SfN 2026: Neurodegeneration Sessions

See Also

• [Mechanisms](/mechanisms)

External Links

• [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
• [ClinicalTrials.gov](https://clinicaltrials.gov/)

Dates: November 14-18, 2026 Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C., USA Event: SfN Neuroscience 2026 — Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting

Overview

The neurodegeneration track at SfN Neuroscience 2026 represents one of the meeting's most substantial research themes, reflecting the intense scientific interest in understanding and treating Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and related disorders. With thousands of presentations expected across multiple days, the neurodegeneration sessions will cover molecular mechanisms, therapeutic approaches, biomarkers, and clinical trial outcomes[@society2026]. This page catalogs the major neurodegeneration-related sessions, symposia, and minisymposia at SfN 2026, providing a comprehensive overview of the scientific program. The detailed program is released closer to the meeting date, and this content will be updated as session information becomes available.

Alzheimer's Disease Sessions

Theme C.02: Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias

The Alzheimer's disease track at SfN 2026 encompasses research spanning from fundamental molecular mechanisms to clinical applications. Sessions address the full spectrum of AD research, including the pathological processes driving disease progression, emerging therapeutic strategies, biomarker development for diagnosis and monitoring, and outcomes from pivotal clinical trials.

...

See Also

• [Mechanisms](/mechanisms)

External Links

• [PubMed](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
• [ClinicalTrials.gov](https://clinicaltrials.gov/)

Dates: November 14-18, 2026 Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C., USA Event: SfN Neuroscience 2026 — Society for Neuroscience Annual Meeting

Overview

The neurodegeneration track at SfN Neuroscience 2026 represents one of the meeting's most substantial research themes, reflecting the intense scientific interest in understanding and treating Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and related disorders. With thousands of presentations expected across multiple days, the neurodegeneration sessions will cover molecular mechanisms, therapeutic approaches, biomarkers, and clinical trial outcomes[@society2026]. This page catalogs the major neurodegeneration-related sessions, symposia, and minisymposia at SfN 2026, providing a comprehensive overview of the scientific program. The detailed program is released closer to the meeting date, and this content will be updated as session information becomes available.

Alzheimer's Disease Sessions

Theme C.02: Alzheimer's Disease & Other Dementias

The Alzheimer's disease track at SfN 2026 encompasses research spanning from fundamental molecular mechanisms to clinical applications. Sessions address the full spectrum of AD research, including the pathological processes driving disease progression, emerging therapeutic strategies, biomarker development for diagnosis and monitoring, and outcomes from pivotal clinical trials.

Molecular Mechanisms

Research into the molecular basis of Alzheimer's disease focuses on several interconnected pathways. Amyloid-beta aggregation and oligomerization represent foundational events in AD pathogenesis, with investigators exploring the precise mechanisms by which these processes lead to neuronal dysfunction. Tau protein research encompasses phosphorylation states, truncation events, and the spreading mechanisms that allow pathology to propagate through neural circuits. Scientists examine how amyloid and tau interact synergistically to produce toxicity that exceeds either pathology alone, while others investigate synaptic dysfunction in early disease stages and the role of neuroinflammation with microglial activation in disease progression.

Therapeutic Approaches

The therapeutic landscape for Alzheimer's disease features multiple complementary strategies. Anti-amyloid antibodies including lecanemab, donanemab, and other agents in development represent the most advanced disease-modifying approaches currently available. Parallel efforts focus on anti-tau therapies and vaccination strategies designed to halt or reverse tau pathology. Researchers continue developing small molecule inhibitors targeting protein aggregation, synaptic protectors and modulators to preserve neuronal connectivity, and gene therapy approaches that may offer more durable treatment effects.

Biomarkers and Diagnostics

Advancements in biomarkers are transforming Alzheimer's disease diagnosis and monitoring. Blood-based biomarkers have emerged as particularly promising, with phosphorylated tau species (p-tau217, p-tau181), amyloid beta ratios (Aβ42/40), neurofilament light chain (NfL), and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) showing strong clinical utility. Progress in CSF biomarker analysis continues to refine cerebrospinal fluid-based diagnosis. PET imaging tracers enable in vivo visualization of amyloid and tau pathology, while digital biomarkers and cognitive assessments provide continuous monitoring capabilities.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trial activity in Alzheimer's disease remains robust across multiple domains. Phase 3 outcomes from major trials provide efficacy data that shape clinical practice, while combination therapy approaches investigate synergistic effects of multiple interventions. Prevention trials targeting preclinical AD populations aim to intervene before symptom onset, and outcome measure validation ensures that trial endpoints accurately capture disease progression and treatment effects.

