This one-day conference (1st July 2011) highlights the most exciting developments in basic science and translational aspects of Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) research in the UK and worldwide. In addition to plenary talks from internationally renowned speakers, the program is structured to include 4-6 oral paper presentations selected from submitted abstracts. The meeting has provided a lively forum for networking, discussion and debate for approximately 200 delegates worldwide, particularly helping UK researchers to play a prominent role in this active field of stem cell research. All delegates are encouraged to submit abstracts for poster presentation.