Workshop 2025 | The Progeria Research Foundation

PRF’s 12th International Scientific Workshop: Breakthroughs, Community & Hope

In October 2025, 118 physicians, scientists, and advocates from 12 countries gathered in Boston for The Progeria Research Foundation’s 12th International Scientific Workshop — two and a half days of groundbreaking science, powerful human connection, and renewed commitment to finding a cure.

Science Meets Humanity The workshop opened with an historic first: a patient panel composed entirely of young adults living with Progeria. Merlin, Kaylee, Amber, and Michiel shared powerful insights into participating in clinical trials and navigating life with Progeria from childhood to adulthood. Their candid discussion captured the attention, hearts, and inspiration of everyone in the room. Attendees were also moved by a tribute to Sammy Basso, beloved patient and advocate, whose own words were shared through a film created by his best friend Riccardo. The evening closed with a musical performance by Dr. Francis Collins, former NIH Director and 20-year contributor to Progeria research.

View the the panel discussion and musical performance here

Cutting-Edge Research on Display Over 50 scientific presentations covered current treatments, cardiovascular disease, and the latest in gene therapy and gene editing. A highlight was the introduction of SamPro-2, a next-generation gene-editing therapy in development for a future clinical trial and a significant step toward a potential cure.

Built on Collaboration From early-career mentorship sessions to high-energy poster discussions, the workshop fostered the kind of partnerships that accelerate science. It closed in a circle, literally, with an open and reflective conversation about where the field goes next. Moments like this are what make PRF’s workshops so special. They create space for openness, collaboration, and a shared commitment to moving science forward, TOGETHER!

What Attendees Are Saying

Honored to have had the opportunity to attend.
I was impressed by the workshop organization and spirit! It felt being around family! Everyone was interested to communicate and share their experiences and ideas. The musical session by Dr. Colins broke the ice and added a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere to the conference.
The combination of patient participation and high-quality scientific talks provided a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the current state and future directions of progeria research.
Unbelievable how much research is ongoing. So much hope
Excellent workshop! Big thanks to the organizers! Good mix of clinical and preclinical topics. Great opportunities for networking, especially with the round tables.
Excellent workshop in every sense. Keep the format the same for future workshops.
Exceptional and comprehensive overview of the most innovative advances in progeria research.
The networking and collaborative time was extremely productive—we initiated two promising collaboration opportunities during these sessions. I was reminded of the importance of working together with many people

Survey Highlights

92% of attendees gave the workshop a 5-star overall rating
All scientific sessions received 4.9–5.0 ratings for quality, relevance, and speaker effectiveness

Thank You to Our Sponsors

PRF’s International Scientific Workshops are only possible through the generosity of committed partners who believe in the power of science to change lives.

We are deeply grateful for the support of The Associazione Italiana Progeria Sammy Basso.

Stay tuned for the 13th Annual PRF Scientific Workshop. Together, we will find the cure.

Presenting Sponsors

Sign Up

for Our

Updates!

Together, we

WILL

find the cure!