Many human diseases, both acquired and inherited, involve misfolding or mis-trafficking of proteins. The associated cellular and organismal dysfunction can result from both aggregation of misfolded proteins within cells and from a lack of delivery of misfolded proteins to target membranes. Many such disease processes affect the kidney; these include disorders as diverse as amyloidosis, congenital nephritic syndrome, diabetes insipidus, salt wasting disorders, and cystic fibrosis. Further, molecular stress, such as occurs during ischemia and reperfusion or oxidative stress, can elicit the unfolded protein response, contributing to renal pathology. This two-day conference is designed to bring renowned experts in fields of protein structure, folding, and cellular trafficking together with experts on novel approaches to therapy and on renal disorders. The conference will provide a unique opportunity for young and experienced basic and clinical scientists to interact and learn from each other, in a translational and transformational manner. Our general goal is to provide partial support for young scientists attending the annual meeting of the American Society of Nephrology to also attend this two-day conference, focusing on a single research area. Attendance of young scientists insures that the information will be translated into future studies that elucidate the role of disorders of protein folding in kidney diseases and emphasizes potential approaches to their treatment. ? ? ?
The American Society of Nephrology holds a meeting each year at which experts in kidney research and clinical care gather from around the world for four days to present their studies on the latest aspects of kidney disease and treatment. During the two days immediately prior to that annual meeting, the ASN sponsors a basic science conference for a smaller audience focused on a specific area of current interest to the kidney research community. For 2008, this two-day conference will be """""""" Human Disorders of Protein Processing: Mechanisms, Consequences &Therapeutic Implications"""""""" and is designed to bring together world experts in the related area with young scientists interested specifically in kidney-related research. With this format, members of the kidney research community will be exposed to the latest issues pertinent to protein processing within cells, protein misfolding, disease processes that involve misfolding, and potential therapeutic strategies. This conference is also intended to foster future collaborations with scientists who are recognized experts in the field. This grant application asks for partial financial assistance with the costs of registration and lodging of junior scientists who wish to attend this conference. Our goal is to provide earmarked support for young scientists so that they can obtain the knowledge necessary to incorporate studies related to protein misfolding in their research, pertinent to treatment of patients with kidney diseases.
