2024 Metals in Medicine Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar - PROJECT SUMMARY The Metals in Medicine Gordon Research Conference and the inaugural Gordon Research Seminar (MiM GRC/GRS) bring together leading academic and industrial researchers from around the world. The GRS is chaired by two senior postdoctoral fellows and provides a forum for trainees to present talks and exchange ideas. These companion conferences will explore the role metal ions, their complexes, and metal-binding macromolecules play in the scope of human health. The objectives of the 2024 MiM GRC, “Fostering Connections from Inorganic Chemistry to Diagnosing and Treating Disease” and the 2024 MiM GRS “The Future of Metals in Medicine: Empowering Young Scientists through Connection” are reflected in the following specific aims: Aim 1) Advance research on metal complexes, metal-containing bioconjugates, and metal-complexed macromolecules to develop novel, transformative, agents for use in the diagnosis, imaging, and treatment of disease. Presentations range from basic science to clinical-translation of metal-based agents for diagnosis and therapy. Sessions will include “Radiation Protection”, “Metal-based Therapeutics for Infectious Diseases”, “Drug Delivery and Targeted Therapies” and “Clinical Advances”. Aim 2) Present the latest findings on the role that metals play in mechanisms of both the pathological basis for disease and how to incorporate this in designing new medical treatments. Presentations will focus on the role of metals in disease and treatments. Sessions on basic science include “Stimuli-responsive Metallodrugs as Emerging Therapeutics” and “Advances in Metallomics”. Speakers in the session “Unconventional Metal-based Therapeutics” will discuss unique metallodrugs targeting diseases through cytoprotective means and those that battle chemoresistance. Aim 3) Provide a stimulating and dynamic gathering to engage and inspire early career scientists of diverse backgrounds. The session “Addressing Health Disparities and Increasing Diversity and Inclusion in Biomedical Research” will highlight advances in the study of biological determinants in health disparities, and the use of improved disease models. Strategies to increase recruitment, inclusion and retention of researchers of underrepresented backgrounds (specific racial ethnic backgrounds, LGBTQIA+ groups, disadvantaged individuals, individuals, with disabilities) will also be discussed. “Poster Previews” feature postdoctoral fellows and graduate students giving brief oral presentations on “Why you should visit my poster”. The “Power Hour” will address issues around career advancement for STEM women scientists and other underrepresented groups. The GRS will have a panel discussion on mental health in academia. The combination of formal and informal activities and interactions offer support and mentoring for the professional growth of the meeting participants.
