Various researchers presented their insights and findings at the conference. Dr. Paula Cannon and Dr. Gero Hütter (keynotes on Sept. 22), for example, independently have shown that T4 helper cells that normally serve as a reservoir for the HI virus, can be immunized against HIV invasion if the CCR5 co-receptor necessary for this process is missing or eliminated. Professor Zimmermann, Professor Sumi and Dr. Petersen (keynotes on Sept 23) focus on tissue engineering. This term refers to procedures to regenerate damaged tissue with the aid of stem cells from the patient’s own body. It may thus be possible in the future to grow entire organs in the lab for transplantation. 

In addition to the lectures, conference participants could participate in sessions and workshops to present their own research and enhance their practical skills. Moreover, they could build valuable contacts with fellow students, companies, research groups and professors. An interactive workshop on career planning has been held in cooperation with the Charité and other renowned research institutes, and the aid organization “Doctors Without Borders” provided information about its work and activities.

The ESC was founded by medical students in 1989 with the goal of improving the scientific exchange between East and West after reunification and promoting the international networking of biomedical sciences, faculties and students. The Schering Stiftung supported the conference because it makes an important contribution to promoting excellent young scientists and helping them build international networks.