Frontiers in Basic Science and Clinical Translation

The 2015 edition of the Gordon Conference on Vascular Cell Biology will extend on its 25 years tradition of excellence as a forum for cutting-edge scientific research. Discoveries in basic vascular biology research are being successfully translated in clinical applications, but among the important challenges that remain are improvement of anti-angiogenic treatments in cancer and diabetic retinopathy, and control of inflammation in atherosclerotic and other chronic vascular diseases. This conference will bring together leaders of research from basic science, translational science, biotechnology and pharmaceutical areas, to discuss progress in clinical and translational research areas and to define effective strategies to address these outstanding critical questions. The conference will present the latest research on the role of endothelium in metabolic control, cellular mechanisms underlying vascular endothelial and mural cell behavior, and their interaction with stem and immune cells in development and disease. Signaling mechanisms initiated by growth factors and biophysical forces, inflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators in relevant physiological and pathological contexts and genetic approaches to vascular disease will be discussed. Both established and up-and-coming investigators will have ample opportunities to interact informally and share views with junior investigators and trainees in a collegial and relaxed atmosphere. Researchers from various fields will be present, including cell and molecular biology, developmental biology, biochemistry, physiology, pathology, pharmacology and therapeutics. We anticipate that by promoting cross-disciplinary interactions the meeting will enhance vascular biology research and applications to clinical medicine.