The 2013 Gordon Conference on Vascular Cell Biology will continue the tradition of excellence since its inauguration 25 years ago. Through rapid basic science discoveries, the field has entered into translational research and therapeutic arenas. Yet, significant challenges remain, such as resistance to anti-angiogenic therapeutics in cancer, effective control of vascular inflammation in atherosclerotic vascular disease and chronic inflammatory diseases, just to name a few. Cutting-edge research on developmental cues and gradients, stem/ progenitor differentiation into vascular lineages, vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell interactions with biophysical forces, gases and extracellular matrix as well as inflammatory cytokines and lipid mediators will be presented. Importantly, progress in clinical and translational research areas will be discussed to address the critical questions, for example, "Can anti-angiogenic therapeutic strategy effectively control cancer?" and "can control of vascular inflammation inhibit progression of the atherosclerotic vascular disease?" This conference will bring together leaders of research from basic science, translational science, biotechnology and pharmaceutical areas. Both established and up-and-coming investigators from a variety of fields including biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, genomics, physiology, pathology, experimental medicine, pharmacology and therapeutics will be present. Junior investigators and trainees will have ample opportunities to interact and share views informally with senior scientists in a collegial and relaxed atmosphere. It is anticipated that the meeting will promote cross-disciplinary interactions and thereby enhance vascular biology research and applications to clinical medicine.