphoid Cells: Emerging Mediators of Pulmonary Inflammation”
2:15 to 4: 15 p.m.
“Dr. Jekyll or Mr. Hyde? Macrophage Contributions in Pulmonary Disease”
Monday
9:30 to 11: 30 a.m.
“How Pathogens Evade Immune Defenses and How We Can Fight Back”
2:15 to 4: 15 p.m.
“Us Versus Them: Mucins and Biofilms in the Battle for the Lungs”
Tuesday
9:30 to 11:30 a.m.
“Conflict or Peaceful Co-Existence? The Bacterial Lung Microbiome and Host Immunity”
Session will be in Mile High Ballroom 1 A-B (Lower Level) Colorado Convention Center
2:15 to 4:15 p.m.
“Scientific Breakthroughs of the Year: Host Pathogen Interactions and Host Defense”