24th Annual Meeting of the PanAmerican Society for Pigment Cell Research: “Harnessing the Power of Scientific Discoveries in Pigment Cell Research"

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ABSTRACT The 2021 Annual Meeting of the Pan-American Society for Pigment Cell Research (PASPCR), entitled, “Harnessing the power of scientific discoveries in pigment cell research” will be held in Lexington, Kentucky, September 22-25, 2021. Founded in 1988 and made up of approximately 100 members, the PASPCR unites clinicians, developmental biologists, biochemists, immunologists, cell biologists, photobiologists and chemists in the study of pigmentation, melanin and melanocytes. The overall objective of PASPCR 2021 is to increase our knowledge of the normal and abnormal chemistry, biology, and photobiology of the melanocyte across species and its contribution to human health and disease. Building on the success of partnering with the American Society for Photobiology (ASP) at our last meeting, we are planning a joint plenary session focused on UV damage and repair to stimulate interaction between PASPCR and ASP investigators. In addition, we are taking advantage of the robust equine research being done at UK by partnering with the Gluck Equine Research Center (UK) to consider the horse as a model for pigment cell biology and melanoma in two plenary sessions. The goals of the meeting are to (1) highlight recent advances in melanin structure and analysis across species, in pigment cell response to light and other environmental stimuli, and in genome-level understanding of melanocyte function and transformation using relevant animal models and human tissue, (2) bring together investigators and clinicians with strong interests in photoprotection, melanocyte developmental and stem cell biology and health disparities in pigmentary disease, and (3) provide mentorship to young investigators with a specific focus on identifying and overcoming career barriers of women and underrepresented minorities. We have emphasized the importance of diversity, inclusivity and equity (DEI) with two dedicated panel discussions and by inviting faculty from the Skin of Color Society to our meeting. In response to requests by trainees and young investigators, we are incorporating a panel discussion focused on pigment cell research in the Industry setting. We have ensured meaningful inclusion of young investigators, women, and underrepresented minorities among the invited speakers and leadership of PASPCR 2021. The meeting also features a "Mentorship Mixer" that provides a structured mechanism for students and trainees to obtain scientific and career guidance from well-established scientists. Finally, we are planning a hybrid virtual online/live format with suitable physical distancing measures in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to maximize participation in the meeting. Led by a strong organizational team, PASPCR 2021 promises to be a conference of lasting impact for the pigment cell biology community.