Mangosteen, Bacteria, Adhesion and Infection

Mangosteen today announced the dates for its inaugural meeting in West Africa

GRONINGEN, THE NETHERLANDS August 19, 2004 -- Mangosteen today announced the dates for its inaugural meeting, to be held in Senegal and The Gambia between the 16th and 24th of February 2005. Entitled ‘Bacterial Adhesion and Infection’, this unique two part meeting will focus on cutting-edge aspects of the study and interference with protein-carbohydrate interactions in the adhesion of bacterial pathogens. The scientific chair for the meeting will be Dr. Roland J. Pieters of Utrecht University’s Institute for Pharmaceutical Sciences in The Netherlands.

The meeting will address the topic of adhesion of bacterial pathogens to tissue surfaces, which is a prelude to infection. The molecular biology and structural characterization of important adhesion proteins will be discussed. Furthermore, multidisciplinary elements come from the work the design and chemical synthesis of adhesion inhibitors of various chemical nature, such as multivalent carbohydrates. Such inhibitors could be alternatives to resistance prone conventional antibiotics. The mix of representatives of various disciplines linked to the topic should be a good opportunity to initiate new collaborations and consortia.

ABOUT MANGOSTEEN

Mangosteen exists to facilitate regular series of scientific meetings and gatherings in a variety of fascinating yet all too often forgotten parts of the developing world. We work to foster high quality peer-peer interactions of all kinds - from international standard, cutting-edge conferences to smaller workshops and single company brain-storming sessions. Our territory is easily defined - groups of committed scientific professionals, discussing science - not at home, but in the developing world. Mangosteen's cost-effective approach ensures that these short business trips address several important issues - all by arranging for hard-working, highly educated individuals to take a cheap, enjoyable and enlightening break away from the daily routine of work. Not only will Meeting Participants be treated to a relaxed atmosphere and the time to discuss science in a stimulating new environment, but they will also be provided with rare opportunities to fully interact with scientists and students from institutes in the developing world. Ultimately, we believe that the increase in both the quality and quantity of scientific information exchanged between these two disparate communities will unquestionably prove invaluable to both. In the immediate term, any amount of recognition from the worldwide scientific community is welcomed by those working hard to improve daily life in the developing world. At the same time, visitors from the developed world are unlikely to feel anything other than greatly enriched by the experience. Not only enriched and informed, but relaxed and entertained, with fun and flexibility both being integral elements of our programmes.

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