Ο εμβολιασμός κατά του RSV στην εγκυμοσύνη μείωσε τον κίνδυνο νοσηλείας στα βρέφη κατά 70% [μελέτη]

About the Practical CoursePangenomics has emerged as a transformative paradigm in genomics, moving from single linear reference genomes to pangenomesthat capture the full spectrum of genetic variation within species. Recent breakthroughs include the completion of the human pangenome reference by the Human Pangenome Reference Consortium (HPRC), revealing millions of previously hidden variants and structural variations that traditional approaches missed. Advanced graph-based representations now enable comprehensive analysis of complex genomic regions, including highly variable immune loci and centromeres.Key technological advances include improved algorithms for pangenome construction (PGGB, WFMASH, IMPG), sophisticated visualization tools (ODGI), and novel genotyping methods from graph references (PanGenie, POVU). Course organizers and instructors contributed directly to HPRC, developing these cutting-edge methodologies and software. These advances are transforming genome evolution, population genetics, and disease research across diverse organisms.This EMBO Practical Course addresses a critical gap in computational biology training. While pangenomics tools are rapidly advancing, researchers lack comprehensive hands-on experience with these specialized methods.This EMBO Practical Course uniquely combines theoretical foundations with practical implementation across the entire pangenomics workflow—from graph construction through variant analysis. By training the next generation of computational biologists in these cutting-edge approaches, we will accelerate the adoption of pangenomics methods and enable more complete characterization of genetic diversity in research worldwide.Artwork by BirdcapAbout EMBO Courses and WorkshopsEMBO Courses and Workshops are selected for their excellent scientific quality and timelines, provision of good networking activities for all participants and speaker gender diversity (at least 40% of speakers must be from the underrepresented gender).Organisers are encouraged to implement measures to make the meeting environmentally more sustainable.

Dear friends and colleagues,We are happy to announce the seventh course to be held for the first time in Barcelona, Spain, in June 2026. The increasing endovascular treatment options and practice forces neurosurgeons to be informed about these treatment strategies, since they take part in the decision process whether their patients should undergo endovascular or open surgical treatment.Only a small part of the neurosurgical community in Europe has practical experience in neuroendovascular treatment strategies. Young Neurosurgeons especially lack insights into the chances and challenges of endovascular therapies, which hampers their objective assessment skills for neurovascular diseases. A better understanding of endovascular therapies will improve the competence of Neurosurgeons. This course aims at young neurosurgeons that wish to achieve a basic understanding of endovascular treatment, including their strengths and pitfalls.The international faculty consists of dual-trained neurosurgeons as well as neurointerventional specialists that will be happy to provide insights into their endovascular activities and experiences.Course DirectorRamon Torné

Viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens pose a serious threat to human health, requiring a coordinated response from the innate and adaptive immune systems. Our immune system relies on pathogen receptors and signaling pathways to initiate defense through secreted effector molecules and cell-mediated responses. Additionally, cell-autonomous immunity—an evolutionarily conserved mechanism enabling non-immune cells to independently combat infections—serves as a crucial first line of defense, preserving cellular integrity against diverse pathogens. However, improper activation of these pathways leads to immunopathology and ineffective antimicrobial responses, as observed in certain disorders with immune-related gene mutations.Recent advances in genetic screening, single-cell sequencing, and high-resolution live-cell imaging have identified novel receptors, signaling hubs, regulatory mechanisms, and post-translational modifications that shape pathogen defense. This EMBO Workshop will unite experts in molecular and cellular immunology, virology, microbiology, and cell signaling to discuss cutting-edge discoveries in antimicrobial defense. Building on the success of three previous highly rated meetings, the 2026 edition will continue fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among leading scientists. Participants from diverse career stages and scientific backgrounds will have the opportunity to present their work in formats that encourage scientific exchange and collaboration. Dedicated sessions that incorporate multiple formats and venues will encourage networking among early career scientists, established experts, and journal editors. Through interdisciplinary discussions and presentations, this EMBO Workshop aims to deepen our understanding of immune mechanisms and inspire new research directions in the field.

About the CongressThe 2026 Annual Congress of the European Association for Cancer Research (EACR 2026) is a four day congress dedicated to basic, preclinical and translational cancer research across a wide breadth of topics. It will highlight the latest research and bring together the cancer research community to inspire innovation and build knowledge, connections and collaborations.The European Association for Cancer Research (EACR) is a registered charity and global scientific community dedicated to the advancement of cancer research. We have been bringing cancer researchers together at our congress and conferences since 1968.Click here to find out more about the EACR and join as a memberWhy attend?With a dynamic scientific programme and world renowned speakers, we are proud to invite you to Europe’s leading cancer research conference. But don’t just take our word for it...Here's what a few of previous years' participants had to say:"Attending the EACR Congress is crucial for staying updated on the latest in cancer research, networking with global experts, fostering impactful collaborations, and contributing to the advancement of oncology.""One of my personal highlights was the opportunity to attend high-level talks from leading experts in different fields of cancer research. The diversity of topics and the scientific quality of the presentations were outstanding.""The speakers were engaging and inspiring, and the topics they presented were both current and thought-provoking. There were plenty of interesting posters covering a wide range of research areas, which made exploring the poster sessions truly exciting.""The entire event was also incredibly well organised – everything ran smoothly, and the atmosphere was very welcoming and professional. Overall, it was a great experience that left me feeling motivated and full of new ideas.""The diversity of topics and the depth of knowledge shared by the speakers expanded my scientific understanding. The Congress brought together a highly specialized and collaborative scientific community.""The Congress had a great mix of cutting-edge science, inspiring talks from top researchers, and the atmosphere was engaging and collaborative. It was also exciting to see the latest technologies and meet people from different areas in the cancer research field. A very worthwhile experience!"