  The International Federation of Pigment Cell Societies (IFPCS) held its XXIII
triennial International Pigment Cell Conference (IPCC) in Denver, Colorado in
August 2017. The goal of the summit was to provide a venue promoting a vibrant
interchange among leading basic and clinical researchers working on
leading-edge aspects of melanocyte biology and disease. The philosophy of the
meeting, entitled Breakthroughs in Pigment Cell and Melanoma Research, was to
deliver a comprehensive program in an inclusive environment fostering
scientific exchange and building new academic bridges. This document provides
an outlook on the history, accomplishments, and sustainability of the pigment
cell and melanoma research community. Shared progress in the understanding of
cellular homeostasis of pigment cells but also clinical successes and hurdles
in the treatment of melanoma and dermatological disorders continue to drive
future research activities. A sustainable direction of the societies creates an
international forum identifying key areas of imminent needs in laboratory
research and clinical care and ensures the future of this vibrant, diverse and
unique research community at the same time. Important advances showcase wealth
and breadth of the field in melanocyte and melanoma research and include
emerging frontiers in melanoma immunotherapy, medical and surgical oncology,
dermatology, vitiligo, albinism, genomics and systems biology, precision
bench-to-bedside approaches, epidemiology, pigment biophysics and chemistry,
and evolution. This report recapitulates highlights of the federate meeting
agenda designed to advance clinical and basic research frontiers from melanoma
and dermatological sciences followed by a historical perspective of the
associated societies and conferences.
