Myomatrix 2012

Background

Myomatrix 2012 is a unique conference dedicated to exploring the junction between muscle and extracellular matrix, the myomatrix, the central starting point of inquiry into underlying disease pathogenesis in the CMDs and muscular dystrophies. The myomatrix expands our understanding of traditional muscular dystrophy models with ramifications for translational therapy development across the muscular dystrophies. The conference goal is to address the myomatrix in the context of normal development and disease states to probe, dissect and highlight matrix involvement in its capacity as mediator of signaling, satellite and stem cell niche, director of cell differentiation and interaction with both the sarcolemmal membrane and the neuromuscular junction. 2 key note addresses will focus on cardiac muscle matrix interactions and matrix implications beyond muscular dystrophy. The conference will lead to the construction of a myomatrix research roadmap, prioritizing both basic science and translational research inquiry and place a premium on discussion.

Conference Aims

Establish the current state of knowledge in different myomatrix research areas germane to the CMDs and to dystrophic pathology
Explore novel mechanisms, intersections and crosstalk of relevant mechanisms and perform comparative analysis across disease models
Design effective strategies and platforms to pursue treatment development for key aspects of CMD clinical pathology to drive future translational opportunities

Conference Deliverables

Develop myomatrix roadmap delineating intersecting pathways and themes that define myomatrix in development, in health and diseased states
Define key areas of future myomatrix basic and translational research focus
Develop collaboration and synergy between existing projects

Conference Logistics

Click here to view Logistics in PDF
Conference location: University of Reno, Nevada, USA
Conference Dates: April 22-24th, 2012
Accommodation: Peppermill Resort, Spas & Casino, Reno, Nevada
Conference participant cap: 75 participants
Conference registration fee: $500.00 USD for clinicians and PhD, $250.00 USD for post-doctoral candidates and graduate students

Registration deadline: March 15th, 2012
Participation confirmed by: March 20th, 2012 with payment requested by April 1st

Registrants are asked to provide a brief explanation of conference relevance to their current research and planned conference contribution. Applications will be reviewed by Organizing Committee and confirmed participants notified by February 1st, 2012, selected to ensure diverse representation across key myomatrix themes. Conference registration upon confirmation includes accommodation, shuttle to and from airport and meals with confirmed participants to cover cost of their travel. Confirmed participants encouraged to submit a poster highlighting current work and publications with posters shipped to UNR. Poster competition award for top 2 posters. Register below.

Conference Organizing Committee

Dean Burkin, PhD (PI), Associate Professor University of Nevada, Reno
Anne Rutkowski, MD, Cure CMD Chairman and Kaiser SCPMG Clinical Investigator
Carsten Bonnemann, MD, Senior Investigator NINDS, Director of Neuromuscular and Neurogenetic Disorders of Childhood Section (NNDCS)
Kanneboyina Nagaraju, DVM, PhD, Associate Professor of Pediatrics and Director of Murine Drug Testing Facility, Children’s National Medical Center
Gabrielle Kardon, PhD, Associate Professor, Human Genetics, University of Utah

Register for Conference

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Post Doctoral Awards

Deadline: February 1st, 2012
Awards announced: March 1st, 2012

As a commitment to the growing field of CMD Myomatrix research, the conference offers 5 international post-doctoral awards. Postdoctoral and qualified graduate students can apply by sending completed application to anne.rutkowski@curecmd.org. Award covers airfare (30 day advance purchase, economy class) and accommodation. Award recipients required to submit a poster during the poster session.

Post-Doctoral Awards Application