Molecules, Pathways, and Physiology of Endosomes, Lysosomes and Lysosome-Related Organelles

The Gordon Research Conference on Lysosomes and Endocytosis will highlight recent advances in understanding the function and molecular regulation of endocytic trafficking pathways, biogenesis of lysosomes and related organelles, and the impact of these pathways on cell and organismal physiology. The inter-related network of organelles that constitute the endo-lysosomal system serves as a cellular entry point for nutrients, as well as pathogens. Recent research has revealed endosomes and lysosomes as hubs for inter- and intra-cellular signaling networks that control nutrient homeostasis, cell growth and differentiation, thus highlighting the remarkable degree to which these organelles regulate animal physiology. Moreover, as a degradative compartment, lysosomes provides a key line of defense against infection by parasites, viruses, as well as offer protection from the harmful effects of damaged organelles and misfolded proteins.

Topics of focus for the 2018 meeting include molecular mechanisms and cell biology of lysosomes, exosomes, and endocytic and degradative pathways, and the roles of these organelles and pathways in human health and disease. Sessions will cover molecular features of endocytic membrane traffic such as coat formation, membrane remodeling, functions of lipids, and on cell physiology including endosomal and lysosomal membrane traffic, autophagy and the formation of organelle contact sites. Other sessions will focus on the roles of endocytic pathways in diabetes and metabolism, neuronal biology, immunity, and regulation of signaling in cancer and finally, on mechanisms of endocytosis across different species. The conference will continue to feature a session on 'New Directions' in which novel technical and conceptual developments in the field will be discussed. The meeting is divided into nine half-day sessions, comprising a mixture of invited speakers and those selected from abstracts. Attendance by under-represented minorities, students, postdoctoral fellows, junior faculty, and faculty from primarily undergraduate institutions is encouraged.

Prior to, and in association with, the Gordon Research Conference, there will be a Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Lysosomes and Endocytosis for students and post-doctoral researchers. Junior researchers will present their work to each other in talks and posters. The GRS provides an excellent opportunity to develop collaborations and scientific relationships with peers prior to the arrival of more senior investigators. Interested trainees are encouraged to view the web site and to consider attending.