DNA and RNA Metabolism: Fundamental Biological Mechanisms with Key Intersections

The Gordon Research Conference on Nucleic Acids consistently provides a premier forum to present and discuss fundamental discoveries in nucleic acids biology, which have impacted nearly every facet of biology with wide ranging implications for human health. The overarching long-term goal of this conference is to create a scientific environment conducive to cross-disciplinary discussion and exchange of new ideas by bringing together the world’s leading researchers with junior scientists, to enhance our understanding of the role of nucleic acids in biology, human health and disease. The 2015 Nucleic Acids GRC will convene leading experts that cover diverse and emerging areas that encompass DNA and RNA biology in eight broadly classified areas of nucleic acids research with a view toward highlighting emerging concepts and technologies in these fields. Specific topics will include: Mechanisms of Homologous Recombination; DNA Replication and Genome Integrity; RNA/DNA Structure and Dynamics; Chromatin and Transcription; RNA/DNA in Cellular Defense; Post-transcriptional Regulation; RNA/DNA Conflicts; Non-Coding RNAs; and Telomere Structure and Function. The Nucleic Acids Gordon Research Conference is unique in bringing the RNA and DNA fields together, and the 2015 meeting will in particular highlight the emerging interfaces between RNA and DNA biology such as the impact of R-loops or rNTP incorporation during DNA replication on genome stability. Moreover, the conference showcases the latest technological advances, including single molecule approaches and the universally applicable CRISPR/Cas9 technology for genomic engineering. Particular emphasis is placed on encouraging young scientists to attend and present at this meeting, with ample time specifically allotted in the schedule for short talks selected from submitted abstracts and four poster sessions.