GPCRs: From Single Molecules to New Forms of Treatment

The Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Molecular Pharmacology will highlight the most recent advances in the area of G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), both at the molecular and translational (drug development) level. Topics will include new high-resolution structural investigations, single molecule studies, mechanisms involved in GPCR signaling, compartmentation, and activation, and studies of novel physiological and pathophysiological roles of specific GPCRs. Particular focus will be put on the identification of druggable targets for several important diseases, including various diseases of the CNS, diabetes, and obesity, and the use of emerging new technologies useful for drug development. Experts from neighboring fields will present new technologies and approaches not yet widely used in the GPCR field.

The program will include the following general areas: i) novel GPCR structures and potential clinical relevance, ii) single molecule studies, iii) GPCR signaling and compartmentation, iv) novel technologies for GPCR research and drug development, v) GPCR signaling in physiology and disease with primary emphasis on identifying new drug targets, and (vi) diversity of GPCR ligands and resulting clinical implications.

The GRC on Molecular Pharmacology is one of the key meetings in the GPCR field. The 2017 meeting will take place in the heart of Tuscany, Italy (near Pisa/Lucca). This meeting generally attracts an enthusiastic and diverse group of students, postdoctoral fellows and faculty at all stages to create a scientifically exciting and collegial atmosphere to advance novel ideas and concepts in the GPCR field. The meeting will also feature several informal interactive sessions to encourage interactions between junior and senior participants.