The 18th International Symposium on Carotenoids will see the best and brightest scientists in academia, government and industry come together to share and raise public awareness of the latest research and developments in carotenoids.
A principal objective of the ICS is to promote the education of young scientists and the public about the importance of carotenoids as naturally occurring pigments and essential components present in virtually every living organism.
The ICS was founded in 2001, 35 years after the first symposium in 1966, to promote and encourage research and study in all areas of carotenoid science.
The society now offers a thriving worldwide interdisciplinary community for researchers studying in the field. Celebrating its half century mark, the International Symposium on Carotenoids is now the official symposium of the ICS.
Introduced for the first time this year is the conference’s Young Investigators Forum, which will provide a platform for researchers commencing their studies in the field to present their work and collaborate with senior scientists.
Nearly 300 delegates from all over the world will attend this year’s symposium and hear from almost 100 speakers on science critical to key industries today.
Highlights will be ten keynote lectures covering the relevant topics in carotenoid research, from nutrition and health, analytics and synthesis, plant genetics and establishment of Dietary Reference Intakes for individuals incorporating perspectives based on genetic polymorphisms.
Lisa Renzi Hammond, Assistant Professor, and Billy Hammond, Professor at the University of Georgia, will present neuroimaging data demonstrating that lutein and zeaxanthin supplementation is capable of influencing neural connectivity.
Dr James Stringham, Department of Psychology at the University of Georgia, will discuss findings from his recent study that found dietary supplementation with the carotenoids, lutein, zeaxanthin, and meso-zeaxanthin, increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which may support improved memory and cognitive performance.
Martha Neuringer, Professor at Oregon Health & Science University, will present her latest findings through her research with the Center for Nutrition Learning and Memory, and confirms: "Using the best accepted model of human brain development, our novel data indicates that an infant formula containing lutein and natural vitamin E, rather than synthetic vitamin E alone, results in brain functional connectivity closer to that of breastmilk."
"As this method measures the maturity of connections between and amongst brain systems, these findings move us closer to understanding how these important and exciting brain nutrients function in the developing brain."
John Landrum, President of the ICS, said of the Symposium: “The carotenoid research community continues to grow and thrive, and this year’s event will be another great opportunity for our community to engage and share ideas and expertise, as well as mentoring and supporting younger scientists working with and studying carotenoids."
"They are the future of this field. The ICS symposia are also an important platform for us to enhance public awareness of the nature and function of carotenoids, and it is vital that new research and developments are brought into focus."
"Switzerland has historically played a significant role in carotenoid research and is one of the leading players in industrial production and formulation of key carotenoids, so it’s the perfect choice for the 2017 Symposium. We look forward to welcoming old friends and new at the event, and the sharing of research and expertise from the brightest minds in this field.”
