International MJD Foundation Conference 2025: Bridging Science and Service

The International MJD Foundation Conference 2025 took place from May 06-09 in Darwin (Australia). The conference was organized by the Australian MJD Foundation, which partners with Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander communities to support families living with SCA3 and SCA7 in Australia by providing specialised knowledge and support https://mjd.org.au. The 2025 brought together international experts and stakeholders in the field with the specific goal to bridge cutting-edge research and culturally responsive healthcare for people affected by SCA3. The program covered numerous topics ranging from preclinical research on new targets over biomarker studies in SCA3 cohorts to the specific challenges of providing service to indigenous populations. T. Klockgether and M. Lima represented ESMI by delivering talks on preparation of interventional trials and patient engagement. The International MJD Foundation Conference 2025 offered a unique opportunity to discuss newest scientific achievements in SCA3 and to learn about the specific situation of indigenous people affected by SCA3.