PROJECT SUMMARY
Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) and their receptors (FGFRs) regulate almost all aspects of embryonic
development, and are key regulators of homeostatic, metabolic and tissue repair processes in adult tissues.
Accordingly, abnormal FGF signaling results in a wide-range of diseases including genetic diseases, neurological
disorders, metabolic diseases, inflammatory syndromes, and cancer. The field of FGF signaling, therefore, unites
diverse biomedical disciplines that significantly impact human health. The overall goal of this proposal is to
galvanize multidisciplinary interactions between academic and industrial scientists, clinicians, and
trainees with a common interest in Fibroblast Growth Factor biology to accelerate the pace and enhance
the impact of our research on human health. To achieve this goal, financial support is sought for the 9th
Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on FGFs in Development and Disease and its associated 6th Gordon
Research Seminar (GRS) to be held at the Grand Galvez in Galveston, Texas on March 23rd- 29th, 2024. The
GRC/GRS on FGFs in Development and Disease is a unique opportunity to unite an international group of
researchers with diverse scientific backgrounds, promote the exchange of tools and ideas, and forge new
collaborations. At the 2024 conference entitled “Expanding the Frontiers of FGF Signaling: Fundamental
Mechanisms of Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Signaling and their Clinical Applications”, our specific aims are to (1)
emphasize new innovations that impact our mechanistic understanding of FGF-related diseases and their
therapeutic advancement, including the crosstalk with other Receptor Tyrosine Kinases; (2) encourage scientific
discussions and new collaborations among trainees, academic and industry scientists, and clinicians, and (3)
grow our existing network of innovators and enhance diversity in future generations of FGF researchers. To
maximize the success of the 2024 meeting, the program places particular importance on balanced representation
(geographic, gender, ethnicity, career level, and discipline) in both the speakers and attendees. Moreover, a
‘Power Hour’ is dedicated to discussing current obstacles to and novel approaches for promoting wider
participation of women and other under-represented groups in science.
