The Gordon Research Conference (GRC) on Signal Transduction by Engineered Extracellular Matrices was established in 2000 to enhance the intersection of bioengineering and stem cell biology with an aim to foster translation of cell-based technologies into practice. For example: How does a single human iPS cell grow into an intestinal or brain organoid, and how can engineers make the process more efficient, less costly, and more adaptable to in vitro assays in drug development or for studies of disease state? The 2016 meeting retains the classic foundations of stem cell biology, bioengineering, and biomaterials design while emphasizing emerging new directions. A greater emphasis is placed on using systems biology approaches to interpret complex morphogenic phenomena across multiple length and time scales, so that translation of engineered systems into clinical or pharmaceutical/biotechnology practice becomes more robust. Systems biology approaches in the context of this conference involve engineering/computational analysis and interpretation of high content / high throughput multiscale measurements of intracellular and extracellular signaling molecules, including matrix, with corresponding phenotypic measurements. Emerging efforts involve not just single-cell models, but multiscale population models to inform the design of matrix and scaffolds to direct cell behaviors as they proliferate, migrate, and undergo morphogenesis processes. From the applications perspective, the conference includes a new emphasis on mucosal barriers as an exciting frontier for regenerative therapies and targeted interventions against chronic inflammation. Understanding and controlling the properties of mucus as a matrix, and even synthesizing synthetic mucus, is crucial to regulation of mucosal immunity and healing. There is also an emphasis on engineering organoids for "organs on chips" type applications. This conference should be of interest to a wide range of basic scientists, engineers, and practitioners in regenerative medicine and pharmaceutical development. Invited speakers span a spectrum including cell and developmental biology, chemistry, materials, applied math, bioengineering, and practice. Several short talks will be selected from submitted abstracts. Activities at the conference will be designed to encourage interactions between established investigators and young investigators, including students and postdocs.

"3D Models and Organs-on-Chips in Drug Development" discussion group: Several invited speakers, discussion leaders, and other participants will host an informal discussion group/workshop on the topic of 3D models and organs on chips in drug development on Wednesday afternoon. The group includes a mix of academic and industry participants involved in creating or using these technologies. All GRC participants are invited to take part. This activity is not an official part of the program or sponsored by the GRC – it is an ad hoc activity for anyone interested in this topic, with logistical details to be provided at check-in.