Registration deadlines

Early Bird - 05 May 2025

Talk Submission - 05 May 2025

Poster Submission - 04 Aug 2025

Registration Deadline - 04 Aug 2025

Register

Conference Manager

Rosie Johnson

Rosie Johnson

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Synopsis

Transposable elements (TEs), which constitute nearly half of the human genome, were once deemed ‘junk DNA’. However, recent technological advancements have led to a resurgence of research interest into their functional impact and molecular mechanism, particularly focusing on the major Type I TEs (also known as Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements or EREs). These elements, integrated into the human genome over millions of years, have undergone evolutionary changes that now make them influential factors in human biology. EREs represent a rich yet understudied source of regulatory sequences that drive the evolution of human genomes and epigenomic landscape. ERE dysregulation has been widely reported in human diseases including cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and aging. 

The primary goal of this meeting will be to facilitate the exchange of ideas among academic scientists and clinical researchers from diverse backgrounds. This Fusion meeting will boost unconventional interactions and foster innovative, cross-disciplinary ideas and collaborations that could transform existing paradigms.

To accelerate progress in both basic and translational research in this cutting-edge field, this meeting will not only review previous discoveries but also communicate ongoing and unpublished work, and hopefully inspire new modes to translate basic discoveries from bench to the bedside.

Key Sessions

The session themes will cover ERE in various contexts:

  • Evolution
  • Development
  • Pathology
  • Epigenetic Regulation
  • Immunology
  • Gene Regulatory Network
  • New Therapeutic Strategies

We will also organize discussion panels for novel technologies of ERE research and targeting EREs for therapy, such as AI-based approaches and RNA therapy.

Target Audience

This conference is targeted to basic research scientists and translational researchers who is active in ERE related field and who wants to find collaborative opportunities. We hope to welcome scientists from all stages including early-career trainees.

Educational Need

This conference will open the new horizon of ERE research and spark novel ideas for how to translate basic discoveries from bench to the bedside. The audience will learn the forefront of ERE’s latest discoveries and new technological progress.
 

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Speakers

Speakers to be confirmed.

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Programme

Programme timings to be confirmed shortly.


Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Prices

Ticket Type Early Bird Full Price
Single
Choose this option if you will be attending the conference alone, or if you will bring accompanying guests that will not attend the meeting.
$2341 $2442
Shared
Choose this option if you wish to share with a colleague who is also attending the conference, or if you wish to be paired with another attendee of the same sex.
$1979 $2080
Student
Choose this option if you are a student. Please note all students will be paired with another attendee of the same sex if a room sharer is not specified. If you wish to have your own room, please register under the Single option.
$1059 $1059
Additional Person
This is the cost for an additional adult or child to join you in the same room, for the entire conference period. Accompanying persons are not permitted access to the conference. If you wish to extend your stay, please see our 'Extra night' prices.

Adult

$816

Child

$266

Extra nights
Prices are per person.

Adult

$342

Child

$80


All registration fees include 3 nights accommodation and meals during the conference period. Exact inclusions are detailed below.

What's Included in our Registration Fees?

Our registration fees are inclusive of the following at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya hotel during the conference period only:

- Conference registration.
- 3 nights’ fixed accommodation (03, 04, 05 Nov 2025) on a single or shared basis in a run of house room*.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner available at restaurants according to their operational hours.
- Unlimited alcoholic beverages, cocktails and soft drinks available at restaurants and bars according to their operational hours.
- Daily coffee breaks.
- Gala buffet dinner with an open bar.
- Room service.
- In-room minibar replenished daily with drinks and snacks.
- Complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel.

What's Included in our Accompanying Adult Fees?

Our accompanying adult fees are inclusive of the following at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya hotel during the conference period only:

- 3 nights’ fixed accommodation (03, 04, 05 Nov 2025) on a shared basis with a conference participant in a run of house room*.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner available at restaurants according to their operational hours.
- Unlimited alcoholic beverages, cocktails and soft drinks available at restaurants and bars according to their operational hours.
- Gala buffet dinner with an open bar.
- Room service.
- In-room minibar replenished daily with drinks and snacks.
- Complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel.

