Kick-off meeting of the ÖGAI B cell working group
On September 25, the Austrian Society for Allergology and Immunology (ÖGAI) officially launched its new working group “B Cells in Health and Disease.” The inaugural meeting brought together researchers and clinicians from across Austria to foster collaboration and exchange on fundamental and translational aspects of B cell biology. The meeting started with an inauguration of the working group by the President of ÖGAI, Prof. Dr. Wilfried Ellmeier. This was followed by the speaker of the group Prof. Dr. Marta Rizzi who gave an introduction to the group’s aims which includes strengthening national networking, promoting B-cell research in Austria, and integrating B cell research across immunological disciplines. Two co-speakers were elected, Dr. Selina Keppler from Medical University of Graz and Dr. Ola Grimsholm from Medical University of Vienna. Short presentations highlighted ongoing work in areas such as antibody repertoire analysis, autoimmunity, allergy, and B cell-targeted therapies. An external plenary speaker, Dr. Marion Espeli from Paris gave an excellent and inspiring talk. The meeting concluded with a social activity with drinks and snacks.
