CONFERENCE ANNOUNCEMENT AND CALL FOR SPEAKER PROPOSALS 

Inaugural
Higher-Order Protein Structure
Characterization and Prediction
August 20-21 

Determining the biomolecular structure of proteins is of high importance in drug development. Biophysical properties such as protein dynamics, conformation, self-association, aggregation and particulate formation affect the quality attributes of protein therapeutics.  Detailed knowledge and characterization of the underlying proteins and their behavior thus enables assessment of how protein structure is affected by manufacturing, storage, handling and delivery; and, in turn, allows researchers to better determine the impact on safety and efficacy. We are seeking case studies and stories, especially unpublished and innovative work, on the use of the appropriate biophysical method, method development and qualification to characterize the quality attributes at different stages of the product lifecycle.

Topics to be discussed include: 

• Higher-order protein structure methods overview
• Assessing relevant technologies for higher-order protein structure characterization and prediction
• Development, qualification, and implementation of biophysical methods
• Utility of spectroscopic methods in detecting changes in product quality of biotherapeutics
• Applications of circular dichroism (CD) for structural analysis of proteins
• Qualification of FTIR spectroscopic method for protein secondary structural analysis
• Hydrogen exchange mass spectrometry (HDX) for studying protein structure and dynamics
• Advances in ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)  for higher order structure analysis
• Utility of differential scanning calorimetry in assessing protein structure and stability
• Application of HOS analysis: What are the capabilities and limitations of methods and what can it deliver?
• Understanding the impact of process, formulation, and device changes on protein structure and stability
• Establishing acceptance criteria for biophysical methods
• Regulatory considerations and expectations on Higher Order Structure
• Linking various product attribute structures to biological function through a combination of HOS and bioassay techniques
• Higher Order Structure analysis: Challenges in the different phases of development
• Sub-visible particle analysis and characterization
• Understanding protein conformation, protein folding, and molecular forces involved in protein structure and function

In addition, immediately following the “Higher-Order Protein Structure” (Monday-Tuesday) conference will be a sister conference focusing on “High-Concentration Protein Formulations” (Wednesday-Thursday). Attendees are encouraged to stay for the entire event in order to attend all sessions.

To submit a proposal for consideration, please click here to submit your proposal. We are especially interested in novel and practical case studies, and unpublished work.

Deadline for submission: February 17, 2012 

All proposals are subject to review by the Scientific Advisory Committee to ensure the overall quality of the conference program. 

Please note that due to limited speaking slots, preference will be given to abstracts from those within pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies, regulators and those from academic centers. Additionally, as per CHI policy, a select number of vendors/consultants who provide products and services to these biopharmaceutical companies are offered opportunities for podium presentation slots based on a variety of Corporate Sponsorships.

For questions or suggestions about the meeting, please contact:
Micah Lieberman
Conference Director
Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI)
Phone: 541-482-4709
E-mail:  mlieberman@healthtech.com 

For partnering and sponsorship information, please contact:
Suzanne Carroll
Business Development Manager
Cambridge Healthtech Institute (CHI)
Phone: 781-972-5452
E-mail:  scarroll@healthtech.com