Report on the Annual Symposium of the Brain connectivity and neurodegenerative diseases strategic priority area

The “Brain connectivity and neurodegenerative diseases” strategic priority area, headed by Chiara Zurzolo and Uwe Maskos, is composed of 31 Institut Pasteur entities, including the Hearing Institute (IdA). Each year, it organizes a symposium to highlight the expertise of its member groups in a given subject of general interest. This year, it took place on November 25 in the Duclaux lecture hall. The topic chosen was "Brain in the Body," highlighting the role of factors outside the brain on neural function and physiology.

A total of 183 participants filled the lecture hall, where three invited speakers gave the keynotes. These were Tony Wyss-Coray from Stanford, Tom Schwarz from Harvard, and Jane Foster from Texas Southwestern.

The keynotes were complemented by short talks from 25 members of the strategic priority area. The Duclaux lecture hall was bustling throughout the day, animated by lively discussions during the outstanding keynote lectures and oral presentations.

The discussions continued around a poster session that allowed the younger members of the strategic priority area to highlight their work, showcasing the enthusiasm and excellence of so many young researchers (47 posters).

The long day ended with exchanges over drinks, and the strong wish to continue working together. This success underscores the wishes and need to continue exploring the brain's intricate interplay with the body. By investigating its functions and dysfunctions through our interdisciplinary expertise and diverse perspectives, the Institut Pasteur is uniquely positioned to address these complex challenges.

The efficient organization was in the hands of Sandra Corre from SPAIS, with Katja Heuer, Mathis Fleury, Francesca Palese and Bruno Teste.

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