The 2020 Gordon Research Conference on Lymphatics will bring together leading international scientists and clinicians working across all aspects of lymphatic vessel biology to discuss the latest advances in this exciting and dynamic field. The meeting will feature cutting edge expertise in disciplines including developmental biology, genetics, physiology, immunology, metabolism, mechanotransduction and human disease. The lymphatic vasculature has garnered immense attention over the last decade, fueled by advances in our ability to recognize and manipulate lymphatic vessels, together with discoveries that have illuminated key roles for the lymphatic vasculature in human health and disease. Sometimes referred to as the ?third circulatory system?, the principal function of the lymphatic system in regulating interstitial fluid dynamics is of direct relevance to the missions of NHLBI. The NHLBI has historically provided support to this field with regard to this particular conference, as well as Workshops and focused Program Announcements. This meeting, which includes many speakers currently funded by the NHLBI, will serve as a forum to communicate the latest research advances in this field as well as providing the opportunity to build collaborative partnerships between scientists, clinicians, disciplines, industry and philanthropy.
The lymphatic vascular system is an integral component of every major organ and is required for the maintenance of normal interstitial fluid homeostasis, immune cell trafficking, lipid absorption and wound healing, as well as the pathological processes of lymphedema and cancer metastasis. This Gordon Research Conference will focus on integrating the newest innovative techniques to explore unanswered questions in the field, including single cell RNA sequencing approaches, high-resolution imaging, new therapeutic modalities and heterogeneity in lymphatic endothelial cell form and function.
