Breakthrough findings in plasminogen activation, extracellular proteolysis, and subsequent extracellular matrix remodeling have revolutionized our understanding of a wide range of biological mechanisms and pathogenic processes, including tissue remodeling and regeneration, angiogenesis, inflammation, cancer, cardiovascular and neurological diseases. The focus of the 2016 GRC on Plasminogen Activation and Extracellular Proteolysis is on cutting-edge discoveries in novel biological functions of plasminogen activation and extracellular proteolysis from basic mechanisms to translational science. New topics will include sessions on "The Role of Extracellular Proteolysis in Senescence and Aging" and "Women's Health". The session on "Senescence and Aging" will include presentation of studies of microRNA regulation of PAI-1 and the role of tPA in senescence. The "Women’s Health" session will emphasize both diseases specific to women and also the importance of separately studying gender in animal models. The GRC brings together the leading researchers in this multidisciplinary area for a highly interactive and informative meeting in a casual atmosphere. This conference has a long history of collegial interactions, launching of new collaborations, and it is an ideal venue for energetic, creative, and productive discussions to advance our understanding of the role of extracellular proteolysis in biological functions, disease detection and therapeutics. Talks will be selected from the submitted abstracts for the Late-Breaking Topics session. In addition to oral presentations, there will be two Poster Sessions that will feature prizes for best presentations by Students and Postdoctoral Fellows. Students and Postdoctoral Fellows will serve as Co-Discussion Leaders of all sessions. Underrepresented minorities can seek support for participation through a Carl Storm Underrepresented Minority Fellowship. After the enthusiastic feedback from prior meetings, a Gordon Research Seminar (GRS), specifically for Students and Postdoctoral Fellows within this field, will be held in immediate conjunction with the GRC. Please join us in 2016!