Central nervous system (CNS) injury represents a major challenge for basic scientists as well as clinicians. Appreciating this fact, a broad-based basic science and clinical committee suggested the organization of the first Pannonian Symposium on CNS Injury which sought to provide a unique environment for the exchange of new concepts and strategies in the area of CNS injury and repair while also providing the platform for future projects and collaboration. Based on the success of the first Pannonian meeting three additional symposia followed, and currently we are now in the process of planning the 5th Pannonian Symposium on CNS Injury which will occur as an official part of the "European Capital of Culture 2010" festivities.

Appreciating that a thorough and rational assessment of the pathobiology of CNS injury, together with a systematic bench to bedside approach, are prerequisite for any breakthrough in patient care, this symposium will strive to address these goals, providing an opportunity for the discussion of new treatment strategies as well as the consideration of the guidelines currently used in the management of patients suffering from severe traumatic brain and spinal cord injury. Lastly, this symposium also will provide a forum to debate contemporary problems in neuro-rehabilitation and patient follow-up.

Toward these goals, on the 13th through the 15th of May 2010 a panel of internationally recognized experts in the field of CNS injury research will meet to discuss the latest research regarding the pathobiology of CNS injury from both an experimental and clinical viewpoint. A parallel focus will center on the design and status of contemporary preclinical and clinical trials as well as the development of scientific evidence-based guidelines.

The organizers believe that - like our previous Pannonian conferences - this symposium will be highly informative and will further inspire collaborative efforts in various areas of research focusing on CNS injury and repair.

The host city of Pécs harbors a special medieval atmosphere, with most of the city included in the World's Cultural Heritage designation (UNESCO). Pécs is also a colorful and exciting Central-European city, which not accidentally has been designated the European Capital of Culture in 2010, together with Essen/Ruhr and Istanbul. Thus, Pécs lies between western and eastern capitals of culture, symbolically - half-way.

As hosts of this symposium we look forward on the tenth anniversary of our first meeting, to welcoming you to Pécs, anticipating that this meeting will again be an academic and social success!

Organizing Committee:
Tamas Doczi Pecs, Hungary
John T. Povlishock Richmond, VA
Andras Buki Pecs, Hungary

Tudományos bizottság tagjai:
Ron Hayes Alachua, FL
Kevin Wang Alachua, FL
Pal Barzo Szeged, Hungary
Robert Veres Budapest, Hungary
Gyorgy Szeifert Budapest, Hungary