Carotenoids, Apocarotenoids and Retinoids: From Nature to Bedside

Carotenoids are isoprenoid pigments synthesized by plants and microorganisms, and are arguably the most ancient photoactive pigments on Earth. They have essential photoreception and photoprotection roles in photosynthesis and their cleavage products (apocarotenoids and retinoids) include signaling molecules important for plant and animal physiology. Dietary carotenoids act as vitamin A precursors, as modulators of visual and cognitive development and in the prevention of chronic disease. Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) remains an overwhelming public health issue worldwide, and carotenoid biofortification of staple crops is a proposed preventative strategy. Comparative research between plants and animals has revealed an impressive conservation of key enzymes that catalyze the various transformations of carotenoids and apocarotenoids. The 2018 Carotenoid GRC and GRS will address the full spectrum of carotenoid and apocarotenoid research "from nature to bedside", fostering interdisciplinarity and transfer of research methods between different experimental systems. The majority of the sessions will include speakers from different fields (microbial/plant biology and biomedical research) to enhance cross-fertilization and exchange of ideas. At least 30% of the talks will be selected from submitted abstracts, with an emphasis on early career scientists, and outstanding posters will be selected for short poster preview talks. A strong emphasis will be put on the presentation of unpublished research, extensive scientific discussion at the sessions and during free time and strict "off the record" policy.