Homeostasis, Regeneration and Disease in Diverse Epithelia

The goal of the Gordon Research Conference on Epithelial Differentiation and Keratinization is to provide a stimulating forum for the dissemination and discussion of new research, concepts and opportunities at the forefront of epidermal and epithelial biology. Since its inception in 1979, this conference has fostered interactions among clinical and basic scientists. The epidermis and its appendages have historically been a central focus, but the 2011 conference will include discussion of additional epithelial tissues and models. The aims of the Conference are to define the most important problems and opportunities at the frontiers of epithelial biology; further the development of young investigators; and introduce new concepts and advances from other fields. To accomplish these goals, the program for 2011 emphasizes exciting new research on the epidermal barrier; regulation and therapeutic applications of skin stem cells; the role of the immune system in epithelial biology and disease; signaling in epithelial homeostasis and cancer; and novel mechanisms involving regulatory RNAs, chromatin remodeling, and adhesion. We are assembling an international cadre of outstanding participants including basic researchers and clinicians, young and established scientists, and scientists from academia and industry, in an atmosphere conducive to the free exchange of ideas. One oral session will be entirely devoted to presentation of submitted abstracts to ensure that the program reflects exciting new topics emerging in the weeks preceding the Conference.