WELCOME NOTE

Dear Colleagues,

The International Congress of Autoimmunity has become established as one of the major meetings in the field of immunology. The lectures and discussions during the 6th International Congress will cover every aspect of basic research attempting to clarify etiology or pathogenesis, and will also bring forth the latest innovations in biological and other modes of treatment.

As in the previous Congress, where three of the leaders of the field of autoimmunity (Irun Cohen, Graham Hughes, and Joachim Kalden) were awarded with the Aesku Prize for Life Contribution to Autoimmunity - so, similarly, three other eminent scientists will receive this year's Aesku Prize, and be acknowledged as path finders.

We aim to make the surrounding conditions of the Congress of a high standard, so that participants will enjoy spending all the days of the Congress in the lecture halls. However, yielding to the attractions and the enticing beautiful area of Porto and its vicinity - daytime excursions and relaxing cultural events in the evenings will also be arranged.

It is our sincere hope that the assembly of thousands of physicians and researchers interested in autoimmunity in Porto will create new collaborations and pave the road for new and bold breakthroughs in research - serving the purpose of assuring better care of autoimmune diseases, or even finding the ultimate cure.

The Congress will be covered by the following journals: "Autoimmunity Reviews",
"J. Autoimmunity", "Autoimmunity" and "Ann NY Acad of Science".

Following the textbook of Autoantibodies, which was distributed in Sorrento, this year we will include the Textbook of Diagnostic Criteria for Autoimmune Diseases in the participants' bags in Porto. In this meeting there will also be several special symposia as well as a course in Basic Immunology.

We will be happy to see you among the participants of the 6th International Congress on Autoimmunity in Porto, which will cater to your needs with a romantic atmosphere and wonderful Port wine.

Sincerely yours,