Mitochondrial Health and Healthspan: Brain Metabolism and Bioenergetics will bring together leading researchers and clinician-scientists to explore the central role of mitochondria in brain function, resilience, and aging. Once viewed primarily as cellular powerhouses, mitochondria are now understood to regulate signaling, inflammation, gene expression, and neuroplasticity. Their influence spans development, stress adaptation, metabolic regulation, and neurodegenerative disease, positioning mitochondrial biology at the forefront of efforts to extend healthspan and preserve cognitive vitality.
The symposium will highlight advances across three interconnected themes. Mitochondrial Genetics and Cellular Signaling in Brain Health will examine how mitochondrial DNA variation and bioenergetic function shape neural performance and disease risk. Mitochondrial Psychobiology: Stress, Development, and Neuroplasticity will explore how stress and early-life experiences influence mitochondrial dynamics and long-term mental health. Metabolic Psychiatry and Mitochondrial Therapeutics: From Diet to Drug Development will focus on emerging nutritional, metabolic, and pharmacologic strategies to target mitochondrial pathways implicated in psychiatric conditions.
Through keynote and plenary presentations, participants will gain insight into mechanisms linking mitochondrial dysfunction to cognitive decline, mood disorders, neurodevelopmental conditions, and neurodegeneration. Emphasis will be placed on translational opportunities, including biomarkers and precision interventions that move from discovery to therapeutics. Join us on November 11, 2026, for a focused and forward-looking discussion at the intersection of bioenergetics, brain science, and healthy aging.