NeurologyLive® Year in Review 2025: Conference Coverage Recap

Throughout 2025, the NeurologyLive^® team, along with clinician and physician partners, attended and covered a multitude of the field’s most prominent conferences, capturing the themes and advancements shaping neurology today.

From ACTRIMS to AES, and everything in between—including MDA, AD/PD, PNS, AAN, SLEEP, CMSC, AHS, Cure SMA, ATMRD, AAIC, ECTRIMS, MDS, CNS, AANEM, NSGC, and CTAD—our coverage highlighted the key presentations, groundbreaking data, and discussions that defined each event. These stories feature insights from experts across clinical care, research, and advocacy, offering a comprehensive look into the cutting-edge innovations, ongoing challenges, and emerging trends that drove conversations throughout the year.

Across these platform events, experts in neurology and related specialties shared the latest advancements in Alzheimer disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), epilepsy, neuromuscular diseases, headache medicine, and more. From exploring the applications of artificial intelligence (AI) and gene therapy to addressing the unique challenges of patient-centered care, our team brought you highlights from the latest data and insights from experts that shape the future of neurological care.

Below are select 2025 conferences we covered, highlighting the latest trends and transformative discoveries shaping the field of neurology.

Americas Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis (ACTRIMS)

The 2025 ACTRIMS Forum, themed "Making Connections," was held February 27 - March 1 in West Palm Beach, Florida, at the Palm Beach County Convention Center and the Hilton West Palm Beach. This conference explored cutting-edge advancements in the understanding and treatment of MS, focusing on innovative therapeutic strategies, emerging research concepts, and the integration of new technologies in clinical practice.

Topics presented at the Forum addressed how to enhance patient outcomes, improve disease management, and optimize diagnostic and treatment protocols for MS. With a strong emphasis on neuroimmune interactions, disease progression, and novel clinical approaches, the event showcased interdisciplinary efforts to advance MS care.

Key crossover topics include:

• Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibition as a treatment strategy, targeting neuroinflammation in MS.
• Emerging concepts in MS, focusing on pathogenic mechanisms and new measures of disease activity.
• AI and machine learning in both MS research and clinical practice.
• The role of remyelination in MS repair and the challenges in clinical trials for these therapies.
• Comparative studies between MS and other neurological diseases, highlighting shared pathophysiological features.

The Urgency of Early Diagnosis and Treatment in Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder: Mirla Avila, MD

Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) Clinical and Scientific Conference

The 2025 MDA Clinical and Scientific Conference was held March 16-19, at the Hilton Anatole in Dallas, Texas. This conference dove into the latest advancements in the diagnosis, management, and treatment of neuromuscular diseases, emphasizing innovative therapeutic strategies, gene therapy, and the integration of multidisciplinary care models. The event highlighted emerging research, particularly around muscle regeneration, genetic technologies, and new treatment pathways for various neuromuscular conditions. There was also a focus on improving patient outcomes through a combination of clinical care, nutrition, physical therapy, and cutting-edge scientific discovery.

Key crossover topics include:

• Gene therapy advancements and applications in neuromuscular disease treatment.
• Muscle regeneration and its potential in treating diseased muscles.
• Multidisciplinary care models, promoting collaborative, patient-centered approaches.
• Leveraging genetics for new therapeutic targets, including amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and muscular dystrophies.
• Innovative approaches to patient care, incorporating physical therapy, nutrition, and community partnerships.

Unveiling ARCUS Gene Editing Platform and Its Potential in DMD: Cassandra Gorsuch, PhD

American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting

The 2025 AAN Annual Meeting, held April 5-9 in San Diego, California, highlighted key advancements and evolving practices in neurology, focusing on a wide range of topics, from innovative therapeutics and diagnostic criteria to addressing disparities in care and integrating technology into clinical practice. With an emphasis on improving patient outcomes across diverse populations, the sessions explored cutting-edge treatments, public health initiatives, and strategies to enhance neurologic care and education.

