Proteoglycans of the cell surface and extracellular matrix are continually emerging in new roles as this exciting field expands into all aspects of cell biology and human disease. The field is engaged in understanding the intricate structure of the proteoglycan glycosaminoglycan chains, the means by which they are synthesized and degraded within the cell, and the manner by which they regulate the signaling of growth factors and cytokines, as well as drive extracellular matrix assembly mechanisms that control organ morphogenesis and disease. Intense focus is also on interactions of the families of proteoglycan core proteins with other matrix partners in connective tissues and with neighboring receptors at the cell surface. These interactions are essential for organ form and function, establish signaling pathways that control cell behavior, and are targets for disruption by pathological mechanisms and inflammation that lead to aging and disease.

The Proteoglycan Gordon Conference boasts a dynamic, close-knit, collaborative and welcoming international community of scientists. The week of the Conference will be spent in sessions with active question/answer periods, poster presentations and social activities aimed at exchanging new ideas, information and technologies, and encouraging the participation of conferees of all levels of expertise.