26 October 2026
The conference theme, Connecting People, Creating Impact, was introduced by Gareth Cross, Director of Health and Care Research Wales. He emphasised that research must cross borders to create meaningful impact and highlighted the ANTC as an example of Welsh research making a global difference through collaboration and innovation.
This recognition was echoed by Professor Lucy Chappell in her keynote address, which called for a four nations approach to challenges in health and social care.
Professor Chappell cited the ANTC as an example of successful collaboration:
‘I really recognise how the Advanced Neurotherapies Centre is actually providing a service across borders. It’s looking upwards and outwards.’
As an exhibitor, the ANTC had the opportunity to connect with industry partners, clinicians, academics, researchers and public contributors, showcasing the benefits and challenges of developing and delivering advanced therapies for brain diseases.
The team also hosted a ‘pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey’ style activity, challenging attendees to deliver an advanced therapy medicinal product (ATMP) to a brain scan while blindfolded. Alongside providing a fun challenge, the activity sparked discussions about the complexities of ATMP delivery in surgical trials, where therapies are infused through catheters via tiny openings in the skull during lengthy MRI-guided procedures.
The ANTC was honoured to be shortlisted for the Health and Care Research Wales Laura Bunting Research Impact Award for its work on the AMT-130 gene therapy trial for Huntington’s disease.
Laura was a dear friend and colleague and is very much missed by all who knew her. This award ensures her commitment to research excellence continues and everyone at the ANTC are proud to continue her legacy.
The conference celebrated the reach and impact of Welsh research. In his closing remarks, Mabon ap Gwynfor MS, Cabinet Minister for Health and Care, Welsh Government, said:
‘Wales isn’t only adopting innovation; we are continuing to drive it.’
He highlighted the AMT-130 gene therapy treatment as ‘groundbreaking science which offers hope to families.’
The Advanced Neurotherapies Centre is proud to be part of this network of Welsh research and will continue seeking opportunities to learn, collaborate and innovate both within Wales and beyond.
Remember Laura Bunting and her inspiring work
Read more about what it’s like to deliver a surgical trial
Search for:
