Autoimmunity and Tolerance (B1)

The endoderm gives rise to a vast array of highly specialized epithelial cell types lining the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts and contributes to associated organs such as thyroid, thymus, lungs, liver, biliary system and pancreas. Diseases affecting endodermal organ function impact hundreds of millions of people every year. Basic studies of endoderm organ development and postnatal function have revealed the molecular basis of human congenital diseases, have identified new regenerative pathways, and have made it possible to grow endoderm organ tissues in vitro. While endoderm organs vary in their form and function, there are many shared mechanisms that govern the development and homeostasis of these organs. However, nearly all research conference themes focus on individual organs (Lung, Pancreas, Liver, Intestines). The purpose of this Keystone Symposia meeting is to bring together researchers that span the different endoderm organ systems to compare and contrast molecular mechanisms, experimental approaches, and new approaches towards translating basic research. Each section of the meeting will explore the development, function and regeneration of endoderm organs and discuss how basic research has led to successful efforts in generating organ tissues from stem cells. Discussions will focus on how successful efforts with one organ might be translated to other organ systems.