According to a story from Charcot-Marie-Tooth News, the Global CMT Research Convention is set to take place in Cambridge, Massachusetts on September 16-17, 2022. Organized by the CMT Research Foundation, this event promises to bring together scientists, pharmaceutical companies, and patients to discuss and recognize the latest advances in research and treatment. For those who cannot attend in-person, a virtual option for the event is also available.
About Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease (CMT)
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a hereditary disorder of the peripheral nervous system. It is most characterized by a progressive loss of touch sensation and muscle tissue in several different parts of the body. The cause of this disease is usually linked to a genetic mutation, but the mutation involved varies depending on the variant of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. There are multiple types of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, with all types aside from type 2 having a demyelination effect. Type 2 causes damage to the neuronal axon instead. Symptoms include foot drop, muscle wasting (typically in the arms, legs, and hands), painful muscle spasms, loss of sensation in the limbs, scoliosis, trouble speaking, chewing, and swallowing, and tremors. Treatment typically includes therapy and surgery in order to maintain function. There is no cure. The disease can occur early in life or as late as the 30s and 40s. To learn more about Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, click here.
About The Event
A number of prominent speakers will present, including Christopher Austin, MD, CEO, Vesalius Therapeutics, as keynote. Vincent Timmerman, PhD, will also speak during the event, and is noted for his discovery of the PMP22 gene mutation in 1990s, which causes type 1A CMT. The program on the 16th will be geared more towards science and research, while the 17th will be oriented more towards families and patients.
There will also be several different breakout sessions for different types of CMT as well as special considerations for child patients. To register for the event, click here. In-person registration is $40, and virtual attendance is free.
