National Cancer Institute (NCI) Symposium: Extracellular RNA Communication in the Immune System

Delivery Solutions for Immune Cells to Enable and Advance Cell-Based Therapy

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
Thermo Fisher Scientific

Presenter:

• Nektaria Andronikou, Staff Scientist, Cell Biology

Research within immunotherapy and immuno-oncology is accelerating at an unprecedented rate as positive results from CAR-T clinical trials are encouraging new collaborations and large investments. The major limiting step when working with hematopoietic cells, however, is genetic manipulation and this is hindering important advancements. Scientists are using lentiviral vectors, but production is very expensive and time consuming. We will show progress toward a new lentivirus production kit that is scalable and has significantly improved titers. Even though lentivirus is the customary method, there is still hesitation because an extensive safety profile is still being established and understood. That is why there is an immense interest in a delivery technology that will increase flexibility and improve delivery efficiencies. The Neon Electroporation system is an easily adaptable solution in which successful delivery of mRNA in primary T-cells has been shown to achieve greater than 75% efficiency. With minimal optimization, we will show how the Neon system can be used for immune cell-based applications. These technologies can be applied to help advance research within immunology, immunotherapy, and immuno-oncology.

Attune NxT Flow Cytometer with Automated Acquisition Sampler as a High Throughput Screening Tool – Multiplexed Flow Cytometry Used to Analyze Metabolic Activity and Assess Pharmaceutical Compound Toxicity

12:30 PM – 1:15 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
Thermo Fisher Scientific

Presenter:

• Quentin Low, Staff Scientist, Life Sciences Group, Thermo Fisher Scientific

Flow cytometry has recently emerged as a powerful HTS tool adding the benefits of single cell multiparametric analysis. We compared multiplex flow cytometer and single-read plate reader HTS platforms by screening drug compound libraries on Jurkat and Ramos cell lines. Cells were cultured under either normoxic (5%) or hyperoxic (19%) conditions grown in the presence of the Microdiscovery Discovery “Killer Plate” drug compound library under a series of time points (24, 48, or 72 hrs). The two oxygen levels simulate cellular oxygen conditions in either a tumor environment or normal cellular environment. Cells were assessed for membrane integrity and metabolic activity as an output for evaluating cellular viability. Results indicate that compound “hits” and potency differed in the screen, depending on cell type, the mechanistic readout, length of compound exposure, and mode of readout used to perform the HTS experiments.

Incorporating New Dyes to Simplify Panel Design: Accelerating Reagent Availability

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
BD Biosciences

Presenter:

• Jurg Rohrer, Director – Research and Development

Flow cytometry continues to be a critical tool for the analysis, characterization, and isolation of single cells from a heterogeneous cell population. The rapid introduction of dyes based on Sirigen technology has dramatically increased the total number of parameters that can be analyzed simultaneously from a single sample. Using these dyes coupled with recent advancements in flow cytometers, it is now possible to probe more than 28 different fluorescence parameters simultaneously, allowing for a much deeper biological understanding of a sample. However, in spite of these advancements, one of the major limitations to designing optimal multicolor panels is the unavailability of many reagents in these new fluorochromes. To address this need, BD Biosciences has launched a new product line that will give scientists immediate access to hundreds and eventually thousands of new antibody/polymer-based dye combinations. In this workshop we will discuss how these quality reagents will enable easier panel design, resulting in robust high content panels that will generate quality data to drive ever deeper scientific discoveries. For Research Use Only. Not for use in diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.

The Power of Immune Responses and Potential of Antibody Based Approaches in Regenerative Medicine

11:15 AM – 12:00 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
Thermo Fisher Scientific

Presenters:

• Suresh Jivan Gadher, Thermo Fisher Scientific-Life Science Solution
• Hana Kovarova, Institute of Animal Physiology and Genetics and Research Center PIGMOD, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic

Neurodegenerative disorders are commonly characterized by loss of neural cells where mutated or incorrectly processed “non-self” proteins initiate inflammatory and immune responses. We showed that lack of IL-10 pointed to failure in suppressing neural damage in Huntington’s disease carriers. Immunomodulation represents important mechanism underlying the benefits of stem cell therapies. We utilized multiplexing technology to investigate molecules released by human neural progenitor cells during neuronal differentiation where chemokines of CXCL and CCL families may significantly modulate the neural niche. Potential to alleviate degenerative diseases using antibodies targeted to critical proteins or cytokines to modulate disease process remains enormous. Novel therapeutic and biomarker assays are being developed for monitoring of disease progression. We give examples of candidate biomarkers for Huntington’s disease and measurements of Aβ forms and total tau in various biological fluids.

