The International Congress of Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders® (MDS Congress) will convene this year in Honolulu, Hawaii, from October 5–9, 2025. Organized by the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS), this globally recognized forum brings together clinicians, researchers, industry professionals, and academic leaders committed to advancing the understanding and treatment of movement disorders.
As neurological disease research and treatment continue to evolve at a rapid pace, the MDS Congress remains a key venue for presenting emerging data, exchanging scientific insights, and exploring translational innovations. This year’s event promises a comprehensive program spanning the full spectrum of movement disorders and related neurodegenerative conditions.
Scientific Program Overview
The MDS Congress 2025 will feature a robust agenda of plenary sessions, symposia, skills workshops, and video case presentations, offering attendees access to the latest scientific and clinical advances. Topics will include:
- Disease pathophysiology and progression in Parkinson’s disease and related disorders
- Emerging biomarkers, including imaging, digital tools, and α‑synuclein–based assays
- Innovative therapeutic approaches, from neuromodulation and small molecules to gene and cell therapies
- Clinical trial design in rare and heterogenous movement disorders
- Real-world implementation of novel diagnostics and care models
The congress also places strong emphasis on interactive formats such as the MDS Video Challenge, live patient demonstrations, and collaborative discussion panels that foster engagement and cross-disciplinary dialogue.
Spotlight on Translational Neuroscience
Recent advancements in molecular biology, biomarker discovery, and neuropharmacology are reshaping how movement disorders are diagnosed and managed. The MDS Congress offers a platform for discussing these shifts — from target-based drug discovery to the application of artificial intelligence and machine learning in diagnosis and monitoring.
Key areas of focus expected to drive discussion in 2025 include:
- Alpha-synuclein seed amplification assays for early detection and disease differentiation
- Anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory strategies in neurodegeneration
- Data integration from wearable technologies, imaging, and patient-reported outcomes
- Clinical development challenges in prodromal Parkinsonism and atypical parkinsonian syndromes
These insights are critical for stakeholders working to translate scientific discovery into therapeutic benefit.
A Global, Multidisciplinary Exchange
One of the distinguishing features of the MDS Congress is its international scope and multidisciplinary focus. Attendees from more than 100 countries convene annually, representing a wide array of expertise — from basic science and clinical neurology to regulatory science and healthcare delivery.
This global forum provides a unique opportunity to:
- Benchmark emerging therapeutic strategies and research trajectories
- Gain real-world perspectives from clinicians and care providers
- Engage in collaborative discussions with thought leaders and innovators across academia, industry, and patient communities
The congress is also an important venue for early-career scientists and trainees, offering dedicated sessions on mentorship, professional development, and research dissemination.
Preparing for MDS 2025
For those planning to attend, the MDS mobile app (“MDS Events”) and the congress website provide up-to-date program information, speaker details, and logistical tools. The abstract submission and program details are published well in advance, enabling participants to plan their schedules effectively.
Conclusion
The MDS Congress 2025 serves as a critical convening point for advancing global understanding of Parkinson’s disease and movement disorders. Through the dissemination of novel research, rigorous clinical dialogue, and a shared commitment to improving patient outcomes, this congress continues to shape the future of neuroscience.
As therapeutic innovation accelerates and our understanding of neurodegenerative disease deepens, forums like MDS 2025 remain essential for fostering collaboration and driving progress across the translational research ecosystem.