Phagocyte Functions Through Life: Development, Defense and Disease

The 2019 Phagocytes Gordon Research Conference will bring together scientists from around the world to discuss the most recent advances in the field. Invited speakers will present their latest unpublished research related to the many facets of phagocyte biology that impact multicellular organisms throughout their lifespan. Featured topics will include macrophage influences on tissue development, cytokines and their generation, cell death mechanisms, phagocytosis, host-pathogen interactions, the functional and phenotypic plasticity of phagocytes in different tissue environments and exciting advances in our understanding of microbiome-phagocyte interactions and the impact of aging on phagocyte function. The role of phagocyte dysfunction on prevalent diseases will also be discussed in the meeting. The program is designed to encourage vigorous discussion and the free exchange of ideas. Thus, each scientific session will be chaired by a prominent researcher who will highlight recent progress and knowledge gaps related to each topic, and guide subsequent discussion. As participation of junior scientists is a key goal of the meeting, the conference will also include interactive "Poster Preview" sessions for presentation of ~100 posters, and additional speakers will be chosen from among the submitted abstracts. The collegial atmosphere of this conference is exemplified by the shared meals, and the substantial time provided for informal gatherings in the afternoons and evenings to further promote interactions between attendees at all levels. The overall environment is therefore designed to provide multiple opportunities for learning and for the development of exciting collaborations.

To facilitate the participation of students and postdoctoral fellows, the conference will be preceded by a Gordon Research Seminar (GRS). The Phagocytes GRS is planned by and for trainees, and proves an opportunity for our future leaders to present their research via seminars and posters in a supportive and interactive environment. The GRS has been well received and adds substantial value to the Gordon Research Conference experience for these junior investigators.