Novel Techniques in the Study of Extracellular Proteolysis

The Gordon Research Seminar on Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis is a unique forum for graduate students, post-docs, and other scientists with comparable levels of experience and education to present and exchange new data and cutting edge ideas.

The focus of this meeting is to explore the integration of novel techniques in the study of plasminogen activators and other extracellular proteases. These proteins impact a wide array of biological processes, and this conference will span from studies on molecular mechanisms to translational research and biomedical applications. Topics will include, but are not limited to, the roles of extracellular proteases in cancer, metabolism and aging, cardiovascular function, musculoskeletal disease, infection, and neuroscience, with the unifying theme of how we can integrate new technology or apply established technologies in new ways to address key knowledge gaps. Thus, applicants will be selected for talks based on integration of new technology or approaches and on the merit of their overarching question.

Special sessions will include: 1) a keynote presentation addressing key knowledge gaps in the field of extracellular proteolysis and plasminogen activation, exploring why they exist and how we can fill them, and 2) a mentoring session focused on rigor and reproducibility where senior and mid-career investigators will advise trainees on how to avoid common mistakes in this field, and discuss how new and improved techniques and tools can clarify remaining questions and prevent future discrepancies.