23 March, 2026
For the first time in 2026, respiratory professionals with an interest in alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) will have a dedicated space in which to collaborate, present, and discuss their work – the ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Conference.
This new ERS event will take place from 23–24 October in Barcelona, Spain, and online. It will provide a platform for both early-career professionals and established researchers to advance AATD treatment and care.
With the abstract submission deadline coming up next month (30 April), Conference Co-Chair and ERS President Elect Dr Marc Miravitlles has answered key questions about this new addition the ERS conferences and events portfolio.
‘A new meeting dedicated to advancing AATD research and clinical care’
“The ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency Conference 2026 is a new meeting dedicated to advancing research and clinical care in AATD,” said Marc.
“It will bring together clinicians, researchers and other experts with a shared interest in improving the understanding, diagnosis and management of this genetic condition.
“A key objective of the conference is to create a focused forum where the latest developments in science and clinical practice can be discussed. The meeting is closely linked with the work of the ERS Clinical Research Collaboration EARCO, which has played an important role in strengthening research collaboration and building a strong international community in this field.”
Providing a dedicated platform for the AATD professional community
Marc said: “Although awareness of AATD is increasing, the condition remains underdiagnosed in many parts of the world. At the same time, the field is moving quickly, with important advances in disease mechanisms, registries and therapeutic development.
“The conference was launched to provide a dedicated platform for the community working on AATD. The growing activity within initiatives such as the EARCO International Registry has created strong momentum, and this meeting offers an opportunity to bring that community together to share knowledge and accelerate progress.”
Researchers and clinicians ‘strongly encouraged’ to submit their work
“We strongly encourage researchers and clinicians to submit their work,” said Marc.
“Abstract presentations are a central part of the conference and an opportunity to showcase new data from across the AATD community. Successful submitters will present their research to an international audience of experts and will benefit from feedback, discussion and potential collaborations that can help move their work forward.”
Offering an up-to-date overview of the AATD field, plus valuable networking opportunities
“By attending, participants will gain an up-to-date overview of the AATD field, covering topics from pathophysiology and genetics to clinical management and emerging therapies,” said Marc.
“The programme will combine expert lectures with opportunities for discussion and interaction. Equally important, the meeting will provide a valuable networking environment where clinicians and researchers can exchange experience and explore new collaborations.”
Emphasising the strong, growing community working in AATD research
Marc continued: “One of the strengths of this conference is the way it spotlights the strong and growing community working in AATD research.
“Through initiatives such as EARCO, collaboration across centres and countries has increased significantly in recent years. This meeting aims to build on that momentum and further strengthen the international network dedicated to improving care for people with AATD.”