Key Alzheimer's Disease Topics

| Topic | Description |
|-------|-------------|
| Amyloid Cascade | Aβ production, clearance, and toxicity mechanisms |
| Tau Pathology | Spreading mechanisms, strains, and therapeutic targets |
| Neuroinflammation | Microglia, astrocytes, and complement in AD |
| Vascular Contributions | CVD-Biomarker interactions and vascular dementia |
| Sex Differences | Gender-specific risk and progression factors |

Parkinson's Disease Sessions

Theme C.03: Parkinson's Disease & Movement Disorders

The Parkinson's disease track at SfN 2026 covers research ranging from cellular and molecular mechanisms to clinical management. Sessions address the genetic and environmental factors contributing to PD risk, the pathological processes underlying dopaminergic neuron loss, therapeutic strategies targeting disease modification, and approaches to managing both motor and non-motor symptoms.

Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms

Understanding the molecular basis of Parkinson's disease guides therapeutic development across the field. Alpha-synuclein aggregation, misfolding, and the existence of distinct protein strains represent central topics in PD research. LRRK2 kinase activity and its role in pathogenicity have emerged as major research themes given the advancement of LRRK2 inhibitors into clinical testing. Investigators examine GBA1 dysfunction and lysosomal impairment, mitochondrial dysfunction in dopaminergic neurons, and the contribution of neuroinflammation to PD progression.

Genetics and Risk Factors

Genetic discoveries have transformed understanding of Parkinson's disease risk and pathogenesis. Known genetic causes include mutations in LRRK2, GBA1, SNCA, PARKIN, and PINK1, with each gene illuminating distinct aspects of disease biology. Genome-wide association studies have identified additional risk loci, while polygenic risk scores and investigation of gene-environment interactions help explain variable disease presentations among patients.

Therapeutic Approaches

Multiple therapeutic strategies aim to modify Parkinson's disease progression rather than merely treating symptoms. Alpha-synuclein targeting approaches include antibodies, small molecules, and vaccines designed to reduce pathological protein burden. LRRK2 inhibitors have advanced into clinical development following extensive preclinical characterization. Gene therapy for dopamine replacement offers potential for more sustained treatment effects, while cell replacement using iPSC-derived neurons represents a regenerative approach. Researchers continue pursuing neuroprotective strategies with potential for disease modification.

Clinical Features

Clinical management of Parkinson's disease requires attention to both motor and non-motor manifestations. Motor complications including dyskinesias and motor fluctuations emerge with prolonged levodopa treatment, while non-motor symptoms encompassing cognitive impairment, psychosis, and autonomic dysfunction significantly impact quality of life. Deep brain stimulation remains an effective intervention for appropriate candidates, and optimization of stimulation parameters continues to improve outcomes. Digital health monitoring enables continuous assessment of motor function between clinic visits.

Key Parkinson's Disease Topics

| Topic | Description |
|-------|-------------|
| Alpha-Synuclein | Aggregation mechanisms, strains, propagation |
| LRRK2 Pathway | Kinase biology, inhibitors, clinical trials |
| Mitochondrial PD | PINK1/Parkin, complex I dysfunction |
| Levodopa Pharmacology | Delivery systems, motor complications |
| Non-Motor Symptoms | Cognitive, psychiatric, autonomic dysfunction |

Other Neurodegenerative Conditions

Theme C.04: Movement Disorders (Non-PD)

Sessions addressing other movement disorders complement the Parkinson's disease programming. Huntington's disease research emphasizes genetic therapies and approaches targeting mutant huntingtin protein, reflecting advances in antisense oligonucleotide and CRISPR-based strategies. Spinocerebellar ataxias and related conditions receive attention through discussions of treatment approaches targeting the underlying genetic causes. Dystonia research examines both established mechanisms and novel botulinum toxin alternatives for patients who do not respond to current treatments.

Theme C.05: Tauopathies & Synucleinopathies

Beyond Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, sessions address related proteinopathies sharing common pathological features. Progressive supranuclear palsy and corticobasal degeneration represent atypical parkinsonian disorders with tau pathology, while multiple system atrophy features alpha-synuclein pathology distinct from Parkinson's disease. Frontotemporal dementia, the most common cause of early-onset dementia, receives dedicated coverage with attention to its diverse genetic and pathological underpinnings.

Theme C.06: Neuromuscular Diseases

Neuromuscular disease sessions at SfN 2026 address disorders affecting motor neurons, peripheral nerves, and muscle. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis research examines the progressive degeneration of upper and lower motor neurons, while spinal muscular atrophy programming covers advances in antisense therapy for this genetic disorder affecting infants and children. Kennedy's disease, also known as spinobulbar muscular atrophy, receives attention as an X-linked condition demonstrating the intersection of neurodegenerative and neuromuscular research. For dedicated coverage of ALS and motor neuron disease sessions, see the related SfN 2026 page.

