Dynamics and Encoding in Cell Signaling

About This Grant

PROJECT SUMMARY Cell communication research is a growing field that is complimentary to, but distinct from, traditional signal trans- duction fields. This emerging field emphasizes the spatiotemporal aspects of cell communication and quantitative understanding of how information transmission and processing occurs. A central focus on the field is to under- stand exactly what distinguishes “normal” and “disease” cell signaling behavior in terms of spatial and temporal details. There are at least 80 labs worldwide that use live cell imaging, genetically encoded biosensors, compu- tational image analysis, and mathematical models to determine modern quantitative concepts for cell communi- cation. In 2024 we held the inaugural Signaling Dynamics and Encoding conference. The conference was cre- ated to provide scientists in the field with the opportunity for cross-fertilization of shared higher-level concepts across the many pathways studied in the field, including immune signaling, receptor-mediated signal transduc- tion, gene expression, cell cycle, and metabolic signaling pathways. The conference was a success, attracting 136 scientists from around the world, including over 60 PIs and 57 trainees. To continue the success of this conference, we are planning a 2nd Signaling Dynamics and Encoding FASEB Scientific Research Conference on June 21-25, in Nashville Tennessee. We will bring together an international community in the cell communication field. To accomplish this, we aim to (1) provide structure for an emerging research field by establishing and building relationships and collaborations between senior scientists and early career researchers through net- working opportunities and a speaker lineup including both early career researchers and established leaders. This includes 20 trainee talks over the course of the conference. Lightening talks will highlight trainee posters and encourage interactions and networking at poster sessions between trainees and established investigators. We aim to (2) provide trainees with knowledge, networks, and mentors for career opportunities through meetings and networking opportunities with established researchers in both industry and academia. This first iteration of the meeting will aim to (3) create new models by connecting researchers interested in related concepts across biologically different signaling and regulatory systems, providing opportunities for researchers to think outside the typical boundaries of their work and find new insights from colleagues in parallel fields. We will also aim to (4) promote access to new image analysis and modeling technologies by emphasizing the latest technical ad- vances in these areas. Altogether, the Dynamics and Encoding in Cell Signaling FASEB Scientific Research Conference provides a much needed and exciting forum for the cell communication field and will enable cross- disciplinary collaborations and insights into cell function and behavior that is not currently possible.