Key crossover topics include:

• Disease-modifying and behavioral therapeutics, with updates on dementia, migraine, and hypersomnia management.
• Revised diagnostic criteria, including the 2024 McDonald Criteria for MS and approaches to muscle disease and stroke care.
• Technological integration, leveraging AI and digital tools to advance clinical practice and neurology education.
• Public health and advocacy, focusing on disparities in care, neurologic outcomes across the lifespan, and supporting special populations.
• Comprehensive approaches to epilepsy, addressing surgical options and care across age spans and life stages.

Enhancing Brain Plasticity by Personalized and Closed-Loop Neuromodulation: Roy H. Hamilton, MD, MS, FAAN

Consortium of Multiple Sclerosis Centers (CMSC) Annual Meeting

The 2025 CMSC Annual Meeting, held May 28-31 in Phoenix, Arizona, explored the evolving landscape of MS care, focusing on advancements in diagnostics, treatment strategies, and interdisciplinary approaches to patient wellness.

From updates on diagnostic criteria to innovative rehabilitation and therapeutic models, the event emphasized a holistic approach to improving outcomes for individuals living with MS and related disorders. Sessions also addressed the professional development of MS care providers, highlighting strategies for combating burnout and fostering career growth.

Key crossover topics include:

• Revisions to the McDonald diagnostic criteria and their clinical implications.
• Interdisciplinary care models, emphasizing nutrition, rehabilitation, and comprehensive wellness approaches.
• Innovative therapeutic strategies, including remyelination and advanced disease modifying therapy management.
• Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody disease and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder, with a focus on diagnostic and treatment updates.
• Addressing challenges in MS care, such as fatigue, sexual dysfunction, and provider burnout.

Challenges and Considerations in the Care Management of Advanced Stages of Multiple Sclerosis: Sam Hooshmand, DO

SLEEP

The 2025 SLEEP annual convening of the Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS)—a joint venture of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and the Sleep Research Society (SRS)— was held June 7-11 at the Seattle Convention Center in Seattle, Washington. This conference dove into the evolving field of sleep medicine, focusing on cutting-edge treatments, diagnostic innovations, and the integration of emerging technologies.

Sessions addressed the complexities of sleep disorders, explored strategies to optimize patient care and improve outcomes across diverse populations. From advancing equity in sleep health to examining the interplay between sleep and other medical conditions, the event emphasized a multidisciplinary approach to tackling challenges in sleep medicine.

Key crossover topics include:

• Emerging technologies and treatments in sleep medicine, including hypoglossal and phrenic nerve stimulation.
• Sleep apnea management, from glucagon-like peptide-1 drugs to debates on the relevance of continuous positive airway pressure therapy.
• Interdisciplinary approaches, incorporating obesity treatment, pharmacological innovations, and mental health considerations.
• Sleep health equity and strategies to extend care to underserved populations.
• Clinical and practical challenges, such as narcolepsy testing, pediatric sleep controversies, and transitioning hospitalized sleep patients.

Potential Avenues for Combination Therapy in Obstructive Sleep Apnea: Danny Eckert, PhD

Advanced Therapeutics in Movement and Related Disorders (ATMRD) Congress

The 2025 ATMRD Congress hosted by the Parkinson & Movement Disorder (PMD) Alliance, in partnership with MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, was held June 27-30, at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Washington, DC. This conference focused on the latest advancements and comprehensive approaches to diagnosing, managing, and treating movement disorders and related conditions.

Emphasizing both motor and nonmotor aspects of care, the sessions provided insights into innovative therapies, diagnostic tools, and multidisciplinary strategies to enhance patient outcomes. Topics ranged from advanced therapeutics for dementia to emerging treatments for Parkinson disease and Huntington disease, offering a broad spectrum of learning opportunities for clinicians.

Key crossover topics include:

• Advanced therapeutic strategies, including disease-modifying treatments for dementia and novel approaches to Parkinson psychosis and dyskinesia.
• Innovations in surgical and on-demand therapies, such as deep brain stimulation, pumps, and new solutions for acute OFF episodes.
• Comprehensive management of Huntington disease, focusing on motor symptoms, genetics, and counseling.
• Utilizing advanced diagnostics and virtual reality training to refine clinical care and enhance provider skills.
• Addressing nonmotor challenges, including hallucinations, delusions, and patient communication barriers.

