Innate immune cells (neutrophils, macrophages, dendritic cells) play an essential role in host defense and inflammation. The theme of this meeting is Innate Immune Cell:Pathogen Interactions. Topics will cover the regulation and molecular basis of the function of these cells with a focus on the impact of their interaction with microorganisms, microbial products, and cytokines. The spectrum of phagocyte function, from diapedisis to phagocytosis and killing, as well as the role of innate immune cell responses to infection in the etiology of acute and chronic diseases, will be included. Invited speakers will be a mixture of leaders in the field and younger scientists, with an emphasis on the latest, most exciting findings. In addition to the invited lectures, there will be poster sessions for attendees to present and discuss their work, which are also a very important component of the meeting. There are slots in the program for late-breaking presentations and shorter talks, which will be selected from abstracts submitted for the poster sessions. We encourage early application for maximum consideration. There will be ample time for discussions and informal interactions among conferees.

We encourage the application and attendance of scientists from a diversity of backgrounds and experience. In particular, women, minorities and younger scientists in the early stages of their careers should consider application, and this Conference has funds to help support registration and travel for these attendees. For those scientists with disabilities, we also have funds to help support any extra costs associated with any special travel arrangements. Please contact the Chair to request consideration for these funds.