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O-GlcNAc Neurodevelopmental Disorders Conference


Conference O-GlcNAc Neurodevelopmental Disorders 2026: Models, Mechanisms, and Management


August 13th – 15th, 2026 | Aarhus, Denmark

Welcome to the first-of-its-kind international conference dedicated to OGT-Congenital Disorder of Glycosylation (OGT-ID). Affecting an estimated 1 in 15,000 live births, this rare genetic condition presents with developmental delays, intellectual disability, epilepsy, and co-morbidities like autism and ADHD. Currently, our community faces significant unmet medical needs due to a lack of diagnostic biomarkers and targeted treatments.

We are bringing together the world’s leading scientists, clinicians, industry experts, and, most importantly, patients and their families. By integrating the patient perspective directly into the scientific dialogue, we aim to ensure that future research priorities remain closely aligned with the real needs of affected individuals.

The Program

The meeting will be held at the highly accessible Fuglsø Conference Center. The scientific and community program features:

  • Scientific Tracks: Focused sessions exploring the molecular mechanisms of O-GlcNAc signaling, human genetics, clinical phenotyping, and emerging therapeutic strategies.

  • Demystifying OGT-CDG for Families: A dedicated session featuring introductory talks in layman’s terms, followed by an open Q&A with clinicians and researchers.

  • A Roadmap to Cures: A collaborative panel discussion aimed at producing a published white paper on the future of OGT-ID biomarkers and treatments.

  • Elevating Early Career Scientists: Dedicated short-talk slots and travel fellowships to foster and highlight the next generation of researchers.

  • A selection of abstracts will be selected for oral presentation, with the others being presented as posters during the poster sessions.

Conference registration fees including 2 nights accomodation and all meals are 4000 DKK

Inclusivity & Support

This event is designed to be accessible. To facilitate participation by those most impacted, we have allocated a budget to help subsidize attendance costs for OGT-ID families. Any surplus generated from sponsorships will be used to further support family attendance.

Please save the dates in your calendar. We look forward to welcoming you to this historic gathering!

The Organizing Committee

  • Prof. Daan van Aalten (Aarhus University)

  • Prof. Katrin Õunap (University of Tartu)

  • Ass. Prof. Natasha Zachara (Johns Hopkins University)

  • The CureOGT Foundation


Speakers

We are bringing top researchers in the field to share cutting-edge outcomes and develop a joint plan moving forward.




Frequently Asked Questions


Which airport should I fly into?

Denmark is a very small country. There is a (tiny) "Aarhus Airport" (AAR) but BLL (near Legoland) and AAL are international airports only 1.5h away by very good bus connection. CPH has trains to Aarhus that take 2:45h, with the train station being in the airport - please consider these ground transportation links instead of flying from CPH to AAR (which will often be slower with airport stopover time). While there is a flight from London to AAR this is from London Stansted - a considerable distance from London Heathrow or London Gatwick.

Do I need a visa to enter Denmark?

Denmark is part of the Schengen Area. Citizens of EU/EEA countries, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and most other Western countries do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.

If your nationality requires a Schengen visa, please apply at least 6–8 weeks before the conference. We can provide an official invitation letter to support your application — contact [organizer email] with your full name (as on passport), passport number, dates of travel, and a copy of your passport bio page.

Where will I stay during the conference?

Accommodation is at Fuglsø Centret itself — the venue is a conference center with on-site rooms and meals included in the registration fee. You don’t need to book separate lodging. Room assignments will be confirmed approximately 4 weeks before the conference.

Is the venue accessible?

Fuglsø Centret has accessible rooms and facilities. If you have specific mobility, sensory, or other accessibility needs, please indicate them on the registration form or contact us directly so we can ensure your needs are met.

What currency does Denmark use?

Danish Krone (DKK), not Euros. Approximate rate: 1 EUR ≈ 7.45 DKK; 1 USD ≈ 6.85 DKK (rates fluctuate).

Denmark is overwhelmingly card-based — you can use credit and debit cards (including Visa, Mastercard, and Apple/Google Pay) almost everywhere. You will likely not need cash at any point.

What language is spoken at the conference?

The conference language is English. All sessions, materials, and signage will be in English. Danish staff at Fuglsø Centret speak English well, as do nearly all Danes you will encounter.

What is the dress code?

Conference dress is smart casual. There is no formal dress requirement for sessions. Some attendees may dress more formally for the welcome dinner or closing reception — this is optional.

Will meals be provided?

Yes — breakfast, lunch, dinner, and coffee/tea breaks are included with registration. We collected dietary requirements during registration; please contact us if your needs have changed.

Will there be opportunities to present my work?

Yes — poster sessions and short talks will be available. If you indicated interest during registration, you’ll receive details about submission deadlines and format. If you didn’t but would like to present, contact organizers.

I'm a parent / family member of someone with OGT-XLID. Is this conference appropriate for me?

Absolutely. The OGT Conference is designed to bring together researchers, clinicians, and the OGT-XLID community, including patient families. You will find sessions and conversations directly relevant to families, opportunities to connect with researchers studying the condition, and a community of others living with similar experiences.