Revisiting Deep Brain Stimulation in a Pediatric-Onset Dystonia Case: Pamela Zeilman, NP

American Headache Society (AHS) Annual Scientific Meeting

The 2025 AHS Annual Scientific Meeting, held June 19-22 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, dove into the evolving landscape of headache medicine, focusing on innovative research, environmental influences, and advanced therapeutic strategies. Throughout the meeting, participants explored the intersection of technology and clinical practice while gaining insights into the mechanisms of migraine therapies. Overall, the sessions aimed to advance understanding and improve patient care through interdisciplinary approaches.

Key crossover topics include:

• Current trends and future directions in headache research and treatment.
• Impact of environmental and toxic conditions on headache disorders.
• Applications of AI in headache medicine, enhancing diagnostics and management.
• Central versus peripheral mechanisms of migraine therapies and their implications for treatment.

Insights on Safety and Clinical Guidance for Cannabinoid Use in Migraine: Nathaniel M. Schuster, MD

European Committee for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis Congress (ECTRIMS)

The 2025 ECTRIMS Congress, held September 24–26 in Barcelona, Spain, provided MS experts a comprehensive exploration of the latest developments and challenges in diagnosing, managing, and treating MS and related demyelinating diseases. Attendees learned about innovations in personalized care, neuroprotection, and the integration of emerging technologies. By addressing the spectrum of disease stages and diverse patient populations, the sessions aimed to advance understanding and improve global MS care.

Key crossover topics include:

• Advancements in diagnostic criteria and challenges in early and progressive MS diagnosis.
• Emerging biomarkers and imaging for detecting disease activity and treatment response.
• Role of environmental and microbiota factors in MS and related disorders.
• AI and technology integration for improving MS care and research.
• Global and diverse perspectives on MS diagnosis, equity, and treatment approaches.

Evolving Approaches to Seronegative NMOSD in New Diagnostic Criteria: Álvaro Cobo-Calvo, MD, PhD

Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease Conference (CTAD)

The 2025 CTAD conference, held December 1-4, in San Diego, California, focused on the forefront of AD research and treatment, offering a deep dive into innovative therapeutic strategies, biomarkers, clinical trial design, and the integration of patient-centered care. Presentations showcased cutting-edge advancements in drug development, precision diagnostics, and the use of emerging technologies to enhance both clinical practice and research. Emphasis was also placed on addressing disparities in clinical trial recruitment and improving outcomes across diverse populations.

Key crossover topics include:

• Advances in biomarker development, including plasma P-tau217 assays, amyloid positron emission tomography imaging, and fluid biomarkers for clinical and research applications.
• Emerging therapeutics, such as lecanemab, donanemab, and novel approaches using THC, cannabidiol, and gene therapy for managing AD and related disorders.
• Personalized medicine, highlighting AI-driven insights, APOE-targeted therapies, and combination treatments for tailored patient care.
• Clinical trial innovations, focusing on recruitment strategies, diversity inclusion, and optimizing trial design and outcomes.
• Evolving diagnostic criteria, with updates from the International Working Group (IWG) and implications for early detection and risk reduction.

The Promise of Personalized Neurostimulation in Slowing Alzheimer Progression: Giacomo Koch, MD, PhD; Ken Mariash; Emiliano Santarnecchi, PhD

American Epilepsy Society (AES) Annual Meeting

The 2025 AES Annual Meeting, held December 5-9, in Atlanta, Georgia, spotlighted the latest innovations and multidisciplinary approaches in epilepsy care, emphasizing advancements in neuromodulation, neuroimaging, and personalized therapeutic strategies. With sessions covering pediatric, adult, and global health perspectives, the program bridged clinical practices, translational research, and emerging technologies to optimize outcomes for individuals living with epilepsy.

Key crossover topics include:

• Advancements in neuromodulation and its role in epilepsy management.
• Personalized approaches using neuroimaging to improve surgical outcomes and minimize deficits.
• Translational research accelerating future therapies for epilepsy.
• Integrating AI and technology into epilepsy care, from neuropsychology to treatment planning.
• Multidisciplinary strategies addressing transitions, pregnancy outcomes, and resource-limited settings.

Exploring the Integration of AI into the field of Epilepsy: Balu Krishnan, MD

Click here to view our conference coverage.