Leinonen Retina Laboratory participated in the first Retina4Future Scientific Meeting in Lisbon, Portugal, held under COST Action 24105* and built around the theme “Uniting science and solutions: accelerating translation in retinal research.” The meeting brought together an international community of researchers, clinicians, innovators, and patient-oriented stakeholders working across the retinal field. Henri Leinonen presented the lab’s work on inhibition of intracellular calcium and cAMP signaling as a therapeutic target in retinal degeneration during the Advanced Therapies session.
* COST Action Retina4Future CA24105 is supported by COST (European Cooperation in Science and Technology
Beyond the science, Retina4Future stood out for its exceptionally collegial and positive atmosphere. The program connected topics ranging from experimental models and AI-based imaging to gene and cell therapies, clinical translation, innovation pathways, and patient engagement. This breadth made the meeting an excellent forum not only for presenting research, but also for meeting new colleagues, deepening existing connections, and identifying future opportunities for collaboration across Europe.
For our laboratory, the meeting was especially valuable as a place to strengthen ties within the European retinal community. Building these networks is essential for future collaborative initiatives, and Lisbon offered exactly the kind of open, constructive environment where new ideas and partnerships can begin.
The meeting closed on a fitting note with strong attention to patient perspectives and translational impact, reinforcing the sense that the future of retinal research will be built through collaboration across disciplines and communities.
A Saturday morning walking tour after the conference provided a perfect finale. Lisbon’s beauty, history, and atmosphere created a wonderful backdrop for more informal discussion and shared moments with colleagues. It was an inspiring way to end a meeting that combined excellent science with warmth, collegiality, and genuine networking spirit.
– Henri Leinonen (AI was used for the original blog draft)
Retina4Future participants enjoying a walking tour in Lisbon after the meeting. Figure credit: Sandra Tenreiro.