The Chromosome Dynamics Gordon Conference covers a broad range of topics from higher order chromosome organization to mechanisms of chromosome replication and segregation to the biophysical properties of single DNA and protein molecules. This GRC evolved from a meeting that focused on bacterial plasmid replication and segregation - the Bacterial Plasmid GRC - and has expanded its scope to encompass new topics. Today the biennial Chromosome Dynamics GRC attracts participants engaged in both prokaryotic and eukaryotic systems.

Unlike many excellent specialty meetings where experts in DNA metabolism, cell cycle progression, or gene expression delve in to the intricacies of their special realms, the Chromosome Dynamics GRC takes a different tack. It includes participants with very different specialties and methodologies who, while presenting cutting-edge work in their respective fields, recognize the interrelatedness of seemingly distant approaches to the common goal of understanding the mechanisms that organize genomes. Lively crosstalk between researchers from these diverse disciplines makes this a favorite conference for many participants.

Breakout work on chromosomes from viruses to man has been announced at past meetings. Highlights included new biochemistry and cell biology of condensins and cohesins, mechanisms of centromere specification, single-molecule studies of chromatin remodeling proteins, mechanisms of triplet repeat expansion in diseases like Fragile X Syndrome, and new roles for RNA in controlling epigenetic gene regulation.

The Chromosome Dynamics GRC is usually held in New England, but in spring 2009 it will be held in the hills of Tuscany at Il Ciocco.