The Mitochondrial Disease Conference 2026, hosted by Mitocon on 23–24 January in Pisa, brought together clinicians, researchers, patients, and industry partners for Italy’s leading event in mitochondrial medicine. The programme reflected rapid advances in diagnostics, gene therapies, artificial intelligence, and clinical trial development.

Two pre‑conference symposia—on AI in mitochondrial medicine and advances in mitochondrial optic neuropathies—set the stage for a programme that featured keynote lectures on mtDNA maintenance and gene therapy, alongside sessions covering basic science, clinical updates, therapeutic innovation, and translational research.

Collaboration was a central theme, with a dedicated session exploring partnerships between academia, industry, regulators, and patient organisations. The conference also highlighted the growing importance of clinical registries, showcasing international initiatives such as GENOMIT, the Spanish registry, and Italy’s national registry.

Young investigators presented through flash talks and abstract sessions, while late‑breaking research was featured on day two. The event concluded with the Mito Awards and closing remarks from leading experts.