The "Biology of 14-3-3 Proteins" meeting focuses on a family of highly conserved molecules - the 14-3-3 proteins - which are found in all eukaryotic cells. Following their discovery, their function remained a mystery for nearly two decades. However, in the last decade they have been rediscovered in flurry of research advances and are now beginning to be understood. The common theme describing 14-3-3 protein function is that they act by binding specific target proteins; and, that binding in many cases is regulated by phosphorylation of these targets. Through this one mode of action, 14-3-3 proteins are involved in an impressively diverse range of functions, including cell division, apoptosis, signal transduction, transmitter release, receptor function, ion channel physiology, gene expression, transmitter synthesis, and enzyme activation/protection. Currently, 14-3-3 proteins are being studied on a broad front, involving plants, yeast and vertebrates and a similarly broad range of systems and functions. It should be emphasized that the broad nature of 14-3-3 research means that investigators working on 14-3-3 proteins in the vertebrate nervous system do not typically meet with those working on in plants, thereby missing the opportunity to be stimulated by new approaches, experiences and findings from a distantly related program. This cross-fertilization will enrich research in this area by promoting discussion and enhancing the exchange of ideas and new discoveries between these scientists in the stimulating setting of a Gordon Research Conference.