2026 Lysosomes and Endocytosis Gordon Research Conference and Gordon Research Seminar

About This Grant

Project Summary NIH supported research aims to advance our understanding of biological systems, improve the control of disease, and enhance health. It is well-recognized that connecting investigators with complementary expertise’s in fundamental cell biology, biochemistry, genetics, state of the art imaging with those developing avenues for the treatment of disease are essential to get effective advances. This grant proposal seeks support for the 2026 Gordon Research Conference (GRC) and associated Gordon Research Seminar (GRS) on Lysosomes and Endocytosis, with a central theme of “Endosomes and Lysosomes in Action Across Cells, Tissues and Disease States”. As the field of Lysosomes and endocytosis evolves with increasing research in this aging related topics, the 2026 meeting will place an important emphasis on neurodegenerative disease, specifically Alzheimer Disease and related aging disorders. Exploring at the cellular, molecular and structural levels how defects in lysosomal and endocytic processes contribute to disease onset and progression are essential fundaments for therapeutical intervention. Endosomes and lysosomes are critical components of the endomembrane system, orchestrating essential cellular processes including cargo sorting, degradation, membrane trafficking, and signaling. Their coordinated activity ensures proper cellular homeostasis and adaptability across a wide range of cell types and tissue environments. Emerging evidence highlights their dynamic and context-dependent roles in development, immunity, metabolism, and cell fate determination. Notably, dysregulation of endo-lysosomal pathways is increasingly recognized as a central contributor to the pathogenesis of numerous diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancers, metabolic syndromes, and lysosomal storage diseases. The GRC will bring together internationally recognized experts and emerging scientists to present unpublished data, stimulate discussion, and develop new collaborations. The GRS, held prior to the main conference, will offer a focused environment for trainees and junior researchers to present their work and build professional networks to boost their careers.