Understanding the Paths from Neuron Induction to Circuit Integration
The adult mammalian brain has a limited capacity for regeneration, posing significant challenges for recovery following aging, injury, or neurodegenerative diseases. Recent advancements in neuronal stem cell therapies and in vivo generation of new neurons have opened exciting avenues for brain repair. However, progress remains hindered by an incomplete understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving these processes. A key challenge is determining how newly generated neurons—whether derived from stem cell therapy or direct reprogramming—successfully integrate into existing neural circuits and remodel the brain. In this free, one-day workshop, we will convene leading experts in neuronal stem cells, neurogenesis, and brain remodeling to discuss: (i) the latest developments and obstacles in neurodegenerative therapies involving neuronal stem cells and in vivo glia-to-neuron conversion, and (ii) the incorporation and remodeling of newly generated neurons. Special emphasis will be placed on identifying the crucial cellular and molecular factors involved in these processes. By blending molecular insights with philosophical perspectives, this workshop aims to foster new collaborations and strategies to overcome the brain’s limited regenerative capacity, paving the way for more effective regenerative medicine
Our Speakers
Ana Martin Villalba
Benedikt Berninger
Daniel Torneo
Orly Lazarov
Marius Wernig
Stefano Pluchino
Sergio Gascon
Magdalena Gotz
Federico Luzzati
Schedule
08:45 am - 09:00 am
Morning gathering
09:00 am - 10:30 pm
Morning Session
10:30 pm - 11:00 pm
Coffee Break
11:00 pm - 12:30 pm
Noon Session
Lunch break + Posters and Networking
12:30 pm - 03:00 pm
03:00 pm - 05:00 pm
Keynote, Discussion and Closing Remarks
Post Event Reception
Join us for a post event reception
Indulge in a complimentary Frizzante with voucher. Groove to the beats and dance the night away with our talented DJ.
Registration
Dear colleague,
Thank you very much for your interest in joining the Cajal Challenge workshop.
Unfortunately, registration is now closed, as the meeting has reached its full capacity. Due to the limited number of available places, registration was handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and we are therefore unable to accommodate additional participants at this stage.
We are very sorry that we cannot offer you a place this time. However, the Cajal Challenge workshop is expected to take place every two years, and we would be delighted to welcome you to a future edition.
Thank you again for your interest and understanding.
Roy Maimon: roy.maimon@nyu.edu
Daniel Tornero: daniel.tornero@ub.edu
Sergio Gascon: sgascon@cajal.csic.es
Carlos Chillon Marinas: ccmarinas@health.ucsd.edu
Sonia Vazquez Sanchez: soniavazquez-sanchez@health.ucsd.edu
+1 (858) 2959921
©2026 by Cajal’s challenge accepted: Understanding the Paths from Neuron Induction to Circuit Integration