This is a proposal for support for a Gordon Research Conference on Taste and Smell to be held July 13-17, 1987. The Gordon Conference on this topic is held every third year. The focus of the conference will be on development and plasticity in chemosensory systems, topics of particular current significance not only in chemical senses but in broad aspects of neurobiology. Among the strengths of the proposal is the highly interactive format of Gordon Conferences (ample discussion time; small number of conferees; all conferees living and eating together for the week; all discussion "off the record"). The involvement of industrial as well as academic scientists is another noteworthy feature; this facilitates rapid transfer of technology from the research laboratory to the private sector, where economic impact is maximized. The conference should have considerable impact on chemosensory research and on neurobiology in general. The budget is reasonable, and NSF's contribution provides partial support for this valuable activity.
