Invited Speakers ESGLD 2026 Rotterdam
Patrik Verstreken, KU Leuven
Synaptic Autophagy in Parkinson’s disease
Peter Verstreken is a leading neuroscientist known for uncovering how synapses maintain their function, particularly the energy balance required for efficient neuronal communication. His work has shown that defects in synaptic vesicle recycling, mitochondrial function, and lysosomal pathways especially involving lipid processing, can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s disease. By integrating genetics, cell biology, and model organisms, he has revealed how lysosomes help regulate neuronal health and identified cellular mechanisms that may serve as therapeutic targets.
Andrea Ballabio
Title to be announced
Andrea Ballabio is a pioneering geneticist recognized for transforming our understanding of lysosomes as dynamic regulators of cellular metabolism rather than simple waste compartments. He discovered key molecular mechanisms controlling lysosomal biogenesis and function, including the role of the transcription factor TFEB as a master regulator of lysosomal and autophagy genes. His work has been central to elucidating the basis of lysosomal storage disorders and has opened new therapeutic strategies targeting lysosomal pathways in rare and neurodegenerative diseases.
Giancarlo Parenti
Title to be announced
Giancarlo Parenti is a physician-scientist known for advancing the understanding and treatment of lysosomal storage disorders, particularly through translational research bridging basic science and clinical application. His work has been instrumental in developing and refining therapies such as enzyme replacement and pharmacological chaperones to correct defective lysosomal enzymes. By focusing on disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies, he has contributed to improving diagnosis and expanding treatment options for patients with rare metabolic disorders.
Meeting topics:
The biology of lysosomes
Lysosomes and Diseases
Lysosomes and Therapy
Lysosome research: Late breaking news
Lysosomes in Common Diseases