The Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on the Cell Biology of Megakaryocytes and Platelets is the premier scientific meeting focused on the biology of megakaryocytes and the platelets that arise from them. This will be the 5th biennial meeting that was first organized by Steve Watson and Jon Frampton in 2005 to bring together two groups of scientists with complimentary goals and interests.

Our meeting will begin with processes governing megakaryopoiesis and thrombopoiesis, including from inducible pluripotent and embryonic stem cells, moving to novel computational and screening methods to study theses processes, transitioning to the cell biology of these cells in the context of the cytoskeleton, and then to newly identified signaling, inflammatory and immune functions in megakaryocytes and platelets. This plan then leads smoothly to a session centered on discoveries related to megakaryocyte and platelet pathology. In addition, there is a whole session devoted to presentations of Hot Topics, selected form submitted abstracts. The sessions cover within the same cluster processes that govern megakaryocyte and platelet development and function, thus, allowing convergence of two audiences with overlapping interests, further increasing exchange of perspectives. The translational potential is illustrated in a new session titled: From Bench to Bed Side, and talks, such as on novel therapeutic options for thrombocytosis associated with myeloproliferative neoplasm. Lastly, the program will include, for the first time, a session titled: Breaking Paradigms in Megakaryocyte and Platelet Biology, thus providing opportunities to learn about, and discuss new paradigms that challenge older concepts in the field. Keynote speakers at the end of the conference, Drs. Kenneth Kaushansky and Denisa Wagner, will further discuss ongoing challenges and new findings and perspectives.

This GRC is tied in with a two-day Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) for trainees interested in this field and will give them the opportunity to present their research as well as gain insights from senior academic and industry investigators in this area. A Keynote talk will focus on a historical overview of discovery in megakaryocyte/platelet biology. Abstracts submitted by trainees will be scored by a panel, and selected for oral presentations, of which some will also present under Hot Topics in the GRC. Round table discussions with investigators will provide mentoring related to careers in academia and in pharmaceutical companies.

The GRS and GRC meetings take place from March 9-10th and 10-15th, 2013, respectively, at the beautiful, historic Hotel Galvez, Galveston Island, Texas, located on the Gulf of Mexico. With the unique surroundings of wide beaches and numerous attractions on and near the island, this will be an exciting and memorable venue for all attendees.