June 8-10, 2011
Sponsor/Co-Sponsor(s)
Program in Developmental Endocrinology and Genetics (PDEGEN), Division of Intramural Research (DIR), NICHD
Location
Building 60 (The Cloisters), NIH Main Campus; Bethesda, Maryland
Purpose
Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are unique molecules that bind to cyclic Adenosine Monophosphate (cAMP), which is involved in multiple biochemical processes, such as the regulation of metabolism, and Guanosine Monophosphate (GMP), which is found in RNA. Some of the most successful drugs on the market today affect PDE function. Recently, mutations in PDE genes were identified in human genetic diseases, and researchers found that PDEs had a potential role in predisposition to tumors and/or cancer. Studies of PDEs in mouse models point to a variety of developmental effects, from heart function to reproduction. This workshop aims to:
- Bring together PDE and cAMP experts from a variety of disciplines, including: endocrinology, pharmacology and biochemistry, dietary medicine, reproductive science, and cancer.
- Discuss refocusing research on PDEs to a more translational approach , and identify genetic components of the activity of PDEs that may affect disease susceptibility in many systems.
- Identify pharmacological and/or dietary supplement compounds that could enhance or inhibit activity in tissues that were not known previously to be affected.
Attendance at the workshop is by invitation only.
Contact
Dr. Constantine Stratakis, PDEGEN, DIR, NICHD
Tel: 301-402-1998
E-mail: stratakc@mail.nih.gov