Function of the Ocular Surface and Tear Film in Health and Disease

The 2016 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on "Biology and Pathobiology of the Cornea: Function of the Ocular Surface and Tear Film in Health and Disease" will focus on innovative research on the cornea, conjunctiva, tear film, and the glands that produce tears. Researchers and trainees will be brought together to exchange data, educate one another and foster new ideas in a GRC format that will enable cross-disciplinary discussions and the development of collaborations. As a result, this meeting will improve our understanding of cornea, conjunctiva and tear film biology and pathobiology. This enhancement in knowledge will form the foundation for the elaboration of novel therapeutic modalities for diseases resulting in ocular surface inflammation, pain and blindness. Research exploring how tissues set up boundaries and their regulation, which are crucial to maintaining the integrity and homeostasis between the conjunctiva, limbus and cornea, will be presented. Basic aspects of lacrimal gland, meibomian gland and conjunctival cell biology and physiology will be highlighted with translation into dry-eye and other ocular surface inflammatory diseases. Presentations will feature the newest concepts on pain, as well as gender-bias associated with dry eye. Etiology of corneal diseases will be highlighted, as well as novel presentations on how epithelial cell populations migrate to seal wounds, cell populations can be expanded ex vivo and aberrations in the barrier can be repaired. By bringing together investigators outside of the ocular community, such as skin and salivary gland as well as those at the forefront of ocular surface biology, the Conference will provide unique opportunities for cross-fertilization among young investigators with leaders in several fields. Several poster presenters will be selected for short talks. This is an extremely collegial Conference with ample time both in programmed discussions as well as informal afternoon and evening activities for scientists in varied disciplines and specialties to share their passion for research in the anterior surface.

The associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) is targeted for graduate students, post-doctoral fellows, early career scientists and junior faculty. As such, it provides a unique forum for these groups to discuss their research in a less intimidating environment. Features of this GRS will be a keynote address that will focus on how to maximize productivity at the bench and ultimately produce consistent high quality data. Poster sessions and short talks derived from submitted abstracts will follow. The GRS will culminate with a presentation on how to critically evaluate the literature followed by an overall discussion and evaluation session.