Detection Sensitivity Is Enhanced by More Powerful Lasers and Expanded Optical Configurations in a Benchtop Flow Cytometer

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
MilliporeSigma

Presenter:

• Katherine Gillis, Senior Scientist, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Multilaser flow cytometers with the capacity for simultaneous measurement of sufficient targets for immunological analysis
have traditionally required extensive operator expertise and are often housed in select or shared labs due to cost. Guava® easyCyte systems offer four enhanced-power modulated lasers, including a unique 532 nm green excitation laser, in a benchtop instrument priced for accessibility by individual labs. The microcapillary fluidics employed by all Guava® systems uniquely enable absolute cell counts with small sample volumes in single tube or 96-well plate format, rendering them ideally suited for precious biological samples from patients or transgenic models. The Guava® InCyte software includes a heat map view of high-throughput plate results, making simultaneous visualization of multiple parameters possible and permitting assessment of multisample activation, synapse formation, and other immunomodulation in a single view. Data will be shown demonstrating how signal from up to twelve fluorophores can be accurately resolved for autoimmunity studies, immunogenic/tolerogenic responses, and intracellular immune activity.

Fast and Easy Isolation of Highly Pure Unique Immune Cell Subsets Using EasySep™ Release

12:30 PM-1:15 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
STEMCELL Technologies Inc.

Presenters:

• Andy Kokaji, Ph.D., Senior Scientist
• Hannah Lee, Ph.D., Senior Product Marketing Manager

The isolation of unique immune cell subsets is often difficult and time-consuming. Explore how to easily and quickly isolate your non-standard subset of cells using the new EasySep™ Release cell isolation products by STEMCELL Technologies. EasySep™ Release is an immunomagnetic, column-free cell isolation platform featuring a rapid, no-wash and gentle method for the removal of magnetic particles on positively-selected cells. EasySep™ Release cell isolation products can be used sequentially with our extensive portfolio of positive- or negative-selection EasySep™ kits to create endless antigen-targeting combinations for the isolation of your unique immune cell types. The workshop will describe different applications and cell types that use EasySep™ Release cell isolation products for the fast and easy isolation of highly purified unique immune subsets.

Powerful Tools for Dynamic Single Cell Analysis of Immune Function

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
MilliporeSigma

Presenters:

• Amedeo Cappione, Ph.D., Senior Scientist, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
• Paul Ju-Sung Hung, Ph.D., R&D Manager, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Precise regulation of lymphocyte function is critical to mounting a specific immune response; this complex process requires exquisite control over cell migration and expression of effector capabilities.  Understanding these mechanisms is essential for development of therapeutics that enhance endogenous immune function.  The ELISpot assay offers quantitative assessment of effector function(s) at the single cell level with superior sensitivity. MilliporeSigma and collaborators have significantly improved the venerable but tricky ELISpot technology with advanced membrane plates, multiparameter fluorescent reporting (fluorospot), and optimized protocols.

Cell migration models suffer from the inability to establish continuous gradients and are not amenable to real-time studies. The microfluidic-based ONIX cell culture system offers real–time environmental control, including media perfusion and gradient formation, and can  be paired with a microscope for dynamic live cell imaging.  Together, these platforms enable functional profiling of single immune cells with unparalleled control and sensitivity.

Unexpected Roles for Intracellularly-Operating Innate Immune Networks in Human Th1 Responses – Do We Need to Think ‘Outside the Box’ and ‘Inside the Cell’?

