Mechanistic Insights into Development, Evolution, and Disease

Neural crest cells and cranial placodes share evolutionary and embryological origins and are of fundamental importance to vertebrate development, evolution, disease, and regeneration. Together, they form the cranial sensory ganglia, but individually they each give rise to an incredibly diverse array of cell types and tissues. Defects in neural crest cell and cranial placode development underlie a broad range of birth defects and disorders including cancer, sensory deficits, and abnormal physiological function in juveniles and adults. This conference brings together leading researchers working on all aspects of neural crest cell and cranial placode biology. The conference also offers the unique opportunity to form new collaborations, mentor junior scientists, and build professional networks in a supportive environment. The goals of the conference are to accelerate the exchange of information across different model systems, promote technological innovations, advance our knowledge of neural crest cells and cranial placodes at genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic levels, and further our understanding of the pathogenesis of congenital disorders.