In the heart of Italy, the 21st annual gathering of muscle experts took place in Assisi from September 4-7, 2024. This event, organized by the Interuniversity Institute of Myology, brought together 123 professionals from around the world. These experts included researchers, pharmaceutical representatives, and patient advocates from Italy, Europe, Canada, and the USA. The atmosphere was electric, filled with a sense of collaboration and a drive to advance muscle research. This year's meeting was all about pushing boundaries, from understanding muscle physiology to tackling disease mechanisms and developing new therapies.

The event featured six main scientific sessions, packed with 30 oral presentations and 45 posters, all showcasing cutting-edge, unpublished research. The program was further enriched by four keynote lectures from top international speakers and talks from the Société Française de Myologie. These additions deepened the scientific discussions and brought fresh perspectives to the table. The meeting also included a free educational convention on "Physical exercise as prevention. " Leading experts shared insights on how exercise can improve public health. The event drew a large crowd, both in-person and online, and featured a talk by the Italian former boxer Roberto Cammarelle.

One of the standout features of this year's meeting was its focus on young researchers. Half of the attendees were under 35, highlighting the institute's commitment to nurturing the next generation of myologists. To support these young talents, awards were given for the Best Talk, Best Poster Blitz, and Best Poster. The winners joined the IIM Young Committee, giving them a chance to contribute to future scientific organizations. This integration of young researchers is crucial for the future of myology, as it brings in fresh ideas and innovative approaches.

The meeting was also part of the "Advanced Myology Update 2024" course, organized by the University of Perugia in collaboration with the institute. The 11 trainees enrolled in the course participated in exclusive roundtables and lessons led by invited speakers. This hands-on experience is invaluable for young researchers, providing them with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field. The event included abstracts of both oral and poster presentations, although some were withheld for patent-related reasons.

The 21st annual meeting of the Interuniversity Institute of Myology was a resounding success. It played a pivotal role in shaping the future of muscle research, fostering innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence on a global scale. The event left attendees eager for more, and the date for the 22nd meeting, set for September 11-14, 2025, in Assisi, is already marked on many calendars.

Muscle Science Meets Innovation: The Latest in Myology Research

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