The 2010 Gordon Research Conference on Microbial Toxins and Pathogenicity is an outstanding forum to acquire cutting-edge knowledge on microbial pathogenesis. Conference organization includes seminars on the basic mechanisms of microbial pathogenesis, addressing primarily bacterial systems, with seminar sessions on toxin biochemistry and biogenesis, molecular and cellular pathogenesis, interactions of bacteria with plants and lower eukaryotes, and infection and immunity. Seminars will also be presented that translate knowledge of basic mechanisms into therapeutic advances. Speakers include both established and junior investigators. Seminar sessions are chaired by prominent researchers who will provide an overview of the session topic and place the speakers' work into the context of the session. Discussions provide an opportunity for the exchange of new ideas and perspectives. In addition to the seminar sessions, the conference includes well-attended and interactive poster sessions. The 2010 conference will be preceded by the Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Microbial Toxins and Pathogenicity. The GRS is planned by and for post-doctoral and pre-doctoral trainees who study microbial pathogenesis and provides an opportunity for our future leaders to present their research as seminars and posters in a collegial and interactive environment. Attendance at the GRS has added a great value to the Gordon Research Conference experience for these junior investigators.