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
Hycult Biotech Inc

Presenters:

• Claudia Kemper, Ph.D., Trust Investigator/ Professor of Innate Immunology, MRC Centre for Transplantation, King’s College London
• Erik Toonen, Ph.D., R&D Scientist

For a long time, studying the adaptive immune system has been central in the design of therapeutics. New insights indicate that complement activation also regulates fundamental processes of the cell, such as metabolic activity and homeostasis. It also serves as a nexus for the interaction with other effector systems. Specifically, an intracellular complement/NLRP3 inflammasome crosstalk emerges as critical for normal IFN-g secretion by T cells. Advancing insights have not only shown that innate immune regulators are present  but are also key in directing immunological responses. This is of great significance to our understanding of the biology of immune cells and  immune system evolution. It also helps explain why targeting just one arm of the immune system is insufficient for disease treatment. This workshop will give an overview of the emerging key roles of autocrine complement activity in the regulation of Th1 responses and then invites discussion about their implications for design of next generation therapeutics and monitoring.

Accelerating Immuno-oncology and Antibody Discovery Research Through Large Scale Profiling of Suspension Cells Using the iQue Screener Platform

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
IntelliCyt Corporation

Presenters:

• David Sykes MD. PhD., Researcher at the Broad Institute
• Markus Vähä-Koskela, Ph.D., Senior Researcher at FIMM (Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland)

IntelliCyt offers an integrated solution that enables simultaneous screening of cells and secreted proteins in suspension for maximum insight into complex biology. Our iQue Screener platform is a benchtop instrument, software, and reagent system that optimizes the entire workflow to deliver the fastest time to results. Use of the lowest volume assays provides rich and insightful data in minutes. Two end-users will highlight how IntelliCyt’s high throughput approach to assay phenotypic endpoints  enabled them to identify compounds for myeloid differentiation and large scale anti-myeloma drug screening.

Optimize your ELISA and Multiplex Immunoassays for Sensitive and Reliable Results

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
Abcam

Presenter:

• Russell Neuner, Senior Scientist

Optimization strategies for ELISA and multiplex immunoassays to achieve sensitive, specific and accurate quantification of biomarkers will be discussed. These strategies are critical for the use of assays in research and also in assay development.  Many commercial assay kits perform with high sensitivity and a broad dynamic range using purified proteins but fail to perform in experimental sample types. Development of robust assays using matched antibody pairs can fail if the right steps are not taken. Strategies that will be discussed, include how to: titrate antibody pairs to improve signal to noise, formulate diluents to alleviate matrix effects, calibrate protein standards and validate for antibody pair cross-reactivity. Key fundamentals for use of ELISA and multiplex immunoassays will also be addressed, including how to  optimize sample dilutions based on your sample type, control for matrix effects, normalize for batch variability, and test for recovery and linearity of dilution.

Accelerating Innovation with Immunosequencing

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
Adaptive Biotechnologies Corporation

Presenter:

• Catherine Sanders, Director, Scientific Liaison

The immunoSEQ® Platform combines bias-controlled multiplex PCR with high-throughput sequencing and state-of the-art bioinformatics, delivering an accurate, quantitative profile of T- and B-cell receptors. Dr. Sanders will share case studies illustrating a variety of applications and get you thinking about how this new window into the clonality and diversity of the lymphocyte population will advance your research.

Molecular Profiling of Tumor Microenvironment Using CancerNet Targeted NGS Panel

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
Cellecta

Presenters:

• Sunitha Sastry, Ph.D., Senior Product Manager
• Alex Chenchik, Research Director

The clinical importance of tumor immune infiltrates has been an emerging area, particularly in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) where increased immune infiltrate predicts both response to chemotherapy and improved survival. To this end, we have developed CancerNet, a comprehensive targeted RNA-Seq cancer immuno-panel that profiles ~2,000 genes and distinguishes 37 human hematopoietic cell phenotypes (including naïve and memory B cells, seven T-cell types, dendritic cells, plasma cells, natural killer (NK) cells and myeloid subsets), genes involved in checkpoint blockade and immunotherapy biomarkers, immune cell activation, and canonical immune pathway genes. The assay panel characterizes the cellular composition of the immune/stromal/cancer cell tumor microenvironment and determines the activation status of infiltrating immune cells in primary tumor tissues from TNBC patients. Preliminary data demonstrate the assay’s unparalleled specificity and sensitivity as well as an improved cost-effectiveness for high-throughput clinical Next-Gen applications.

