The plasminogen activation system and other proteolytic system that operate in the pericellular environment are essential regulators of cell signaling and extracellular matrix remodeling during development, homeostasis, tissue remodeling, and tissue regeneration. Furthermore, the aberrant activity of these proteolytic systems is intimately associated with the genesis or progression of some of the most important human diseases, including cardiovascular disease, central nervous system disorders, and cancer. With their extracellular location and documented causal roles in pathogenesis, these proteolytic systems provide excellent targets for pharmacological intervention aimed at improving human health. The GRC brings together the leading researchers in this area for a highly interactive and informative meeting in a casual atmosphere. Topics will include thrombolysis and fibrinolysis, vascular biology, central nervous system function and dysfunction, tissue homeostasis and regeneration, hematopoiesis, stem cell biology, metabolism and obesity, tumor biology, angiogenesis, and more.

Students and Postdoctoral Fellows will serve as Co-Discussion Leaders of all Sessions. Eight to ten talks will be selected from the submitted abstracts. The deadline for abstract submission is January 14, 2010. In addition to oral presentations, there will be two Poster Sessions that will feature prizes for best presentations by Students and Postdoctoral Fellows. Minorities can seek support for participation through a Carl Storm Underrepresented Minority Fellowship.

As a new feature, a Gordon-Kenan Research Seminar (GRS), specifically for Students and Postdoctoral Fellows within this field, will be held in immediate conjunction with the GRC. Please join us in 2010!