Over the past decade, modern genomics and transcriptomics have discovered a wealth of hidden small genes containing short open reading frames (sORFs) in many prokaryotic genomes. These sORFs encoding small proteins of <50 amino acids in length are typically missed by automated gene predictions. Recent efforts focusing on their functions have discovered small proteins impacting disparate cellular processes, running the gamut of energy generation, transport, virulence, symbiosis, sporulation, and photosynthesis.

Besides, new emerging technologies (e.g. riboprofiling, new proteomics/peptidomics techniques) now enable profiling and systematic investigation on physiological roles of small protreins.

This conference in the frame of the priority program SPP2002 “Small Proteins in Prokaryotes, an Unexplored World” aims at showcasing small proteins in Prokaryotes from different angles: in method development for detection and analysis as well as investigating physiological roles of small proteins in diverse bacteria and archaea.

This meeting will bring together researchers at all career stages with the goals of sharing new insights, establishing collaborations and cross-fertilization of ideas.