Performing Department
(N/A)
Non Technical Summary
We propose to organize a workshop titled "Genomics and Epigenomics of Animal Aging" at the 32nd International Plant & Animal Genome Conference (PAG32) from January 10 to January 15, 2025. This workshop will bridge the gap between aging research and livestock genetics by showcasing cutting-edge research on the genomic and epigenomic mechanisms underlying aging in various animal species (beef and dairy cattle, dogs, medaka, killifish, and reptiles). Aging in livestock results in significant economic costs due to declining health, reduced reproductive capacity, and increased frailty, all of which impact agricultural productivity. By bringing together experts from both the aging research and agricultural communities, the workshop will foster interdisciplinary dialogue, encourage the integration of aging perspectives into livestock research, and explore new collaborative opportunities. The event will feature expert-led presentations, including those from junior scientists, and will provide valuable networking opportunities to enhance cross-disciplinary engagement. This workshop is expected to contribute to global food security and sustainable agriculture by promoting strategies to extend the productive lifespan of livestock. Immediate outcomes include the exchange of knowledge between the fields represented, while long-term benefits to agriculture may include the development of new strategies to improve animal lifespan. PAG32 is known for its strong mentoring and networking opportunities, where senior scientists participate in mentoring lunches and panel discussions with graduate students and postdocs. The conference is popular in the animal genomics community for fostering communication among researchers through a balanced mix of rigorous scientific exchanges and social activities that promote international collaboration.
Animal Health Component
50%
Research Effort Categories
Basic
50%
Applied
50%
Developmental
0%
Goals / Objectives
We propose organizing a workshop on "Genomics and Epigenomics of Animal Aging" at PAG32 (International Plant & Animal Genome Conference). PAG brings together individuals interested in genomics, and genome-phenome predictions, and there typically is a strong representation of individuals from the agriculture community. This workshop will invite presentations on the genomic and epigenomic mechanisms underlying aging in various animal species, with the express goal of engaging the livestock communities present at PAG. Livestock species represent a largely untapped resource for aging research, and conversely, aging and its molecular underpinnings are not typically considered by breeders and the agriculture community.Our workshop will discuss research that uncovers molecular signatures of aging and their functional consequences from genome to organism-level phenotypes of interest to agriculture.Given that genomics and epigenomics have roles in animal development, aging, and performance,the objective of the proposed workshop at PAG is to bring together leading researchers in the different fields of animal aging to share their knowledge and discuss the future directions of this rising field.
Project Methods
Recent meetings hosted by PD/coPDs on the same subject with dates and locationsThe following meeting workshops have been organized by the PD, Co-PD, and the organizing committee members:Genomics and Epigenomics of Aging Workshop; Plant & Animal Genome Meeting, San Diego, CA (2024)Comparative Biology of Aging, The Allied Genetics Conference (TAGC24), DC (2024)A proposed method for inviting conference speakersThe workshop will be held at the Plant and Animal Genome (PAG) meeting, San Diego, CA from January 10 - 15, 2025. Over the years, the number of attendees at the Animal Epigenetics workshop at PAG has reached 150. The number of invited speakers is limited to six. Although successful, a major problem in previous meetings was the lack of diversity of speakers, which in turn limited the scope of topics presented in the workshop. The goal of the proposed workshop is to allow a wider range of speakers, topics, and audiences, in order to maximize the opportunities for knowledge sharing and discussion of the future of genomics and epigenomics of animal aging. Therefore, we will invite internationally recognized leading scientists in the different fields of animal aging.The speakers were selected based on the following criteria:A. National and international recognition of their scientific achievementsB. Research is focused on different aspects of animal agingC. Represent different animal speciesD. Reflect the make-up of researchers in the field of genomics, epigenomics, and aging research in terms of career stage, geographical origin, institution type, etc.Method of Meeting AnnouncementTo ensure broad and effective dissemination of information about the conference, we will employ a multi-faceted approach leveraging both digital communication channels and targeted outreach within the relevant scientific communities.Email List of PAG Meetings: We will utilize the established and highly engaged email list associated with PAG (Plant and Animal Genome) meetings. This list includes past attendees, speakers, and participants who have expressed interest in plant and animal genome research. The email announcement will provide comprehensive details about the conference, including dates, venue, key themes, and registration information. By leveraging this well-curated list, we aim to reach a targeted audience already invested in the topics of the conference, thereby maximizing engagement and participation.ANGENMAP email listserv Group: In addition to the PAG email list, we will distribute information through the ANGENMAP email listserv group. This group is a vibrant and active online community that includes over 2,000 members from various fields related to animal genomics. Members of this group include researchers, academics, industry professionals, and other stakeholders who are likely to have a vested interest in the conference themes. The discussion group platform allows for dynamic interaction and the sharing of conference details, ensuring the information reaches a broad and relevant audience.Social Media Platform: To complement the targeted email and discussion group announcements, we will launch a comprehensive social media campaign. This will involve creating posts and updates on popular platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook. These posts will include eye-catching graphics, concise information about the conference, and links to the registration page. We will use relevant hashtags and tag influential figures in the field to increase visibility and reach.Website and Online Forums: Details of the conference will also be prominently displayed on the official conference website. The website will serve as a central hub for all information, including the conference agenda, speaker bios, and logistical details. Additionally, we will share information about the conference on online forums and communities related to genomics and bioinformatics, such as ResearchGate and relevant subreddit communities. These platforms allow for engagement with a broader scientific audience and provide opportunities for discussions and inquiries about the conference.Partnerships and Collaborations: We will collaborate with academic institutions, research organizations, and professional societies in the genomics field to further promote the conference. These partnerships will include cross-promotions through newsletters, bulletins, and official announcements on partner websites and social media channels. By leveraging these established networks, we aim to enhance the credibility and reach of the conference announcements.By employing this multifaceted approach, we aim to ensure that the announcement of the conference reaches a wide and relevant audience, fostering high levels of interest and participation. This strategy will help us attract a diverse group of attendees, ranging from experts to emerging researchers in the field of plant and animal genomics.