The Peptides Gordon Conference features fundamental science related to the synthesis, structure and function of peptides and polypeptides. The 2012 conference will emphasize cutting edge research in the area of signal transduction, peptide/membrane interactions, peptide delivery, peptides as imaging agents and peptide materials. Special attention will be given to recent advances in peptide chemistry, including ligation approaches and amide bond formation. The conference will kick off with talks by Nobel Laureate Ada Yonath, who will discuss the structure and function of the ribosome, and Samuel Danishefsky, who will discuss glycopeptide synthesis. This strong start will segue into a session featuring structural and biochemical studies on G-protein coupled receptors, including pepducins, and a session on synthetic techniques. Other sessions will emphasize peptide vaccine development, the biological function of amyloids and peptide biomaterials. The conference will feature leaders in various fields of peptide science and spotlight talks by young scientists working at the frontiers of peptide chemistry and biology. This conference will foster discussion of basic research and contemporary applications of peptides and polypeptides in a relaxed yet stimulating setting, which should maximize interchange and cross-fertilization.

A new feature in 2012 will be the first Gordon Research Seminar in concert with the Peptide GRC. This seminar will precede the GRC, is being organized and run by graduate students and postdocs and will feature talks from this population of peptide scientists. This is an outstanding opportunity to provide the future leaders of our discipline with a unique platform from which to disseminate their results and ideas and to meet with their peers.