CTSA News

At the Indiana CTSI’s 2026 Annual Meeting, attendees explored how breakthroughs in genetics, molecular biology, and precision medicine are moving from the laboratory into people’s lives. The theme was “Genetic Medicine from Sequence to Solution.”  

Researchers, clinicians, trainees, community partners, and collaborators gathered in Hine Hall on the IU Indianapolis to learn how translational scientists are advancing genetic medicine from discovery to impact.  

Building on discovery, accelerating translation 

The meeting took place on Friday, September 18, 2026. From gene therapies and pharmacogenomics to regenerative science and immunotherapy, the meeting highlighted how researchers across Indiana and beyond are translating fundamental discoveries into new approaches for preventing, diagnosing, and treating disease.  

Throughout the day, speakers shared examples of how translational science is helping researchers move promising innovations closer to patients, while also addressing the scientific, clinical, and regulatory challenges involved in bringing new therapies to the people who need them most.  

Recognizing Kevin Campbell, PhD 

Keynote speaker Kevin Campbell, Ph.D., of the University of Iowa, received the 2026 August M. Watanabe Prize in Translational Research. Campbell is internationally recognized for his pioneering research in muscular dystrophy and skeletal muscle biology, work that has significantly advanced understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying these disorders and informed the development of potential therapeutic strategies.  

His keynote address, “Elucidating Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies for Muscular Dystrophy,” explored decades of research into genetic causes of muscular dystrophy and discussed emerging opportunities to translate scientific discoveries into meaningful treatments for patients and families affected by rare neuromuscular diseases.  

Sessions & themes

In the morning, attendees experienced a novel format for the Annual Meeting: a “Research Blitz,” in which ten speakers gave four-minute presentations on their research.  

Moderated by Brian Overholser, PharmD, FCCP, of Purdue University, the Research Blitz showcased a broad range of cutting-edge translational science underway across Indiana CTSI partner institutions. Presentations spanned next-generation gene therapy, pharmacogenomics implementation, leukemia therapeutics, neuroregeneration, myelin repair, Alzheimer’s disease resilience, engineered immunotherapies, cancer metastasis, nutrition and cancer risk, and environmental influences on neurodegenerative disease.  

Together, the presentations illustrated the remarkable breadth of translational research occurring across Indiana and demonstrated how investigators are tackling complex health challenges through innovative, multidisciplinary approaches.  

After lunch, the program turned toward the real-world impact of genetic medicine with a panel discussion moderated by Roland Herzog, PhD. During the discussion, titled “Making Discoveries, Changing Lives,” speakers examined how scientific advances are being translated into clinical care and explored the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing new genetic technologies in healthcare settings. A highlight was hearing from panelist Terry Kitterman, a community member and research participant who lives with hypokalemic periodic paralysis. 

The meeting concluded with a plenary address by Andrew Harmon, PhD, of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In “Accelerating Development of Genetic Therapies for Rare Diseases,” Harmon offered a regulatory perspective on the rapidly evolving field of genetic medicine. He emphasized the importance of collaboration among researchers, industry, regulators, and patient communities in bringing innovative therapies safely and efficiently to patients. 

Recognizing excellence in mentorship

The Annual Meeting also provided an opportunity to celebrate the people who strengthen Indiana’s clinical and translational research enterprise. During the afternoon program, the Indiana CTSI presented its Faculty Mentoring Award to Stacey Halum, MD, in recognition of her outstanding commitment to developing the next generation of clinical and translational scientists. 

Time for networking & collaboration

Throughout the day, participants engaged with research spanning genetics, neuroscience, cancer, metabolism, immunology, and precision medicine, reinforcing the power of collaboration to accelerate discovery and improve health outcomes.  

A closing reception gave attendees the opportunity to meet, talk, and spark new collaborations.

Looking ahead

The 2026 Annual Meeting showcased the extraordinary progress being made in genetic medicine while highlighting the collective effort required to translate scientific breakthroughs into treatments that improve lives. By connecting researchers, clinicians, trainees, industry partners, and community stakeholders, the Indiana CTSI continues to accelerate discoveries that move from lab and into people’s lives.