Transglutaminases are a family of structurally and functionally related proteins that are widely distributed in all living organisms. There has been a recent surge in findings supporting that dysregulated expression and function of transglutaminases contribute to pathological conditions, such as cancer metastasis, tissue fibrosis, celiac disease, neurodegenerative disorders, and diseases related to defective assembly of the stratum corneum of the skin. The 2nd Gordon Conference on "Transglutaminases in Human Disease Processes" will focus on this rapidly expanding field. The meeting will cover cutting-edge research on the biology of transglutaminases and their role in health and disease processes. Sessions will cover recent advances relating to the following topics:

• Transglutaminases in growth, development, and differentiation
• Transglutaminases as regulators of cell survival and cell death modalities
• Transglutaminases in cancer development and metastasis processes
• Transglutaminases and cell signal transduction
• Transglutaminases in physiological and pathological inflammation
• Transglutaminases in celiac, neurodegeneration, and cardiovascular disease
• Transglutaminases-induced matrix remodeling in health and disease
• Transglutaminases as therapeutic targets
• Transglutaminases as a tool for biotechnology

Major focus of this conference is to bring together an international group of experts and new investigators working in this rapidly expanding field with a goal of presenting and discussing the most recent advances in the field. Each talk will be structured to include ample time for discussion. Discussion will cover key issues of current relevance to the field and the implications of the work for future development of this area. Particular attention will be dedicated to fostering open informal debate among attendees during all the meeting. In particular, this conference is designed to provide an opportunity for young investigators to participate and interact with established experts in the field.