From May 24-25, 2024, the Estonian University of Life Sciences in Tartu, Estonia, hosted the 8th Annual Extracellular Vesicles Conference, themed “Unlocking the Potential of Extracellular Vesicles in One Health, Food, and Feed.” After the hands-on training school on extracellular vesicles, this important event provided a smooth continuation for further lectures and poster presentations.
Alireza Fazeli addressed the conclusion of the COMBIVET project by stating, "COMBIVET, being focused on comparative medicine, has exceeded the boundaries we initially set for it, partly due to the flexibility of the program. COMBIVET has led to various new initiatives and collaborations."
The conference as of every year, attracted a diverse group of participants and expert speakers from various corners of the globe, including Italy, Finland, Sweden, Spain, Australia, and the Netherlands. All sharing one thing in common: extracellular vesicles (EVs) in their research field. The sessions were designed to foster an
exchange of innovative ideas and to discuss cutting-edge advances in the extracellular vesicles field across three focused areas:
1. Host-Pathogen Interaction & Biomarker Discovery
2. Food, Feed, and Health
3. Interplay of Extracellular Vesicles in Non-Communicable Diseases, Cancer, and Reproductive Health
The lecturers included Antonio Marcilla, who discussed EVs in host-helminth interactions; Metka Lenassi, exploring the role of EVs in HIV-pathogen interactions; and Harinda Rajapaksha, who offered perspectives on cloud computing for life science research. Additional insights came from Janne Leivo on EV glycosylations as cancer biomarkers, Karol Mierzejewski on the impact of microplastics mediated by EVs, and many others who contributed their unique expertise to the multifaceted discussions.
In addition, there were vibrant poster sessions, where students and early researchers had the opportunity to present their findings. These sessions not only fostered a dynamic exchange of ideas but also highlighted the promising research being conducted by the next generation of scientists in the field of EVs.
The COMBIVET and OH-Boost joint annual Conference 2024 was made possible through the support of various sponsors such as Nova Natura, Particle Metrix, BGI Genomics, Cyberarch and Lanlab Ltd.
We also extend our gratitude to the dedicated members of our organizing committee, the speakers, lecturers, and all attendees whose enthusiasm and engagement have made this event a cornerstone of academic and professional development in the field of extracellular vesicles. Your contributions are deeply valued, and we look forward to continuing these fruitful collaborations in future endeavors.
You can go to OH-Boost (OH-Boost.eu) or COMBIVET webpage to download the abstract books.
The recordings will be available on OH-Boost YouTube video soon