Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are essential components of host defense against infections present in all domains of life. These peptides display marked activity against bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. But it has become increasingly clear however that AMPs and structurally related peptides also possess functions distinct from this broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity. These include realisation of roles in inflammation, immunity, wound healing and also fertility. The focus of the 2015 Gordon Conference of Antimicrobial Peptides is clear from its subtitle: basic and translational aspects. These aspects will be discussed by invited speakers, but also by scientists that submit abstracts to the meeting. The conference is aimed at scientists from a diverse array of disciplines, including microbiology, biochemistry, animal and plant biology, medicine, immunology, cell biology and drug development. The Conference will address the most innovative and up-to-date science on a range of topics in the field of AMPs research, and seek to integrate the different perspectives on the role of AMPs. AMPs play a major role at epithelial surface, where commensal and pathogenic micro-organisms are present. The intriguing insights provided by analysis of the microbiome at these epithelial surfaces will therefore have a major impact on our understanding of the role of AMPs at these surfaces. Other sessions will be focused on: regulation of expression of AMPs; microbial mechanisms to prevent the cytotoxic activity of AMPs; and their role in health and disease. Application of AMPs as therapeutics, and opportunities for use in agriculture and infection control will also be discussed. The informal and collegial atmosphere of the Conference is an ideal environment for scientific discussions and brainstorming, in formal and informal settings throughout the day. The presence of scientist from different disciplines offers opportunities for discussions that few meetings provide, in and outside the unique "Late-Breaking Topics Corner".