California Meeting on Monomers of Lipids

In the vibrant city of Long Beach, California, scientists from around the globe will gather for the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology’s Deuel Conference on Monomers of Lipids. Set to take place from January 21 to 24, 2025, this conference will delve into cutting-edge research on the role of Monomers of Lipids in various organ systems. Organized by professionals from both industry and academia, the event aims to provide a platform for researchers focusing on Monomers of Lipids to explore the intersections of their diverse work.

Meet the Organizers

Sarah Cohen: Sarah Cohen, an assistant professor of cell biology and physiology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, leads a lab dedicated to understanding how lipids move within and between cells. Using advanced microscopy techniques, Cohen investigates lipid trafficking defects and their contributions to metabolic and neurodegenerative diseases. Her commitment to Monomers of Lipids research is reflected in accolades such as the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Collaborative Pairs Award and the Zeiss Microscopy Featured Researcher.

Philipp Scherer: Philipp Scherer, a professor of medicine and director of the Touchstone Diabetes Center at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, has a profound interest in adipose tissue and its roles in disease. Renowned for discovering the hormone adiponectin, Scherer’s research delves into the physiological functions of adipose tissue. His accolades include awards from American, European, and Asian diabetes research organizations, making him a distinguished figure in the field.

Insights into Research and Lipid Exploration

Sarah Cohen’s Lipid Journey

Cohen’s journey into lipid research began during her postdoctoral work, where her focus shifted from studying viruses to exploring organelle biogenesis and turnover. Intrigued by a review on lipid droplets by Tobias Walther and Bob Farese, Cohen used advanced imaging tools to investigate lipid droplet organelle dynamics. Her lab’s recent endeavors include studying lipid metabolism and trafficking in neurodegenerative diseases.

Philipp Scherer’s Cellular Perspective

Scherer’s interest in Monomers of Lipids developed during his Ph.D. research on mitochondrial protein import. Transitioning to cellular trafficking during his postdoc, he focused on the cellular release of substances by adipocytes. Over the years, Scherer’s lab has delved into interorgan communication via secretory proteins and signaling lipids, emphasizing their crucial roles in metabolism.

Deuel Meeting: A Unique Perspective

Conference Impressions

Both Cohen and Scherer express admiration for the Deuel meeting. Cohen attended a session in Monterrey, California, describing it as refreshing due to its focused discussions on lipids in various physiological and disease contexts. Scherer, having served on the Deuel conference board, emphasizes its uniqueness, maintaining its status as the most important lipid meeting with a small and informal setting that encourages discussions.

Diversity and Inclusivity

For the 2025 meeting on Monomers of Lipids, Cohen and Scherer emphasize the importance of diversity among speakers, not only in topics but also in terms of geography, gender, race, and ethnicity. They encourage trainees to submit abstracts, fostering an environment where everyone, regardless of background, can actively participate and engage.

The 2025 Meeting on Monomers of Lipids

Thematic Organization

To create a cohesive structure for the conference, Cohen and Scherer decided on an organ-centric approach. Five sessions are dedicated to major organ systems – liver and fat tissue, kidney, heart, brain, and the gastrointestinal tract. This organization aims to explore lipid metabolism at both cellular and systemic levels, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of lipids in diverse physiological contexts.

Bridging Academia and Industry

Recognizing the continuum from basic research to pharmacological applications, Cohen and Scherer welcome industry speakers. By doing so, they hope to bridge the gap between academic elucidations of mechanisms and practical applications in the industry, creating a well-rounded discourse.

Exploring Hot Topics in Monomers of Lipids

Lipotoxicity, Lipid Peroxidation, and Ferroptosis

Cohen expresses the desire to cover hot topics such as lipotoxicity, lipid peroxidation, and ferroptosis – a cell-death pathway dependent on lipid peroxidation. These areas hold significance in various physiological contexts, including cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.

Sterols, Lipid Rafts, and Novel Therapeutics

Scherer highlights the importance of covering sterols and lipid rafts, along with exploring novel therapeutics targeting lipid metabolism. The conference aims to provide insights into emerging areas that have the potential to shape the future of Monomers of Lipids research.

The Revolution in Obesity Pharmacology

With the ongoing revolution in obesity pharmacology, Cohen and Scherer aim to contextualize discussions around single, dual, and triagonists that induce significant weight loss. The basic science behind these drugs and their implications for lipid homeostasis will be explored, offering a holistic view of the current landscape.

The Collaborative Journey of Organizing

Working Together

Cohen and Scherer describe their collaboration as a pleasure, highlighting the balance of expertise each brings to the table. While Cohen brings her cell biology expertise, Scherer contributes his experience in organizing meetings. Together, they aim to create an exciting program that will leave attendees with fond memories and a wealth of knowledge.

A Program for Everyone

Their vision is to offer a program that caters to both the seasoned professionals and trainees. By maintaining a small and informal setting, they hope to facilitate interactions between speakers and attendees, fostering an environment where questions can be freely asked and ideas exchanged.

The Deuel Conference Legacy

As anticipation builds for the Deuel Conference on Monomers of Lipids in 2025, the organizers, Cohen and Scherer, envision an event that transcends disciplinary boundaries. With diverse speakers, thematic organization, and exploration of hot topics, the conference aims to be a melting pot of ideas and insights. Attendees can expect not only a wealth of knowledge but also an experience that lingers in their memories, contributing to the enduring legacy of the Deuel Conference on Lipids.

Harry Deuel: A Margarine Enthusiast

Before we wrap up, let’s take a moment to learn about Harry Deuel, the conference namesake, and his intriguing connection to margarine. Harry Deuel, a pioneer in lipid research, had a keen interest in the chemistry of margarine. His contributions to the field are commemorated through this conference, which continues to be a beacon for lipid researchers worldwide.