The inaugural Cell Symposia in New York City was an extraordinary success, firmly establishing the Neuro-Immune Axis meeting as the premier global forum for peripheral neuroimmunology. Hosted at the historic New York Academy of Medicine, the meeting brought together 475 scientists, clinicians, trainees, and industry partners from around the world, showcasing the explosive growth and translational potential of this rapidly evolving field.

The scientific program charted the full landscape of peripheral neuroimmune interactions, with sessions spanning sensory neuroimmunology: inflammation and host defense; peripheral tissue communication; interoception and immune homeostasis; allergens and microbes at barrier surfaces; and tissue and tumor microenvironments.

The meeting opened with an inspiring keynote from Nobel Laureate David Julius, whose foundational work on sensory biology set the stage for the transformative discussions that followed. The event closed with an equally powerful keynote by Sue Kaech, illuminating how immune–tissue ecosystems shape disease, repair, and immunotherapy.

Two vibrant panel sessions bookended the program: one exploring emerging opportunities and therapeutic frontiers in neuroimmunology, and another bringing together leaders across academia, biotech, and industry to discuss collaboration, translation, and the future of the field. Both proved to be standout highlights that helped shape the collective vision for where the field is headed.

Throughout the symposium, the energy was unmistakable — packed lecture halls, lively poster sessions, and nonstop scientific exchange. Attendees repeatedly remarked that this was a milestone moment: the first Cell Symposia in New York City and a defining gathering for the neuroimmune community. One participant captured the sentiment beautifully: “As a junior PI, the level of exposure and the networking opportunities provided were truly invaluable. I had several wonderful conversations with leaders in the field and their trainees, and I believe we all benefited tremendously from the experience. I also gained new perspectives from the panel discussions; unlike at some conferences where these can feel a bit flat, these sessions were dynamic and engaging. In fact, I never thought I’d say this, but I almost wished they were a bit longer!” — Ruaidhrí Jackson (Harvard Medical School).

We are immensely grateful for the generous support of our sponsors, whose commitment made this landmark gathering possible: Sanofi/Regeneron, Eli Lilly, Attovia, Royalty Pharma, CODA, The American Heart Association, Galderma, Evommune, BioTechne, Moleculent, MedChem Express, and Arc Institute.

The Allen Discovery Center for Neuroimmune Interactions was proud to co-host this landmark event, which not only celebrated the achievements of the field but also catalyzed new collaborations, ideas, and directions that will propel neuroimmunology forward for years to come.