The Gordon Vascular Biology conferences have been inaugurated 21 years ago and have become a highly anticipated event in the field. The study of vascular biology continues to proceed at a remarkable pace. Many new molecules relevant to vascular development and angiogenesis have been discovered in the last 2 years. Importantly, advances in vascular biology have contributed to the development of many new therapies and preventive strategies.

The 2009 conference will cover a variety of traditional as well as novel vascular biology topics including development of the vascular system, cell-cell and cell-matrix communications, proteoglycans and the vasculature, intracellular signaling, vascular permeability and maintenance, and hypoxia and metabolic regulation. The meeting will bring together speakers, discussants and participants that represent a wide range of disciplines, approaches and systems. The small size of the conference and the informal atmosphere will facilitate discussion and interactions. The theme of the conference makes it highly relevant to scientists working in various disciplines such as developmental, cell and molecular biology, genetics, cell signaling, and immunology among others, as well physicians and scientists seeking better understanding and treatment of various disease processes including cancer, cardiovascular disease and inflammation.