rare connect
In the rapidly evolving world of immunotherapy, few names stand out quite like Dr. Manel Juan. A leading figure in the development of CAR-T and cell-based immunotherapies, Dr. Juan has spent his career advancing innovative treatments for complex diseases—including those with immune system involvement and genetic underpinnings, like Erdheim-Chester Disease (ECD).
This May, Dr. Juan will join a distinguished lineup of experts at the ECDGA Medical Symposium in Barcelona, where the global medical community will convene to exchange insights and foster collaboration. His keynote promises to offer not just a deep dive into cellular therapies, but a forward-looking vision of how these approaches may shape the future of rare disease treatment.
A Pioneer in Precision Medicine
Dr. Manel Juan, Head of the Immunology Department at Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, is recognized internationally for his trailblazing work in cell immunotherapy. At the forefront of CAR-T (chimeric antigen receptor T-cell) development in Europe, Dr. Juan has led efforts to harness the body’s immune system to selectively target and destroy diseased cells—transforming outcomes for patients with conditions previously considered untreatable.
What sets Dr. Juan’s work apart is his commitment to innovation paired with patient-centered care. His research bridges laboratory discoveries with clinical application, particularly for diseases that, like ECD, are driven by immune dysregulation and mutations in pathways such as MAPK.
Why This Matters to the ECD Community
While Erdheim-Chester Disease remains an ultra-rare condition, it shares important biological traits with other neoplastic and immune-driven disorders. With more than 80% of ECD patients showing mutations that activate the MAPK pathway—including the well-known BRAF^V600E mutation—targeted and immune-based therapies are becoming an essential area of research and clinical interest.
Though cell therapies like CAR-T are not currently approved for ECD, exploring the broader potential of immunotherapy is vital. Understanding how these technologies are developed, tested, and adapted for different diseases helps the medical community think creatively about future treatment options. Dr. Juan’s keynote will shine a light on these possibilities, offering insight into how innovation in one field can ripple across many others—including rare histiocytic disorders like ECD.
A Platform for Progress: The ECDGA Medical Symposium
The ECDGA Medical Symposium, to be held May 26–28 in Barcelona, is the only global gathering where physicians, researchers, and specialists from various disciplines come together solely to focus on Erdheim-Chester Disease. This year’s event offers a unique opportunity to explore groundbreaking scientific developments, including advances in cell-based immunotherapy, genomics, and diagnostic strategies.
Dr. Juan’s participation exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that defines the Symposium—bringing together thought leaders from across specialties to exchange knowledge, deepen understanding, and spark new ideas. Whether you’re a seasoned ECD researcher or new to this complex disease, the Symposium provides a front-row seat to the future of ECD science and care.
Join Us in Barcelona
With Dr. Manel Juan’s keynote setting the stage, the 2025 ECDGA Medical Symposium promises to be an unforgettable gathering of minds committed to transforming the landscape for rare disease care. From cell therapy to clinical case studies, this meeting is a catalyst for discovery and connection.
We welcome medical professionals from around the world to join us in Barcelona this May. Together, we can continue building bridges between research, innovation, and hope—for patients, families, and the entire ECD community.
The Erdheim-Chester Disease Global Alliance (ECDGA) does not provide medical advice, diagnoses, or treatments. All content is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a healthcare provider for medical concerns.
