From the Computer to the Cell: Protein Folding, Function and Evolution

The 2014 Gordon Research Conference on Protein Folding Dynamics will bring together experimentalists and theoreticians to discuss basic issues in protein folding dynamics and their role in function, in the evolution of protein sequences and in disorders associated with protein misfolding. It has become increasingly clear that understanding the details of Protein Folding Dynamics is crucial in describing virtually all processes of life, including protein synthesis, co-translational folding, protein allostery, protein function and diseases related to protein misfolding. Not only do we need to understand these processes in vitro, but additional challenges arise in our quest to understand Protein Folding Dynamics within living cells. In order to solve the fundamental problems of protein folding and dynamics a multifaceted approach is required that requires development of sophisticated new biophysical methods, advances in theory and simulation and the use of powerful methods such as NMR and other spectroscopic measurements. To explore recent exciting developments in this field this conference will bring together researchers with diverse backgrounds assembling a forum that will encourage open discussions from researchers working on different systems, apply different methods and bring together different ideas. The Gordon Research Conference in Protein Folding Dynamics was established specifically to bring experiment and theory together to explore advances in the field. The program will cover a range of topics, not restricted to, in vitro and in vivo folding, protein aggregation, protein evolution and design, and the role of protein dynamics in function. The conference will strive to encourage interactions between junior scientists and graduate students through abstract-selected presentations and posters.