MUSC MIND Conference

Earlier this summer, the Norris Lab team had the privilege of presenting at the MIND 2025 Conference, held May 29–31 at the Medical University of South Carolina. The conference brought together leaders in neuroscience, immunology, and connective tissue research for three days of innovation, collaboration, and conversation.

A Spotlight on Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

The opening day of the conference, May 29, was dedicated to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), with a focus on advances in genetics, clinical care, and patient-science. Our team and collaborators were proud to contribute to sessions on:

• Cracking the genetic code of EDS

• Gastrointestinal and dermatologic manifestations

• The Role of Mast Cells in EDS

• The role of patient engagement in research and clinical care

Norris Lab Contributions

Several members of our team took the stage to share their work:

• Dr. Chip Norris discussed new insights into the genetic and molecular basis of EDS.

• Dr. Cortney Gensemer presented on the involvement of the immune system and its implications for treatment, while highlighting our patient-scientists who have bridged lived experience with research priorities, reminding us of the importance of co-creating solutions with the EDS community.

Why It Matters

By placing EDS at the forefront of neuroscience research and discovery, MIND 2025 amplified awareness of connective tissue disorders and their intersections with brain and body health. It also highlighted the Medical University's growing role as a hub for EDS research and care.

Looking Ahead

We left the conference inspired by the collaborations that emerged and the conversations that will shape our next steps. From genetic discovery to clinical care, the future of EDS research is strengthened when scientists, clinicians, and patients collaborate.

-- The Norris Lab