8:00 am Check-In, Coffee & Light Breakfast
Workshop A
9:00 am Rethinking the Receptor Landscape for CNS Drug Delivery: Exploring Alternative Targets Beyond Transferrin for Receptor-Mediated Transport
Synopsis
Instead of relying solely on well-known receptor pathways, a new wave of research is uncovering alternative BBB targets with the potential to transform CNS drug delivery. By mapping receptor expression, engineering ligands for precision engagement, and harnessing receptor recycling, scientists are expanding the range of shuttle systems beyond transferrin. This workshop will examine the translational potential and validation challenges of these targets, and how they can synergize with biologics, gene therapies, and nanoparticle systems – giving you a practical framework to evaluate novel RMT strategies, improve biodistribution, and design safer, more effective CNS therapeutics.
This workshop will gather experts to discuss:
- Reassess the focus on transferrin. While transferrin-based strategies have known pros and cons, continued emphasis on justifying its use may hinder exploration of alternative targets
- Learn what makes emerging receptors potentially more selective for the BBB – and why specificity without peripheral expression is the holy grail for CNS delivery
- Discuss how having an array of shuttle-receptor pairs opens the door to modular, indication-specific strategies and reduces toxicity risk by optimizing biodistribution
11:00 am Morning Break & Refreshments
Workshop B
11:30 am Intranasal Delivery for CNS: Navigating the Nose-to-Brain Pathway from Concept to Clinic to Unlock Non-Invasive Therapeutic Access
Synopsis
Explore the full potential of intranasal delivery as a non-invasive, rapid-access route for targeting the CNS—bypassing the blood-brain barrier and enabling direct nose-tobrain transport. This workshop will delve into the scientific, technical, and regulatory dimensions of intranasal approaches, including the latest insights on olfactory and trigeminal pathways, formulation optimization, and device compatibility.
Gain a comprehensive understanding of how to align formulation science with delivery device engineering and navigate the regulatory landscape to accelerate clinical translation.
By attending, you will acquire the tools and insights needed to design robust, scalable intranasal strategies that maximize CNS exposure, minimize systemic side effects, and bring novel therapies closer to patients.
This workshop will gather experts to discuss:
- Examine the scientific principles and mechanisms underlying intranasal delivery for CNS targeting
- Address anatomical differences and species scaling challenges impacting translational success
- Discuss strategies for optimizing device–drug combination and regulatory considerations for clinical advancement
*There will be a one-hour lunch break during this workshop at 12.30
2:30 pm Afternoon Break & Refreshments
Workshop C
3:00 pm Choosing the Optimal CNS Delivery Route: Comparative Insights Across IV, Intrathecal, Intraparenchymal, & Beyond for Targeted Therapeutics
Synopsis
Explore how various central nervous system diseases demand carefully tailored delivery strategies to maximize therapeutic effectiveness and ensure patient safety.
This workshop will provide a detailed comparison of key administration routes, including intravenous, intrathecal, and intraparenchymal.
The unique advantages and challenges of each approach will be discussed, helping you understand which delivery methods best suit different therapeutic modalities and clinical needs.
This workshop will gather experts to discuss:
- Matching therapeutic modalities to the best delivery route
- Comparing systemic (IV) versus direct CNS (IT, IP) delivery methods
- Considering target localization, distribution, and safety for route selection
- Case studies showcasing route choices for various CNS disorders
Join experts to uncover practical strategies for effective CNS drug delivery