Leveraging 3D Biology for Development of Cancer Immuno-Oncology/Immuno-Therapy Biomarkers - Simultaneous Digital Counting of Nucleic-Acids and Proteins at 800-plex

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
NanoString Technologies

Presenter:

• Joseph M. Beechem, Ph.D., Senior Vice President of Research and Development, NanoString Technologies

The ability of mutated cells to give rise to cancer relies upon the ability to evade immune recognition, suppress immune activity, and persist in a chronically inflamed environment.  NanoString has developed an all-digital 3D technology for cancer immune-profiling by simultaneously measuring 770 mRNAs (from 24 infiltrating immune cell types plus numerous immune-signaling pathways) plus 60 key immune system-associated proteins (cell surface markers, immune checkpoints, cytokines, chemokines, etc.) in small amounts of clinically relevant samples.  This technology forms the basis for multi-year collaborations between NanoString and MD Anderson Cancer Center and the Cancer Immunotherapy Trials Network (CITN) to discover multi-analyte-type (mRNA + protein) biomarker signatures to guide cancer immunotherapy.  In this session, NanoString will present hidden biological information locked in DNA, RNA and protein.

Quantitation of MHCII Trafficking Using Imaging in Flow

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
MilliporeSigma

Presenters:

• Sherree Friend, Ph.D., Product Manager, Amnis®, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
• Edith Janssen, Ph.D., Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Imaging flow cytometry applies the speed, sensitivity, and phenotyping abilities of flow cytometry with the detailed imagery and functional insights of microscopy to address complex inquiries in immunology.  In this workshop, you will learn how Amnis® imaging flow cytometers have been used to examine the trafficking of MHC class II (MHCII) in dendritic cells.  The abundance of antigenic peptide-MHCII complexes on antigen presenting cells is determined by many factors that include the balance between the expression of newly generated complexes, complex internalization and subsequent re-emergence or degradation.  However, the molecular mechanisms that govern these interactions are still poorly understood.  Here, we discuss how multispectral imaging in flow can be used to visualize MHCII trafficking and elucidate the molecular mechanisms that regulate MHCII homeostasis in primary mouse and human dendritic cells.

Multiplex-microarray Immunoassays and the Serological Confirmation of Chagas Disease

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
SCIENION US, Inc. and InfYnity Biomarkers

Presenters:

• Claude Dufresne, President
• Maan Zrein, CEO, InfYnity Biomarkers
• Elodie Granjon, Chargée de recherche, InfYnity Biomarkers

Immunoassays are usually performed in 96-well plates, with
each well coated with a single mixture of antibodies or antigens, resulting in a single data point. Multiplexed assays involve both miniaturization and the measure of multiple analytes. Instead of a single reactant covering the well bottoms, an array of different molecules is ‘printed’ and immobilized. Multiple measurements are then obtained from a single well. Advantages include reductions in reagent usage, turn-around time and sample consumption. This workshop illustrates multiplexing using an innovative implementation by SCIENION and InfYnity Biomarkers. Using antigen arrays, antibody-profiling responses can be performed versus hundreds of antigens in a single assay. Such high-throughput studies have uncovered new antigenic targets, new insights into vaccine research and into immunoreactivity against most of the proteome of some pathogens. This response pattern is often associated with a clinical infection, such as Chagas.

The Role of Flow Cytometry in an Advanced Era of Immuno-Therapeutic Discovery

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
Miltenyi Biotec

Presenter:

• Matt McBrian, Ph.D., Product Manager

Progress in harnessing the power of the immune system is ushering in a new era of immunotherapy. A better understanding of the immune response and advancements in the manufacture of genetically-modified immune cells have been critical drivers of this progress. The discovery of effective translational findings relies strongly on robust and reproducible characterization of the cells that mediate the immunological response. Flow cytometry provides an effective methodology for this  characterization although the standardization of the process can be a challenging endeavor. This session will demonstrate usage of an innovative platform and reagents from Miltenyi Biotec in the exciting and groundbreaking work from two labs that illustrate the utility of flow cytometry for effective cellular characterization utilizing the innovative platform and reagents available from Miltenyi Biotec.

