The classical genetic code based on the four Watson-Crick nucleotides has been an accepted paradigm for decades. However, an important aspect of this model has recently been overturned with the discovery of DNA modifications that create a second layer of information on top of the basic DNA code. In a similar way, numerous RNA modifications add a similar "hidden" programme to the RNA code that we are only just beginning to understand. Deciphering the epigenetic code that is embodied by these modified DNA and RNA bases is currently one of the hottest topics in biology, and is the central focus of the NucMod symposium.

This symposium originates from a cooperation of the DFG funded special priority programme on the chemical biology of native nucleic acid modifications (SPP1784), and the Institute of Molecular Biology (IMB) in Mainz. It will bring together key players in the previously segregated fields of RNA and DNA modifications, which are now merging to create a brand new interdisciplinary research field that includes chemical biology, structural biology, bioinformatics, biophysics and cell biology, developmental biology and epigenetics. The symposium will outline the major developments in this rapidly developing field, presented by its worldwide leaders. Speakers We are delighted to announce the following keynote speakers: Chuan He - University of Chicago, USA Brenda Bass - University of Utah, USA Click here for a full list of NucMod speakers.