Genes encoding known proteolytic enzymes constitute about 2% of the human genome (550 proteases), and are abundant at similar, or even higher levels, in the genomes of other organisms. In multicellular organisms proteases play essential roles in every aspect of cell biology, and every function of the organism. Their action varies from the very broad and indiscriminate (proteases in digestion), to the exceptionally specific, cleaving single peptide bonds in a single target protein. Recent advances in proteolysis research indicate that even proteases with considerably broad in vitro specificities have physiological functions that require the precision of a surgeon's scalpel. Therefore, it is no surprise that proteases are central to such fundamental cellular processes as the separation of sister chromatids in mitosis, control of the cell-cycle, signal-transduction, apoptosis, regulation of extracellular signaling networks. At the systemic level, defenses against infection, blood clotting, active-peptide generation, cell motility, angiogenesis, and reproduction, to name but a few, all depend on sophistically regulated proteolysis. Any disturbance of these regulatory systems, either genetic or acquired, has ruinous consequences, resulting in an array of human pathologies that include such diseases as cancer, dementia, stroke, periodontitis and arthritis. In addition, pathogens use proteases to target the host, often in very specific and extremely efficient way, as epitomized by the anthrax lethal toxin and clostridial neurotoxins.

How vibrant the field of proteolytic enzymes research is! This is best illustrated by more than 5,000 articles being published per year on the differing aspects of proteolysis. Many of these papers report ground-breaking discoveries, and it is simply impossible to cover this vast and fascinating field during one conference. The Gordon Research Conference on Proteolytic Enzymes and Their Inhibitors traditionally deals with the structure, function, regulation and pathophysiological role of these enzymes, with an emphasis on the development of novel drugs based on the inhibition of proteolysis. In many regards the 2008 Conference is no different than past meetings, and its major strength relates to the diversity of disciplines and areas of biology represented, and the balanced participation of both academic and industrial researches. In addition to reporting the latest developments in the field, a major focus of the meeting is to facilitate informal discussions and generate new collaborations.

In the spirit of Gordon Research Conferences the 2008 GRC will present the most recent and innovative research on proteases and their inhibitors, in a multidisciplinary manner. By necessity, the choice of topics is limited only to those areas in which significant advances have recently occurred. This is reflected by placing an emphasis on the regulation of proteolysis, the role of proteases in signaling, proteomics, and imaging which will be major themes of several sessions.

As with past meetings, poster sessions will be held to provide a lively and friendly environment for the presentation of new science, unsuppressed discussion, liquid exchange of ideas, establishing collegial friendships with the more senior researchers in the field, learning new methods, and establishing fruitful collaborations. Therefore, the submission of poster abstracts is a prerequisite for attendance.

The Conference will continue the great tradition of excellent science presented in a relaxed atmosphere. Colby Sawyer provides us with an ideal setting for this meeting. Dormatory, recreational, and lecture hall facilities (including a new conference center) are all, uniformly, excellent. The campus and town are classic New England, with hiking, boating, swimming, fishing and biking all readily accessible.