In December 2024, we hosted the 35th International Symposium on ALS/MND in Montreal, Canada. The International Symposium brings together researchers, healthcare professionals and people with and affected by MND to discuss the latest updates in research. It also plays an important role in providing space and time for researchers across the globe to come together and discuss other motor neurone diseases such as Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS). We are proud to have supported the International PLS conference in 2024.
This is a guest blog by Erica Scirocco, MD, a Post Doctoral Research Fellow, and Juliana Araujo, a Communication Specialist, both working at the Sean M. Healey & AMG Center for ALS in Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston.
In December of 2024, the 3rd International Primary Lateral Sclerosis (PLS) Conference brought together leading researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates from around the globe to focus on advancing attendees’ understanding of PLS and of care for individuals living with PLS. This extremely rare neurodegenerative condition, a type of motor neuron disease, primarily affects the upper motor neurons and presents unique challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and management.
Hosted in Montreal, Canada, the conference served as a vital platform for experts in the field shared their knowledge and discussed the latest scientific advancements in PLS. Topics included diagnostic improvements, neuroimaging techniques, biomarker discoveries, development of biorepositories, and progress of clinical trials. The event was a testament to the growing global collaboration aimed at understanding this disease and improving the lives of those affected by it.
Among the leading experts was Professor Hiroshi Mitsumoto, MD, of Columbia University, who has been working closely with global leaders to advance these paramount collaborations in PLS clinical research. Professor Mitsumoto, alongside Sabrina Paganoni, MD, PhD, of Massachusetts General Hospital, helped organize the event, including assembling the panel (full list of panelists available here) and inviting patients and families to participate. The welcoming of PLS patients and their families provided an impactful dimension to the conference by reemphasizing the gravity of this work and by facilitating direct discussion.
A key highlight of the conference was the recognition of emerging talent in the field of PLS research. Four early-career researchers received the PLS Young Investigator Award: Dr. Anisha Garg, Dr. Fabiola De Marchi, Dr. Alessandra Maccabeo, and Dr. Solmaz Yazdan. In awarding these individuals, the conference fostered the growth of a group of experts in PLS research. Another standout moment was the tribute to Professor Hiroshi Mitsumoto, who received a standing ovation in recognition of his exceptional contributions to PLS research. Professor Mitsumoto has significantly shaped our understanding of the disease, and his ongoing efforts continue to inspire researchers, clinicians, and patient advocates around the world.
The collaborative efforts highlighted at the conference underscore the power of global partnerships in advancing our understanding and treatment of PLS. As the field moves forward, the insights and connections established in Montreal will undoubtedly serve as a foundation for future breakthroughs, offering hope to individuals and families impacted by PLS.
A full recording of the panel discussions can be viewed using the button below.
We would like to thank Gabriella Casagrande for her contributions to reviewing this guest blog about the PLS Conference held at the 35th International Symposium on ALS/MND.
