Chaired By: Navdeep S. Chandel (Northwestern University), Karen Vousden (Francis Crick Institute), Celeste Simon (University of Pennsylvania)

Oxidation-reduction (redox) reactions are responsible for the transfer of electrons among molecules and are crucial for life processes such as energy production, cellular signaling and the regulation of cellular stress. Central to understanding redox biology are molecules like reactive oxygen species (ROS), nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), and glutathione (GSH), which play significant roles in maintaining cellular health and contribute to disease pathogenesis. ROS are chemically reactive molecules containing oxygen, produced naturally within biological systems. They regulate a variety of cellular functions, including signal transduction, immune responses, and cellular homeostasis. However, an excessive accumulation of ROS leads to oxidative stress, which can damage cells and tissues by oxidizing lipids, proteins, and DNA. Counterbalancing the detrimental effects of ROS, the body utilizes several antioxidant mechanisms that, when deregulated, are linked to various oxidative-stress associated conditions such as neurodegenerative disease, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and the general process of aging.

The meeting will focus on advances in our understanding the intricate roles and interactions of ROS, NAD, and GSH within the framework of redox biology, not only highlighting their importance in health and disease but also underscoring the potential of therapeutic interventions that aim to balance these crucial molecules. Such strategies hold the promise of preventing and treating a diverse array of diseases, particularly those associated with aging and oxidative stress.

Key Sessions

•    Understand the generation, biological roles and dual nature of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cellular signaling, gene expression and cell death.
•    Examine the protective mechanisms of antioxidants such as glutathione (GSH) in maintaining cellular redox homeostasis and preventing oxidative damage.
•    Determine the biosynthesis and function of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) in ATP production, DNA repair and stress responses.
•    Explore the contribution and therapeutic potential of oxidative stress to diseases like cancer and neurodegenerative disorders.
•    Assess strategies for enhancing NAD to treat age-associated diseases.

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