Speaker Announcement
We are pleased to announce Diana Pohlman, Executive Director PANDAS Network Official and Clinical Research Associate, Columbia University, as a featured speaker at the Global Virtual Streptococcus Research Symposium, taking place April 27–28, 2026 (Eastern Time, USA).
Although most children are repeatedly infected with, or exposed, to Streptococcus pyogenes (S. pyogenes), only a small subset develops Sydenham’s chorea (SC), PANDAS or PANS. This strongly suggests that there are host genetic risk factors for SC/PANDAS/PANS. Despite reported links between infections and aberrant immune responses for SC/PANDAS/PANS, the genes and cellular mechanisms that predispose children to SC/PANDAS/PANS are completely unknown.
The Columbia University Repository recruits a retrospective cohort of confirmed diagnosed SC/PANDAS/PANS patients, collecting buccal swabs and together with an extensive health history for each subject. Through identifying potential genetic mechanisms of SC/PANDAS/PANS via whole exome sequencing (WES) and genome-wide associate studies (GWAS), this study has the ability to study disease mechanisms and guide development of new diagnostic tools for SC/PANDAS/PANS.
This presentation will highlight ongoing efforts to develop a comprehensive data repository aimed at advancing understanding of genetic susceptibility in PANDAS and Sydenham chorea. The work aligns with broader initiatives of the PANDAS Network, which focuses on improving diagnosis, supporting research, and building data resources to better inform clinicians, researchers, and families affected by PANDAS/PANS.
Through research programs, awareness initiatives, and collaboration with clinicians and scientists, the organization actively contributes to advancing knowledge of infection-triggered neuropsychiatric disorders and facilitating access to emerging scientific insights.
Diana Pohlman is a leading advocate and representative of the PANDAS Network, a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing research, awareness, and support for individuals affected by PANDAS/PANS. Her work focuses on bridging patient communities with scientific research initiatives, particularly in the areas of data collection, genetic susceptibility, and disease understanding.
Dates: April 27–28, 2026
Format: Virtual – Eastern Time (US)
This conference is organized by Impact Research Communications (IRC)
More info: https://strep.ircconferences.net/ | Advances in Streptococcus Research
Join the meeting to learn how collaborative data initiatives and patient-centered research are advancing understanding of PANDAS and related post-streptococcal disorders.
