The 2012 Gordon Research Conference on Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis will feature the latest research related to extracellular and cell surface associated proteolysis. Because extracellular and cell surface associate proteolytic events are important in many physiologic and pathologic processes, this conference will provide a unique opportunity for scientists from different disciplines to present and discuss their latest proteolysis related research, and to benefit from the perspectives of those in other disciplines in understanding the regulation and effects of extracellular proteolytic processes. Broad representation by investigators from a range of disciplines will allow participants to discuss innovative ways to translate their research into new therapies and to understand fundamental biologic mechanisms. Research areas to be discussed include protease triggered signaling, central nervous system function and dysfunction, epithelial barrier function and dysfunction, tissue homeostasis and regeneration, stem cell biology, tumor biology and therapy, angiogenesis, hemostasis, vascular biology, and metabolic regulation. This conference has a long history of collegial interactions by highly motivated participants with diverse scientific backgrounds who engage in energetic, creative, and productive discussions that have driven important advances in understanding the roles of extracellular proteases in physiology and disease, and in development of effective therapies.