Abstract

Cell proliferation involves precise execution and intricate regulation of numerous molecular events. Genetic and functional defects in the pathways that control cell proliferation are directly implicated in diseases such as cancer. Recent progress in illuminating this complexity has come via novel approaches for manipulating and monitoring gene expression, protein stability, and metabolism. This work has revealed novel connections between the cell cycle, signal transduction, stem cell expansion and differentiation, and propensity for malignant transformation, and has also spurred the pursuit of novel targeted therapies, such as the CDK4/6 inhibitors currently in clinical trials. The Conference will focus on the fundamental mechanisms of normal and abnormal cell proliferation, how the cell cycle is regulated in various physiologic and pathologic states, and how that modulation affects development, tissue regeneration, cancer and other diseases. A wide variety of model experimental systems will be represented. Speakers will present a breadth of recent unpublished studies on topics including cell cycle control, protein degradation, signaling pathways driving cell proliferation, cancer, aging, and opportunities for therapeutic intervention. The chairs will gather an outstanding and diverse group of scientists from academia and industry who are at the forefront of research, and we will highlight younger scientists. Approximately half the talks will be selected from the submitted abstracts. Short talks will be selected from submitted abstracts, and speakers will be notified by mid-June 2021. We strongly encourage students and postdocs to attend the associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) that immediately precedes the GRC to present their findings and to network with other trainees and field leaders.