Cell-cell fusion is a fundamental cellular event that is required for fertilization and development. It also seems to play a role in the development of some forms of cancer and in tissue repair by stem cells (Vignery, Trends in Cell Biol 15:188, 2005). While virus-cell fusion and the fusion of intracellular membranes have been the subject of intense investigation during the past decade, cell-cell fusion remains poorly understood. Given the importance of this cell-biological phenomenon, a number of investigators have begun serious analyses of the molecular mechanisms that mediate sperm-oocyte, myoblast-myoblast and macrophage-macrophage fusion. Recent genetic studies in yeast, Neurospora crassa, Caenorhabditis elegans and Drosophila are beginning to yield exciting results (Chen and Olson, Science 308:369, 2005). Most recently, fusion of bone marrow-derived cells with somatic cells, such as hepatocytes, and of cells by inside-out (flipped) SNAREs have been reported. Cell fusion has recently emerged as an event central to development, organ repair and cancer metastasis. Thus, it is a subject that deserves greater attention and a field that will surely benefit from the cross-fertilization of ideas that is the hallmark of a Gordon Conference.

The Gordon Conference format, with carefully selected presentations and ample time for discussion, has been demonstrated to be effective for promoting the exchange of information and building strong relationships between scientists, and to identify opportunities for new research at the frontiers of science. The format consists of four morning sessions of three and one half hours and four evening sessions each of three hours. Morning and evening sessions will feature three or four invited talks. These will be supplemented with short talks chosen by the discussion leaders from the abstracts submitted by participants. In addition to the oral sessions, poster sessions will allow the presentation of original results by each of the participants who so chooses. In addition to the formal presentation of oral talks and posters, informal discussions are encouraged by ample free time, relative geographic isolation of the site, and the taking of all meals together.