Introduction to JID Symposium Proceedings 52nd Annual Montagna Symposium on the Biology of Skin: Stem Cells in Skin Held at Snowmass, Colorado, USA, June 13–17, 2003

The 52nd Annual Montagna Symposium on the Biology of Skin focused on "Stem Cells in Skin," exploring the basic biology and potential clinical applications of stem cells. Key discussions included the identification and characterization of epithelial stem cells, their plasticity, and regulatory mechanisms. Notable findings were presented on the role of stem cells in hair follicles, interfollicular epidermis, and corneal disorders, as well as the potential for stem cells from other tissues to contribute to skin biology. The symposium concluded that adult somatic stem cells could be used for future cell therapies, emphasizing the importance of targeting stem cells for long-term gene therapy. The event also honored young investigators and acknowledged the support of various institutions and individuals.