Mechanisms of Intrinsic and Induced Genome Instability

The 2018 Gordon Research Conference on Mutagenesis will focus on the causes and consequences of mutagenesis, addressing topics ranging from the fundamental molecular mechanisms of mutagenesis through the roles of mutagenesis in biology and disease to the exploitation of mutagenesis and mutagenic mechanisms for therapy.

Our genomes are continuously challenged by both extrinsic and intrinsic stressors that can compromise our genetic information by inducing mutations, permanent changes to the genome that can range from single nucleotide alterations to complex chromosomal rearrangements. Genome stresses resulting in damage to DNA may come from both environmentally-derived sources, such as sunlight and alkylating agents, and from endogenous metabolic processes, for instance reactive aldehydes. In addition, events on the DNA itself, such as the formation of secondary structures or collisions between the replication and transcription machineries can trigger DNA damage. How cells deal with these challenges is a critical determinant of whether mutations are created. Increased mutagenesis can lead to cancer and premature aging, and is a contributing factor to many other human disorders, including several neurodegenerative, developmental and autoimmune diseases. At the same time, mutagenesis is central to several important, beneficial natural processes including evolution, antibody diversification and antiviral immunity. This conference will cover a wide range of contemporary research themes in genome instability and mutagenesis, drawing on studies using a diverse range of systems and experimental approaches. The conference will include pre-arranged talks by leaders in the field as well as ample time for talks selected from the abstracts, discussion and networking between participants.