Tuesday, April 29, 2025
4/29/2025
2025 Germinal Stem Cell Biology Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar - PROJECT SUMMARY Germline stem cells (GSC) are the precursor cells that give rise to gametes (sperm and eggs) for sexual reproduction. While GSCs are technically unipotent (giving rise exclusively to gametes), they maintain latent totipotency, ultimately producing the zygote from which all somatic cells of the body will develop. Thus, further understanding of GSC biology will shed light on important aspects of cell biology, cell fate specification, genetics, and epigenetics, whilst also underpinning our ability to prevent or cure a wealth of human and animal diseases. Furthermore, our rapidly improving ability to manipulate these cells in vitro holds promise for major advancements in reproductive technologies, regenerative medicine, and treatments for infertility and genetic disorders. The biannual Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Germinal Stem Cells aims to bring the world’s leading scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and clinicians together to focus exclusively on GSCs, their origins, their sex-specific maintenance and function, the generation of their progeny via gametogenesis and, finally, the scientific advances in GSC biology that will lead us towards innovations in the culture, propagation and manipulation of GSCs for clinical applications. This proposal seeks partial funding for this critical meeting, along with its accompanying trainee-led Gordon Research Seminar (GRS). The GRC/GRS Germinal Stem Cell Meetings will take place at the Rey Don Jaime Hotel, Barcelona, Spain on April 27th to May 2nd April 27/28th, respectively. The location of this meeting in Europe, close to a major international airport, optimizes travel from across the globe, as reflected by previous participation (35% USA, 40% Europe, 25% Asia/Australasia). The specific aims are: (1) To convene an international and diverse group of up to 200 researchers to share the latest innovations in the field, with equal focus on the most impactful recent fundamental research findings and on the latest innovations and cutting-edge technologies that can be used to address the questions that remain in the field; (2) To define the current state of the field with respect to translating our basic research findings, leveraging the potential of GSCs for improving fertility in aging individuals, and for those not capable of producing healthy gametes of their own; and (3) To continue to enhance diversity and inclusion in our field by proactively encouraging participation by junior faculty and trainees from historically excluded BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) communities, as well as those with disabilities. To achieve these aims, a program of 9 plenary sessions and 4 poster sessions will allow leaders in the field, rising stars, and trainees to interact in an informal setting that optimizes interactions and encourages younger participants to engage in critical discussions with leaders in the field. An open forum Power Hour will be convened to address the challenges faced in our scientific community and to seek new ways to improve diversity and inclusion in our field. The accompanying GRS) allows 60 trainee participants to discuss their research in an informal setting, network, and acclimatize to the environment of an international meeting ahead of the full GRC convening.
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