The Role of Cell Polarity Networks in Development, Growth Control, and Regeneration

Cell polarity is a fundamental aspect of cellular organization that is key to the understanding of cell shape and function. Consequently, many processes in development, homeostasis, stem cells, and tissue regeneration are crucially dependent on normal cell polarity. Conversely, faulty cell polarity contributes to many diseases such as birth defects, blindness, kidney disease, and cancer. The recognition that cell polarity, and defects in polarization, are of such broad biological importance has led to an explosion of interest in this area, with currently approximately 24,000 papers identified on PubMed.

The Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Cell Polarity Signaling was first held in 2014 and 2016. In 2018, we will have more than 30 invited speakers and discussion leaders including established investigators, young PIs, and a strong representation of women. Invited speakers and discussion leaders do not overlap with the 2016 GRC reflecting the breadth and depth of the field. Also 15 short talks will be selected from the poster abstracts, to provide multiple opportunities for presentation of the latest findings. Sessions will cover topics such as cell polarity in development, tissue organization, stem cells, wound healing and other regenerative processes, and growth regulation and cancer.

A Gordon Research Seminar (GRS), organized by and for trainees, was added in 2016 and immediately precedes the GRC. The 2018 GRS will assemble 45 – 50 graduate students and postdoctoral trainees to present and discuss their research in sessions that are guided by a small number of more senior researchers. Overall, the upcoming Conference and Seminar at Mt. Snow Resort in VT will provide an exciting combination of basic and translational research topics in cell polarity as it relates to development, homeostasis, and disease. We are looking forward to presentations and discussions of cutting edge research in cell polarity that will create new ideas and collaborations to move the field forward.