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ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Conference 2026

23-24 October, 2026 | Barcelona, Spain

Organizing committee: Dr. Miriam Barrecheguren Fernandez, Prof. Dr Didier Cataldo, Dr Christian Clarenbach, Prof. Dr Marc Miravitlles, Dr Alice Turner, Mrs Marion Wilkens

Overview

Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency (AATD) is an underdiagnosed genetic disorder that predisposes individuals to early-onset emphysema and liver disease. Despite significant advances in our understanding of its molecular and clinical aspects, many questions remain regarding disease mechanisms, genotype-phenotype relationships, and optimal patient management across the spectrum of clinical presentations.

Recent research has expanded understanding of circulating AAT polymers, the pathogenicity of rare variants, and AATD-associated liver disease - topics that are reshaping how clinicians and researchers approach this complex disorder. New initiatives from the ERS Clinical Research Collaboration EARCO (European alpha-1 research collaboration), advances in imaging and laboratory testing, and stronger patient engagement are accelerating progress across Europe.

The only specific treatment for AATD-associated lung disease is IV augmentation therapy and has not significantly changed for more than 30 years; however, new strategies such as DNA or RNA editing therapies or small interfering RNA therapy are providing promising results in early phase trials.

The rapidly changing landscape of AATD requires continuous updating and active exchange of knowledge among healthcare professionals and patient representatives for the better care of individuals with the deficiency.

The first ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Conference - October 2026

The first ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Conference 2026 will take place in Barcelona, Spain, on 23-24 October 2026.

This two-day meeting will gather clinicians, scientists, laboratory experts and patient representatives to review current knowledge, present new findings and discuss future directions in AATD research and care.

Through state-of-the-art lectures, interactive discussions and abstract presentations, the programme will explore:

Relevance of circulating polymers of AAT
Pathogenicity of rare AAT variants
AATD-associated liver disease for pulmonologists
EARCO - new research advances
Strategies for diagnosis and follow-up of patients with AATD
Clinical phenotypes and heterogeneity in Alpha-1
New modalities of treatment for AATD

Poster presentation and poster discussion

There will be an opportunity for clinicians and researchers to present work in the form of posters that will be discussed during the plenary sessions. Some posters will be chosen for oral presentation.

Objectives

ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Conference 2026 aims to:

Update healthcare professionals on the latest advances in AATD biology and clinical care.
Promote collaboration between clinicians, laboratory specialists and researchers.
Strengthen understanding of AATD-related liver disease in respiratory practice.
Emphasise the importance of patient experience and engagement in research.
Review and understand the basis of the new modalities of treatment for AATD.

Who should attend?

Pulmonologists; hepatologists; radiologists; laboratory scientists; geneticists; researchers; patient advocates; basic, data and clinical scientists; pharmacologists and physiologists; and pharmaceutical/biotech industry clinicians and scientists involved in AATD and related rare diseases.

Join us in Barcelona from 23-24 October 2026 to exchange knowledge, strengthen collaboration, and shape the future of AATD diagnosis and care at the ERS Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Conference 2026.