Important Note: Accompanying guests are not permitted access to the conference.

What's Included in our Accompanying Child Fees?

Our accompanying child fees are inclusive of the following at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya hotel during the conference period only:

- 3 nights’ fixed accommodation (03, 04, 05 Nov 2025) on a shared basis with the parent/s in a run of house room*.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner available at restaurants according to their operational hours.
- Unlimited soft drinks available at restaurants and bars according to their operational hours.
- Gala buffet dinner with soft drinks.
- Complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel.

Important Note: Accompanying child fees are applicable for children aged 5-12 years. Children younger than 5 years stay free of charge with a parent. Children aged 13 years and older are classified as an adult at this venue. Please kindly ensure your child / children are supervised at all times during conference and related events. Childcare services are available at the hotel, please contact Rosie for further information

What's Included in our Extra Night Fees?

Our extra night fees are inclusive of the following at the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya hotel:

- 1 night’s accommodation for 1 person in a run of house room*.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner available at restaurants according to their operational hours.
- Unlimited alcoholic beverages, cocktails and soft drinks available at restaurants and bars according to their operational hours
- Room service.
- In-room minibar replenished daily with drinks and snacks. 
- Complimentary WIFI throughout the hotel.

Important Note: If you wish to extend your stay more than 1 night pre/post conference, this is possible to book via Fusion, but please contact Rosie for assistance and prices. Extra night child fees are applicable for children aged 5-12 years. Children younger than 5 years stay free of charge with a parent. Children aged 13 years and older are classified as an adult at this venue.

*Run of house means you could be allocated any of the following room types; nature view, partial ocean view or ocean view room with either king or double beds. Room types cannot be guaranteed. The only way to guarantee a room type is to upgrade. Please contact Fusion for upgrade options and pricing.

Prices and hotel availability are subject to change without notice.

 

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Grants

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

LinkedIn forum

The Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Research Network LinkedIn group is an excellent platform to connect with fellow attendees and likeminded researchers prior to the conference. The group is open to all and is intended as a networking forum for past, present and future participants of Fusion Conferences as well as those interested in the related topics. To join, please follow the link below.

Join our group

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Venue

Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya

We love this property in the Riviera Maya as it is a beautiful area of Mexico and has a very different vibe to the hustle and bustle of Cancun. Located just 8 miles from Tulum, this hidden gem is the perfect destination for those who love admiring, exploring or enjoying nature. Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya will captivate your senses with unparalleled natural views, bold flavors, clear blue skies, the gentle touch of the cool breeze and the irresistible aromas of this tropical paradise. This property & location is a favourite amongst our delegates.

Hotel facilities include;

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi in guest rooms and throughout hotel and conference areas
  • Pools
  • Spa
  • Fitness Center
  • 6 Restaurants
  • Kids Club
  • Beach

Venue Rating

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Address

Carretera Cancun Tulum 307 Tulkal Chemuyil Tulum, 77774, Mexico

Nearest Airport

Cancun International Airport

Location

Stretching from the fishing village of Puerto Morelos to the biosphere reserve of Sian Ka'an, the Mayan Riviera offers an unforgettable Caribbean coastline experience with beautiful white-sand beaches and brilliant turquoise colored water. This world-renowned paradise is home to mangroves and lagoons, ancient Mayan cities, ecological reserves and adventure parks, and the world's second largest coral reef.

The hotel is located just a few miles from Tulum, a town on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. It’s known for its spectacluar beaches and well-preserved ruins of an ancient Mayan port city. The area also offers incredible cavern diving opportunties and beautiful cenotes to explore. We would highly recommend joining one of the group activities to Tulum or the Gran Cenote - they will make for an unforgettable conference experience! 

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Transportation

Cancun International Airport is approximately 1hour 30minutes from the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya. Unlike other airports, Cancun airport transfer services must be pre-arranged. To obtain safe, licensed and bilingual transportation services please ensure you book your arrival and return transportation online with an authorised transportation company prior to your arrival to ensure a smooth journey without delays.