Cross-Cutting Themes

Neuroinflammation (Theme D)

Sessions covering neuroinflammation address inflammatory processes common across neurodegenerative conditions. Microglial activation states demonstrate considerable plasticity, with distinct activation patterns associated with different disease contexts and potentially distinct functional consequences. The complement system participates in synaptic pruning during development and potentially in neurodegeneration, while astrocyte reactivity and dysfunction contribute to disease progression through multiple mechanisms. Interactions between peripheral immunity and the central nervous system influence neuroinflammatory responses, with emerging evidence suggesting that peripheral immune cells may directly modulate CNS pathology. For dedicated coverage of glial cell biology sessions, see the SfN 2026 glial biology in neurodegeneration page.

Imaging and Biomarkers

Cross-cutting biomarker research addresses common methodological needs across neurodegenerative conditions. PET tracers have been developed for amyloid, tau, and synuclein pathology, enabling in vivo visualization of protein aggregates characteristic of different diseases. Advances in MRI techniques provide improved detection of neurodegeneration and associated pathological changes. Fluid biomarker development and validation proceeds across multiple body fluids, with plasma and CSF biomarkers showing particular promise for clinical application. Neurofilament light chain has emerged as a general marker of neuronal injury applicable across multiple neurodegenerative conditions.

Emerging Therapeutic Modalities

Novel therapeutic approaches transcend individual disease categories. Gene therapy vectors continue to improve with next-generation capsids providing enhanced CNS targeting, while gene therapy targets expand beyond single-gene disorders. RNA therapeutics including antisense oligonucleotides and siRNA enable precise modulation of gene expression, with several agents now approved for neurological conditions and many more in development. CRISPR applications offer potential for precise genome editing with applications in both dominantly inherited disorders and common sporadic conditions. iPSC-derived cell therapies represent a regenerative approach with potential for cell replacement in conditions involving specific neuronal population loss.

Session Types at SfN

| Session Type | Description |
|--------------|-------------|
| Symposia | 90-minute organized presentations (3-4 speakers) |
| Minisymposia | 90-minute emerging research (6-8 speakers) |
| Poster Sessions | Visual presentations with interactive discussion |
| Special Lectures | Keynote addresses by field leaders |
| Workshops | Interactive professional development |

Related Conference Pages

SfN Meetings

The SfN Annual Meeting serves as the primary conference page, with SfN 2025 providing access to previous year proceedings for those interested in historical program content.

Other Neurodegeneration Conferences

Several other major conferences complement SfN programming throughout the year. The Alzheimer's Association International Conference (AAIC 2026) provides focused coverage of Alzheimer's disease research. The Alzheimer's and Parkinson's Diseases Conference (AD/PD 2026) addresses both conditions with particular emphasis on basic and translational science. The Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease conference (CTAD 2026) focuses specifically on therapeutic trials. The Movement Disorder Society Congress (MDS 2026) provides complementary coverage of Parkinson's disease and movement disorders. The American Academy of Neurology Annual Meeting (AAN 2026) covers both Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease within a broader neurology context.

Related Disease Pages

Alzheimer's Disease

Comprehensive disease pages cover Alzheimer's disease and its key components, including dedicated pages on Alzheimer's Disease Overview, amyloid-beta protein, tau protein, and the APOE gene.

Parkinson's Disease

Comprehensive disease pages cover Parkinson's disease and its key components, including dedicated pages on Parkinson's Disease Overview, alpha-synuclein protein, LRRK2 gene, and SNCA gene.

Other Neurodegenerative Diseases

Comprehensive disease pages cover additional neurodegenerative conditions, including pages on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Huntington's disease, frontotemporal dementia, and progressive supranuclear palsy.

Program Status (March 2026)

The detailed scientific program for Neuroscience 2026 is expected to be published in spring 2026. According to the SfN website, the full session schedule, speaker list, and abstracts will be available closer to the meeting date[@society2026a].

Key Deadlines

Abstract submission closes June 10, 2026, at 5 p.m. EDT, following an opening window beginning May 27, 2026. Registration opens July 15, 2026, for SfN members and July 21, 2026, for non-members. Networking event submissions are due October 22, 2026, and the meeting dates are November 14-18, 2026. This page will be updated with specific session titles, speakers, and abstracts as they become available from SfN.

References

Society for Neuroscience, Neuroscience 2026 (2026)

Society for Neuroscience, Neuroscience 2026 Sessions and Events (2026)