Axonal Degeneration and Regeneration 2022

Neurons are a diverse class of cells, characterized by specialized polarized morphologies, which are essential for their functions. Neurons are also the largest known cells, with processes ranging from millimeters to centimeters, and axons that can reach meters in mammals. This combination of specialized morphology with extreme length imposes a need for signaling within and between neuronal compartments and the deployment of sophisticated mechanisms to allow transmission of data to its final destination. Thus, both correct long-range signaling from the periphery and maintenance of the axonal network are paramount to neuronal function and survival. Indeed, many neurodegenerative diseases display a “dying back” phenomenon, whereby more distant axonal segments are the first to be affected in the development of the disease.

This workshop aims to explore the mechanisms leading to neuronal dysfunction and degeneration, and address how neurons can react to injury by promoting a regenerative program, by reuniting leading researchers in the field of axonal degeneration/regeneration to paint an updated picture of the field and explore new discoveries and methodologies with the goal of deepening our understanding of these subjects.