Intermediate filament (IF) proteins are encoded by one of the largest gene families in man. They have attracted considerable attention because mutations in IF genes cause, according to their tissue-specific expression, a large variety of severe human diseases. Most notably, mutations affecting the nuclear intermediate filament proteins lamin A and C lead to a stunning multitude of disease entities ranging from muscular dystrophies to premature ageing. In order to obtain more insight into IF-dependent cellular functions and disease entities, various cell culture systems and animal models, in particular transgenic mice, have been generated. Complementary to this field-wide “bench-to-bed” enterprise an arsenal of biophysical techniques is being applied to IFs aimed at dissecting the structure, assembly and mechanics of single filaments at atomic detail.

The upcoming Gordon Research Conference on “Intermediate Filaments” will continue to highlight the translational research on human diseases caused by mutations in IF genes in parallel to the basic research on the properties and function of IF proteins. It will focus on the biology and disease conditions of two IF classes: the nuclear lamins and the neurofilament proteins. The biology of keratins and desmin in relation to disease will be treated to complement insights gained for the former classes of IF proteins. More general topics such as the role of IF proteins in signaling, their role as biomechanical elements of cells, and their integration into the cytoskeleton via associated proteins are also covered. In addition to the invited speakers, a considerable number of speakers will be selected from the submitted abstracts. Importantly, the program has been scheduled to leave ample time for discussion during the individual sessions.