Tulum International Airport is a newly opened airport located about 1 hour from the Hilton Tulum Riviera Maya. As the airport is still in its early stages, only a select number of airlines are currently operating, including major US carriers such as JetBlue, Air Canada, Delta, and United Airlines. For more details, please visit the airport's official website

Cancun Airport Taxis

Approximately $100 USD each way*
*subject to change, please check Cancun International Airport website for a more accurate estimation for your trip

Further information on Taxi services can be found on the Cancun International Airport website (see below link) along with some top tips for travellers from local experts and official authorities. 

https://www.cancunairport.com/taxi.html

Private Transportation Companies

There are many alternative transportation companies operating in the Cancun area who will be able to provide a quotation for your trip. The following companies are well reviewed on Trip Advisor and quotations can be obtained and bookings can be made directly via their websites.
Amstar

Kalido Travel

Happy Shuttle Cancun

STP Caribe

Transportation is the sole responsibility of the delegate. Please ensure you conduct your own research and double check your booking details ahead of your arrival. Fusion Conferences are unable to assist with or confirm transportation bookings due to insurance limitations. Thank you for your understanding.

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Local Activities

Local activity details will be announced here soon. 

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Childcare

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Oral Presenters

We have several oral opportunities available at this meeting. To be considered for a talk, please register for the conference and upload your abstract when prompted to do so. You will be able to monitor the status of your abstract through your Fusion account and you will also receive an email if you are successful or unsuccessful.

If you are unable to register for the conference for any reason, but still wish to submit an abstract for consideration, please email the Conference Manager directly.

Please use the abstract template provided (see below) and ensure your abstract is no longer than one page in length.

If you are accepted for a talk, we recommend you check our website regularly as the conference approaches. Regular programme updates will be released under the ‘Programme’ tab on the conference website.

Your Presentation

On the day of your presentation please make yourself known to our AV technician who will be present in the conference room. We advise running through your presentation at least 30minutes prior to your session commencing to ensure your slides and any videos or animations appear as expected. We prefer our speakers to run their presentation from the master PC or Mac, however, if you prefer to use your own laptop then please notify us prior to the session. A HDMI or VGA cable is usually available on the podium.

Our AV technician will apply your microphone and provide a combined slide advancer and laser pointer.

We ask all speakers to adhere to their time slots and respect their fellow presenters. A visual traffic light aide will be available to warn presenters as their time decreases.

Please make sure your presentation adheres to the following guidelines.

Aspect Ratio: On Screen Show (16:9)
File Type: Please save your presentation in PPT, PPTS or Keynote format.

Download Abstract Template

Endogenous Retrotransposable Elements and Human Diseases Conference

Transforming ERE-driven mechanisms from bench to bedside #EREHD25


03 Nov 2025 - 06 Nov 2025

Riviera Maya, Mexico

Chairs

Katherine Chiappinelli
George Washington University School of Medicine
Hui Shen
Van Andel Institute
Ting Wang
Washington University School of Medicine
Tao Wu
Baylor College of Medicine

Posters

We have several poster opportunities available at this meeting. To be considered for a poster presentation, please register for the conference and upload your abstract when prompted to do so. You will be able to monitor the status of your abstract through your Fusion account and you will also receive an email if you are successful or unsuccessful.

Please use the abstract template provided (see below) and ensure your abstract is no longer than one page in length.

Our poster boards can accommodate a maximum poster size of A0 (1189H x 841W mm), portrait in orientation. Posters exceeding this size may not fit on the poster boards provided and therefore we may be unable to display your poster, so please kindly keep to these measurements.

Displaying & Presenting Your Poster

Please bring your poster to registration and hand this to a member of the Fusion team. They will advise of your poster number and display your poster for you. 

Your poster will remain on display for the duration of the conference, allowing presenters to take advantage of the refreshment breaks and free time for valuable networking opportunities, in addition to the official poster session.

Please check the programme and note the date and time of the poster session(s). Your poster will be judged during the poster session and prizes will be awarded at the Gala Dinner.

Posters will be taken down by the Fusion team and will be ready for collection at the Fusion desk on the final day of the conference.

Download Abstract Template