Nucleic acids are the core of life. The Gordon Research Conference on Nucleic Acids has played a key historical role in the development of molecular biology. In 2007, we continue the long tradition of mixing speakers in areas of DNA and RNA biology, chemistry and biophysics. These crossroads nurture innovation, creativity and discovery. Keynote Lectures presented by Jacqueline Barton, speaking on DNA charge transport, and Ignacio Tinoco, speaking on RNA structural investigations, will open the meeting on Sunday evening. A total of 8 sessions will be held over the next 4 days, including many of the world’s leading scientists in nucleic acids research. Topics will include transcription initiation and activation, recognition and processing of DNA damage, DNA dynamics and the nucleosome, translation and its regulation, splicing, RNA interference, ribozymes and riboswitches, and a novel session on emerging technologies leading to synthetic biology. While the sessions represent a broad survey of the nucleic acids field, each dives into considerable depth. An overview of the questions defining the frontier of each topic will be provided by the session chair. Sessions will occur in the morning and evening with afternoons free for poster sessions and discussion among participants. The Nucleic Acids Gordon Conference has central importance in disseminating new information to the broader community of nucleic acid biologists and chemists and is an important vehicle to engage students and young researchers into the community.