Molecules that Specify the Variety of Cell Death Mechanisms

In exploring the scientific frontiers of cell death, the theme of the 2008 Gordon Conference on Cell Death will be “Molecules that Specify the Variety of Cell Death Mechanisms.” The enormous (almost startling!) explosion in the cell death literature (upwards of 10,000 papers per year) clearly makes it impossible to cover all aspects of this process in a single conference. However, we have selected a series of sessions/speakers that will allow discussion of core participants in the apoptotic process (e.g. caspases, Bcl-2 proteins) as well as emerging proteins and signaling systems playing a role in other forms of cell death. Additional sessions addressing the importance of cell death for normal physiology and for the etiology of important pathologies will allow participants to discuss the physiological/pathological role played by apoptosis and the various death mechanisms.

In addition to the invited lectures from new and established investigators, several abstracts will be presented as talks, and there are an abundance of outstanding posters scheduled for presentation. To further stimulate participation, chalk talk sessions and fun outings are in the planning. All are also welcome to join the speakers and attendees for late night discussions, and the final night will be highlighted by musical presentations.