Molecules and Mechanisms From Normal Biology to Cancer

Not only do the mammary glands define what it is to be mammalian, but they also impact all aspects of mammalian survival and human existence, not only through their ability to synthesize and secrete a complex and glorious mixture of nutrients, but also by modifying the daily lives of humans afflicted by breast cancer. This 2023 GRC meeting represents an exciting milestone - the 50th anniversary of a Gordon Research Conference dedicated to the field of mammary gland biology. Fifty years ago (plus 2 years for Covid!) the meeting was known as the “Biology of Milk” to reflect all the unknown biology and biochemistry underlying this perfect food. In the present day, the meeting is entitled “Mammary Gland Biology” to reflect how much more we now understand, and seek to learn, on the many fronts involving this fascinating organ – from the wonders of developmental biology and the contributions of molecular genetics and models, to the complicated and challenging front of diagnosing, treating, and seeking to cure, breast cancer. The 2023 GRC on Mammary Gland Biology will reflect on all the accomplishments, trainees and friends this field has created, and its impact on so many levels. At the same time, the meeting will be an important opportunity to define where the field goes in the next 50 years, the questions that remain, and the advances that might be yet to come. The program will highlight the most recent cutting edge advances in a range of areas from how the mammary gland develops, the origins of breast cancer and how it is treated, the marvels of milk, through to the range of clinical- and wide-ranging applications that stem from research on this fundamental organ.