Autophagy is a catabolic process that plays important roles in cell stress management and nutrient homeostasis. Following the landmark discoveries of the molecules controlling autophagy in yeast, genetic studies in multicellular organisms have revealed diverse roles for autophagy in development, physiology and in the etiology and pathogenesis of multiple disorders. Hence, interest in manipulating autophagy to treat human disease has rapidly intensified. The aims of this conference are to:

(1) gather diverse experts together with junior scientists and researchers new to this field in a setting that supports structured and casual interactions,

(2) promote exchange of cutting edge, innovative and unpublished science relevant to the roles of autophagy in healthy and pathologic cell contexts,

(3) expedite discoveries that advance mechanistic knowledge of autophagy and facilitate the discovery and development of novel therapeutic approaches for the treatment of diseases.

This symposium will explore the frontiers of autophagy research, with themes that focus on newly discovered molecules, pathways and mechanisms that specify forms of autophagy in development and disease.  Emphasis will be placed on how our emerging understanding of autophagy may influence disease and the development of therapies. Diverse interdisciplinary leaders of the autophagy field will gather with junior scientists to share discoveries and exchange ideas. The collegial atmosphere of this conference is designed to enable brainstorming and promote collaborations to advance our understanding of the basic mechanisms controlling autophagy, and how their dysregulation contributes to disease. Joint sessions with the meeting on Ubiquitin will foster new connections and collaborations that will mutually advance the ubiquitin and autophagy fields.