2024 Protein Processing, Secretion, and Trafficking Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar - PROJECT SUMMARY Approximately 30% of human genes encode proteins in the secretory pathway, highlighting its central role in numerous cellular functions, including cellular homeostasis, growth, and development. The secretory pathway controls immunity, metabolism, neurotransmission, tissue integrity, and cellular communication in a multicellular organism. Consequently, it is at the heart of many human diseases, including neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and cystic fibrosis, and behavioral disorders like autism and schizophrenia linked to disruptions in the secretory pathway. Furthermore, conditions including cancer, obesity, and endocrine diseases, most notably diabetes, are intricately tied to the proper functioning of this pathway. The Protein Processing, Trafficking, and Secretion GRC will offer topics to synergize the cell biology of protein transport with disease pathology, including the following topics: Protein folding and misfolding in the ER, signaling in the secretory pathway, lipid trafficking, targeted protein degradation, EM-tomography of the secretory pathway, unconventional protein secretion, biomolecular condensation, neurological disorders, autophagy, and modern aspects of the cell biology and pathology of diabetes. The unique combination of topics paired with lectures about novel high-end technologies will fill a crucial gap in the scientific landscape that may promote the therapeutic targeting of these diseases. The conference strongly emphasizes the inclusion of trainees and demonstrates exceptional commitment to their participation. In 2022, 55% of the attendees were students and postdocs (compared to the GRC average of 41%), while only 27% were full professors. Another focus will be on diversity and inclusion to further build on substantial efforts since 2018. The 2022 conference witnessed a balanced gender ratio, with 48.5% female and 51.49% male attendees (compared to 36% female in 2018). In the 2024 conference, our confirmed speakers will comprise 37% women and 7% individuals from underrepresented groups (African American and Hispanic American). We have set up a strategic plan to increase these numbers by 17 reserved speaker slots for short presentations selected from submitted abstracts, prioritizing trainees, investigators from underrepresented groups, and early-stage researchers. The conference venue is Colby Sawyer College in New London, NH. It provides excellent facilities for a low cost. The venue is a pleasant environment free from the distractions of an urban setting, providing ample time and space for informal interactions. Historically, this has resulted in numerous collaborations and extensive networking. For young scientists, this leads to valuable career-long relationships.