Time to GoInVivo™: Validated Checkpoint Functional Antibodies for Cancer Research

1:45 PM - 2:30 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
BioLegend

Presenter:

• Miguel A. Tam, Ph.D., Senior Product Manager

The immune system plays an essential role in controlling tumor growth. Tumor cells can communicate with immune checkpoint receptors to trick the response into suppression, allowing the tumor cell to grow without immune cell intervention. To interfere with this process, bioactive antibodies can deplete targeted immune cell populations or block important checkpoint interactions. Well-studied combinations include PD-1/PD-L1, CTLA-4/CD80 and CD86, LAG-3/MHC II, and Tim-3/Galectin 9. BioLegend’s GoInVivo™ antibodies against immune checkpoint molecules offer several advantages. They have been validated in both flow cytometry and in vitro bioassays, are pathogen-free as tested by qPCR, and have excellent pricing for large sizes. Here we present our portfolio, validation methods, as well as in vitro and in vivo applications. Specificity is characterized via flow cytometry staining and blocking capacity via target-ligand inhibition bioassays.  The effect of in vitro stimulation and in vivo injection on the activation phenotype and percentage of lymphocytes, as well as the cytokine profile are shown.

Development of Immunotherapy Potency Assays Using Real-Time Cell Analysis and Flow Cytometry

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
ACEA Biosciences, Inc.

Presenters:

• Garret Gunther
• Fabio Cerignoli

Immunotherapy is one of the most promising approaches in cancer treatment, allowing specific elimination of cancer cells through activation of the immune response. However, despite the necessity of in vitro characterization of efficacy and potency of reagents and protocols before moving to more expensive animal models and clinical studies, current in vitro assays are difficult to implement in a high throughput environment, are not very quantitative and are based mainly on end point methods that are unable to capture the full dynamics of the immune response. In this workshop we will present a complete workflow that combines the power of xCELLigence real-time cell analysis together with the NovoCyte flow cytometer for a comprehensive effector-mediated potency assay.  We will show the validation conducted with antibodies and effector cells such as NK, CTLs, and CART on both solid and liquid tumor cell lines. Furthermore, we will also present data that demonstrates how this system could be used for evaluating antibodies in ADCC assays, Bi-specific T cell engagers, and checkpoint inhibitors.

Massively-Parallel Sequencing for Immunology and Complex Disease: A Systems Biology Approach with RNA-Seq and Other Methods

12:30 PM - 1:15 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
Illumina, Inc.

Presenter:

• Jason Smith, Senior Sequencing Specialist

The use of next-generation sequencing and epigenetics in biological research can provide unique insights into the mechanisms and pathways of complex, multifactorial diseases. To take full advantage of the increasing capabilities of massively parallel sequencing, a holistic approach is needed. The ability to probe the genomics space from multiple perspectives, including targeted sequencing, transcriptomics, and epigenetics, unlocks new insights into the molecular mechanisms of disease. With a single sequencing platform, each of these genomics areas can be explored and combined to advance our understanding of complex disease. This workshop will provide you with an introduction to next-generation sequencing technology and to the many applications that are possible using next-generation sequencing. Learn about the sample to answer solutions to many different applications that Illumina offers. Join us for what is sure to be an interesting session!

Cell-based Assays for T cell Metabolism: Understanding the Drivers of Immunity

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
Seahorse Bioscience

Presenters:

• David Ferrick, Ph.D., Chief Scientific Officer
• Kacey Caradonna, Ph.D., Project Manager

With all the new information coming out about metabolism driving lymphocyte function, the metabolic phenotype of T cells is now recognized as a critical piece in the immune response picture.  In this workshop you will learn how researchers are using Seahorse XF technology to detect metabolic switches that enable T cell differentiation and activation, monitor metabolic reprogramming driven by mTOR and other key signaling pathways, and identify the metabolic requirements for T cell development and function. Please join us for this informative session to get practical advice on designing and performing Seahorse XF metabolic assays with T cells, determining which nutrients/substrates are required by different T cell subsets, and generating and interpreting metabolic phenotypes of primary immune cells.

