Overview

The Gordon Research Conference on the Cell Biology of Megakaryocytes and Platelets is the premier scientific meeting focused on the biology of megakaryocytes and the platelets that arise from them. This will be the 3rd biennial meeting that was first organized by Steve Watson and Jon Frampton in 2005 to bring together two groups of scientists with complimentary goals and interests.

Our meeting will focus on state-of-the-art advances in transcriptional regulation of hematopoietic stem cell differentiation into the megakaryocyte lineage, unique biological events of platelet formation, pharmacological advances in regulating these processes, and signaling events regulating platelet function in hemostasis, thrombosis and inflammation. An opening session will focus on the application of new technologies to megakaryocytes and platelets. Three sessions will consider megakaryocyte generation, including roles of new genes, lineage specific gene activation, platelet biogenesis, and advances in thrombopoietin-based therapies. Three sessions will also be devoted to vascular signals that activate platelets, including mechanisms of differential granule release, new roles for receptors and new signaling molecules, and platelet contributions to inflammatory diseases. “Hot topics” sessions will allow junior and senior investigators to present short oral reports. Four poster sessions will also be scheduled, giving junior and senior investigators an effective forum to network and exchange ideas. A closing session will include special guests who will speak on topics of interest to both megakaryocyte and platelet researchers.

This meeting takes place from March 15-20, 2009 at the beautiful, historic Hotel Galvez, Galveston Island, Texas, located on the Gulf of Mexico. With the unique surroundings of wide beaches and numerous attractions on the island, this will be an exciting and memorable venue for all conference attendees.