2022 Mammary Gland Biology GRC and GRS

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PROJECT SUMMARY The Gordon Research Conference on Mammary Gland Biology (GRC MGB) and the highly successful Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) that accompanies this meeting are unique amongst breast cancer conferences as they bring together a very diverse mix of scientists and clinician-scientists interested in the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern normal mammary gland development, normal physiology, tumor initiation and progression and metastasis. There is a strong focus on breast cancer prevention and treatment (based on elucidating the early and later events that contribute to breast cancer onset and progression) and emerging `cutting edge' science relevant to the field. The Mammary Gland Biology GRC/GRS is the only conference that focuses on understanding the normal biology and development of the human breast and the mammary gland in model systems, and their relationship to tumorigenesis to understand events that give rise to breast cancer and has become a `must attend' event for mammary gland biologists and cancer researchers (particularly in basic and translational research areas). We aim to 1) uphold the MGB GRC tradition of providing a platform for established and new experts to present new scientific findings and novel ideas; 2) stimulate discussions between established investigators with trainees during informal sessions to train the next generation by its current leaders and promote mentorship. To fulfil Aim 1, we have organized a program including international experts to address a wide range of fundamental scientific issues, who will present their latest unpublished findings during the talks and during poster sessions. The conference program will include short talks selected from abstracts, providing opportunities for outstanding work by junior investigators and trainees. Plentiful time will be assigned for questions after each oral presentation to further encourage discussion. Discussions after the talks, during poster sessions, and more informally during meals and afternoons will stimulate forward thinking in both the mammary gland, breast biology, and breast cancer fields. Presentations and discussions of these new findings and innovations will contribute to deepen our understanding of breast cancer initiation, progression and metastasis and will provide the basis to develop further tools to tackle this heterogenous disease in the clinic. In addition, by bringing together a diverse collection of scientists to address emerging scientific problems bridging the breast cancer, prevention and risk factors, lactation and mammary development areas, this meeting will generate a unique and creative atmosphere that spurs innovative thinking and collaborations and contributes to important advances each year. To fulfil Aim 2, opportunities to attend the “Power Hour” and informal "Lunch with the Expert" sessions and “Under the tree discussions” where trainees and senior investigators meet to meet, discuss science, as well as opportunities and challenges in the context of career development, will enhance the development of the next generation of mammary gland/breast cancer biologists.