From 30 March to 1 April 2026, Iben Lundgaard’s Glia-Immune Interactions Lab had the privilege of attending the Second Glymphatic and Brain Clearance Symposium, held at Keble College, Oxford, UK. This international symposium brought together over 250 scientists from a wide range of countries, all working at the forefront of neuroscience and neurology. The event focused on the glymphatic system and brain clearance mechanisms, areas of critical importance for understanding neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.
Attendance at this symposium provided an exceptional opportunity for the Lundgaard Lab to engage with leading researchers, exchange knowledge and explore emerging methodologies. Presentations and discussions covered cutting-edge imaging techniques, molecular mechanisms of waste clearance in the brain and translational applications that may improve the diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders.
Initiating a Global Scientific Exchange
The symposium held particular significance for the Lundgaard Lab because Iben Lundgaard was instrumental in shaping the first symposium in Lund, Sweden, in 2024. She initiated the concept, opening new opportunities for scientists to explore the glymphatic system in greater depth and detail. Her contributions have helped establish a tradition of international scientific exchange, bridging research communities across Sweden, the UK and beyond.
Beyond the formal sessions, the event fostered collaboration and networking among participants, facilitating discussions about ongoing research, potential partnerships and innovative approaches to studying brain clearance and neuroimmune interactions. By participating in this symposium, the Lundgaard Lab strengthened connections with leading scientists, gained insights into the latest experimental techniques, and contributed to advancing the understanding of the glymphatic system in both health and disease.
This experience underscores the importance of international collaboration and knowledge exchange in driving progress in neuroscience. The Lundgaard Lab looks forward to continuing these collaborations and sharing the insights gained with colleagues at Lund University and beyond, ensuring that research into the glymphatic system and neurodegenerative diseases remains at the forefront of scientific discovery.
The third symposium in this series is scheduled for Copenhagen, Denmark, in 2028. This event will continue the tradition of international collaboration and knowledge exchange established by the previous meetings. Welcome!