Welcome Message It is our great honor to inform you that the first meeting of Asia-Pacific Federation of Inflammation and Regeneration (APFIR2011) will be held in Kyoto, from Thursday, June 2nd to Friday, June 3rd 2011. This meeting (APFIR2011) will take place as a joint international conference with the 32nd Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Inflammation and Regeneration (JSIR2011). We host and organize an exciting program on the latest inflammation and regeneration research. The program captures the advanced research topics, with a range of speakers and participants who are experts in this area of research: inflammation, innate immunity, stem cells and regenerative medicine. Young investigators are especially encouraged to attend the conference, and to submit abstracts for AFPIR Young Investigator Symposium. Highlights of the meeting include two special lectures by Prof. Shizuo Akira and Prof. Shinya Yamanaka on their works in innate immunity and induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cell research, respectively. The venue for the APFIR2011 is located in city of Kyoto, the old capital of Japan for over a millennium. Kyoto is probably famous for its high reputation, as one of the most beautiful city in the world. You will have an opportunity to enjoy all of Kyoto’s beautiful side and traditional Japanese foods with your colleagues and family. We cordially welcome your visit to Kyoto and hope heartily discussion with speakers and other participants. We promise you will find the APFIR2011 most scientifically rewarding. Sincerely, Toshikazu Yoshikawa, M.D., Ph.D. Chairman 1st Meeting of Asian-Pacific Federation of Inflammation and Regeneration: APFIR 2011