Symposium “From Molecular Virology to Viral Transformation”

On March 3, 2025, the symposium From Molecular Virology to Viral Transformation: Advancing Science through Adenovirus Research, organized by the LIV under the chairmanship of Prof. Thomas Dobner, took place at the Erikahaus. The event not only served the purpose of scientific exchange, but also honored the outstanding achievements in adenovirus research of Thomas Dobner, who will retire in autumn 2025.

The symposium began with a welcome address by the Scientific Director of the LIV, Prof. Marcus Altfeld. In further words of welcome, Dr. Eva Gümbel (State Secretary for Science, Research and Equality of the Free and Hanseatic City of Hamburg), Ines Perea (Federal Ministry of Health) and Prof. Thomas Schulz (Hannover Medical School) highlighted Prof. Dobner's significant contributions to virology.

Renowned scientists presented their latest research findings:

• Prof. David Ornelles (Wake Forest University School of Medicine, USA) poke about his experiences in adenovirus research.
• Prof. Tamar Kleinberger (Technion Faculty of Medicine, Israel) shed light on the functions of the adenovirus E4orf4 protein.
• Prof. Felicia Goodrum (University of Arizona, USA) discussed the mechanisms of latency and reactivation of the human cytomegalovirus.
• Prof. Ramón González (Universidad Autonoma del Estado de Morelos, Mexiko) shared insights into 25 years of adenovirus research.
• Prof. Sabrina Schreiner (University Medical Center Freiburg) presented new therapeutic approaches focusing on the integrity of PML and SUMO interactions during adenovirus infection.

In addition, Prof. Blanche Schwappach-Pignataro (University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf), Prof. Ulf Dittmer (Society for Virology & University Hospital Essen) and Prof. Gülşah Gabriel (LIV) paid tribute to Prof. Dobner's achievements in their speeches.

The symposium also offered participants the opportunity to discuss the latest research findings during a reception and poster session afterwards.