New Discoveries Relevant to Cell Function, Pathophysiology and Drug Discovery

Cyclic nucleotide phosphodiesterases (PDEs), which comprise a superfamily of enzymes (i.e., PDE1 – 11), are critical regulators of cyclic AMP and cyclic GMP signaling. There is considerable interest in the role of PDEs in intracellular signaling and cellular function, as well as potential pharmacological targets for the development of novel therapeutic agents. Over the last few years, the PDE field has seen enormous progress and has undergone profound changes in concepts as new tools and technologies have become available. The 2010 Gordon Conference on Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterases will highlight cutting edge research. The conference will cover a broad range of topics, focusing on recent advances in the understanding of the structure, function, regulation, physiology, and pharmacology of the various PDE families, subtypes, and splice variants. Clinical relevance of topics discussed will include infectious diseases, neuropsychiatric illnesses, cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, metabolic disorders, and cancer. Invited speakers and session leaders will represent the entire breadth of the PDE field. A major goal of this conference is to bring together senior scientists with junior investigators, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate and undergraduate students, with representation from academia and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. It is hoped that such a gathering across disciplines and generations will provide for a stimulating exchange of ideas and the development of collaborations. Poster sessions and short talks will provide additional forums for presentation of new data and scientific interactions, particularly for newer investigators and those new to the PDE field.