Advancements in Immunotherapeutic Research with Magnetic Cell Separation

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
Miltenyi Biotec

Presenter:

• Anne Richter, Ph.D., Research & Development Scientist

Advancements in cell selection and gene editing have reshaped the reality of immunotherapy. New advances in tissue regeneration and effective treatment of cancer and autoimmune diseases depend on the further advancement of highly specialized cellular products. Medical progress is, therefore, dependent on complete and versatile solutions for GMP-compliant cell manufacturing, including cell separation, differentiation, expansion, formulation, and cryopreservation. In order to realize the goal of cellular therapy, our R&D team members collaborate closely with the world’s leading immunologists to develop unique solutions. This session will highlight the work of two extraordinary scientists whose research exemplifies scientific excellence, biomedical innovation, and potential therapeutic impact.

Multiplex Assays of Fifteen Human Complement Factors Using New MILLIPLEX® map Panels

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 2
MilliporeSigma

Presenter:

• Robert Keith, R&D Research Scientist, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

The complement system’s multiple plasma proteins assist phagocytic cells and antibodies in clearing pathogens. The complement system plays a key role in diseases with an immune component, such as asthma or sepsis, and in autoimmune diseases, including SLE, IBD, RA, JIA, and MS. Understanding how this system affects complex states demands measurement of multiple proteins simultaneously (“complement profiles”) in patient serum or plasma. Using Luminex xMAP® technology, we developed two multiplex panels to quantitate 15 complement proteins simultaneously in serum or plasma. Significant differences were observed for several complement proteins when comparing SLE, JIA, and sepsis patients to healthy subjects. Join our exhibitor workshop for the presentation of these data and tips on using the new MILLIPLEX® map Human Complement Panels to save time, money, and sample, compared to ELISAs.

Considerations in Determining Targets for Cancer Immunotherapy

10:00 AM - 10:45 AM
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP ROOM 1
MilliporeSigma

Presenters:

• Chandra Mohan, Ph.D., Senior Manager, Technical Writing and Documentation Development, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
• Kevin Long, Ph.D., Senior Manager, Technical & Science Content Marketing, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
• Wayne Speckmann, Ph.D., Head of Antibody Development, MilliporeSigma, the Life Sciences business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany

Antibodies have gained importance as powerful therapeutic armamentarium for a wide range of human diseases, including many types of cancer. Cancer immunotherapy offers advantages of high specificity, fewer side effects, and long-term benefits in some patients. However, it also creates challenges because subtle changes that make cancer cells immortal are not sufficient enough to elicit an immune reaction. Although the number of therapeutic options are growing, monoclonal antibodies offer a clear advantage of specificity and shorter life-span, which limits undesirable side effects. However, there is still need to understand target pathways and develop validated antibodies for research use to first reveal appropriately differentiated targets.  This presentation will discuss some new research antibodies developed by MilliporeSigma to key tumor specific antigens that may be valuable in identifying novel cancer pathway targets.

 SOLD!  Mobile App Rotating Banner Ad - $1,000

Rotating banner sponsors receive a clickable banner ad displayed at the top of the home page. Ads will also be displayed and rotating on the desktop version.

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Opening Night Welcome - $10,000 (per shared sponsorship)

Immediately following the President’s Address, this event provides attendees a festive opportunity to be reunited with friends—and you the opportunity to drive traffic to your booth! Shared sponsorships are available (up to 3) and include a sponsor greeting table, sponsor logos on signs and banners, and extra drink tickets for your staff to share with guests. Qualifies for Sustaining Sponsorship.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

Grants and Awards

• AAI Laboratory Travel Awards - $2,500/grant
  These grants provide travel support to mid-career investigators for attending the AAI annual meeting. The grants are awarded to scientists who have limited funds for travel but are the first or last authors on one or more abstracts submitted to the annual meeting. Each grant will provide two travel awards of up to $1,250 each: one to the PI or laboratory director and another to a member of his or her lab.
• AAI Undergraduate Faculty Travel Grants - $2,250/grant
  These grants assist undergraduate faculty attending the AAI annual meeting. The grants also support travel costs for an undergraduate student of the recipient's selection
• AAI Early Career Faculty Travel Grants - $1,250/grant
  These grants assist promising young investigators with travel to the AAI annual meeting. Testimonials from past recipients confirm that this modest amount makes a huge difference in their career development.
• AAI Trainee Abstract Awards - $500 - $750*/Award
  These awards provide critical travel support for AAI Trainee Members whose first-author abstracts are selected for oral presentation in an AAI Block Symposium. Over 300 abstract awards are given to our most talented developing investigators. Amounts vary by number of consecutive years of AAI membership.
• AAI Poster Awards - $300/Award
  These awards provide up to $300 travel reimbursement to AAI Trainee Members whose first-author abstracts selected for poster presentations only are deemed to be exceptional. Selection is based on the originality and significance of the research presented. Approximately 100 poster awards will be given to talented early career investigators.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

Career Sessions

• Careers in Science Networking Roundtables - $4,000
  Where experienced professionals lead discussions on specific career issues and options in their chosen fields-academia, industry, government or non-profit.
• AAI Minority Affairs Session and Reception - $ 4,000
  At this roundtable geared to early/mid-career scientists, senior immunologists lead discussions on handling today's career challenges and facilitate a structured networking exercise centered on communicating one's scientific interests/objectives most efficiently.
• NEW - Careers in Biotech Reception - $3,000
  This Saturday evening panel features scientists employed in a variety of positions in industry discussing their career paths and the skills required for success in each. AAI invites a sponsor to support the reception following the panel discussion. Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor.
• How to Convert Your CV into a Resume - $2,000
  Lecture followed by one-on-one counseling.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

Lectures Symposia

• President's Address - $10,000
  The AAI president officially opens the AAI annual meeting with a presentation of his or her research. As AAI presidents are among the most outstanding immunologists world-wide, this session is attended by the largest audience of the meeting. (Audience 2,000). Qualifies for Sustaining Sponsor
• President's Symposium - $10,000
  The AAI president is the chair of a symposium of his or her choosing featuring prominent immunologists invited to present cutting-edge research. This session typically attracts a standing-room-only audience. (Audience 2,000). Qualifies for Sustaining Sponsor
• Distinguished Lectures (3) - $10,000 each
  Each day the scientific program ends with a plenary lecture by a scientist designated by the AAI Program Committee as one of the most talented and renowned immunologists today. (Audience 2,000 each). Qualifies for Sustaining Sponsor
• Major Symposia (8) - $5,000 each
  Eight Major Symposia are featured throughout the meeting: two concurrently each morning. These sessions present the most innovative science in the field today. Five to six noted scientists are featured in each session. (Audience 1,000 – 1,200 each). Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

 SOLD!  Banners - $1,500 each

4’x8’ banners located at the top of two sets of escalators leading to the Exhibit Hall and Scientific Program meeting rooms. Opportunities are available for four banners at the 4th floor and four banners at the 3rd floor. Banners will be viewed as attendees reach the top of the escalators. Limit, two banners per sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Hotel Key Cards - $10,000

Reach attendees numerous times daily with an exclusive sponsorship of hotel key cards. Your company message will be printed on the room key provided to attendees staying in the AAI hotel block. Logo and graphics must be submitted to AAI for pre-approval and we will arrange for production and delivery. Qualifies for Supporting Sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Lanyards - $5,000

Attendees will display your company name around their necks. Sponsor arranges for production and delivery of at least 3,500 lanyards. Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Meeting Bags - $25,000

See attendees carrying your logo to work, on shopping trips and more! AAI will arrange for production and delivery of at least 3,500 bags. Qualifies for Silver Sponsor.

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Attendee Mailing List

• Post Event Mailing List - $700
  Reinforce your message with a one-time post-event mailing. AAI will send you a list electronically with physical addresses (no email) soon after the meeting wraps up.
• Pre-Event Mailing List - $1,000
  Let attendees know where you are and why they need to see you during the meeting. Physical address (no email) and one-time use only. AAI will send the list electronically.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

Exhibit Hall Only Day Pass - $50 each

Invite your clients in the local Seattle metropolitan area to come to your booth during show hours on Monday, May 16. Your guests’ badges will provide access that day for entry into the Exhibit Hall to visit with you (non-refundable and non-transferable; access to Exhibit Hall only. These will be available for purchase when IMMUNOLOGY 2016TM registration opens in December 2015.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

 SOLD!  Passport Program

AAI offers this program to drive traffic to your booth. Participate so that your company's booth will be featured on a special map of the Exhibit Hall floor and the IMMUNOLOGY 2016™ Passport placed in every attendee's Meeting Bag. You'll be able to visit with the many attendees coming to your booth to obtain your stamp on their maps. Attendees enter their completed Passports into the drawings for one of three $250 American Express gift cards. The drawing will be held during the Poster Presentation Hour on Monday. This program is limited to exhibitors with 200 square feet booths or less. (Stamps will be provided by AAI.) Limit, 16 sponsors.

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 SOLD!  Mobile App - $8,000

The app was used by 64% of 2015 conference attendees. Elite sponsor will have their logo on the splash screen, a clickable rotating banner ad, and booth highlighted on the exhibit hall floor plan in the app. Rotating Banner Sponsors receive a clickable banner ad displayed at the top of the home page. Ads will also be displayed and rotated on the desktop version. Up to 6 Rotating Banner ads are available. Elite Sponsor Qualifies for Supporting Sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Coffee Break - $6,000

Host coffee for the attendees in the Expo Hall on either Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, including a coffee station in your booth as well as coffee service located in the Exhibit Hall. Sponsor is invited to supply branded cups and napkins for the event. Qualifies for Supporting Sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Stair Decals - $5,000

Promote your message to attendees using stair decals located right inside the entrance to the Washington State Convention Center. Each attendee will walk those stairs to get to the Exhibit Hall and Scientific Sessions. There are two sets of stairs (seven stairs each) available; decals will be 10’ in length. Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor for one set of stairs and Supporting Sponsor for both sets.

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Hotel In-Room Promotional Material Drop - $8,000

Entice attendees by delivering any of a variety of branded items (small box of chocolate, local Seattle treat, etc) or a marketing piece (postcard, invitation to your booth, your company’s marketing item, etc) to each attendee in the AAI hotel block. Limit one drop per evening on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings. Sponsor to arrange delivery of materials to all AAI hotels. Size restrictions may apply and items must be submitted to AAI for approval no later than 30 days prior to the meeting. Limit, one drop per evening. Qualifies for Supporting Sponsor.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus

 SOLD!  Power/Charging Station - $3,000

Today's attendees travel with at least one mobile device, whether it is a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Create excitement around your company's product/service offering. Sponsorship includes charging station branded with sponsor logo. Limit, 1 sponsor. Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor.      

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 SOLD!  Escalator Runners - $3,000 each

Three sets of escalators take attendees from entrance to the Center on street level up to the Expo Hall on Level 4. Each set of escalators has one up, one down, and one in the middle determined by traffic flow. Two runner spots available for each set of escalators. Sponsor two and save. Limit six total, two runners per sponsor. Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Meeting Bag Insert - $3,000 each

Place your promotional materials or item right into all attendees' hands for long-term residual exposure. Sponsor arranges purchase, production, and delivery of at least 3,500 items. Limitations on size apply and items must be submitted to AAI for approval. Examples of acceptable inserts are: promotional brochures, postcards, other printed materials (no catalogs), pens, note pads, USB flash drives, water bottles, luggage tags, umbrellas, laser pointers. Limit, 6 sponsors. Qualifies for Contributing Sponsor.

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 SOLD!  Exhibitor Workshop $1,000 each

This popular opportunity is available in one of two rooms on the Exhibit Hall floor. With theater-style seating for up to 100 attendees, each room provides the perfect setting for in-depth presentations and discussions. Workshops cannot conflict with the daily poster presentations time.  Presentation topic, date, time, and description will be included in the meeting Program. Note: The one-hour room includes time needed for your set-up, 45-minute presentation, and tear down time. Limit, 24 workshops.

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Exhibit Hall Aisle Banners $500 each

Attendees refer to the large aisle signs overhead to get their bearings in the Exhibit Hall. Add your name/logo and booth number on your aisle sign to reach all attendees who visit the Exhibit Hall. Aisle Banners will feature 4'x3' sponsor branding and booth number on every sign. Limit, 11 sponsors.

Purchase See Exhibitor Prospectus