Concluding Remarks of WMS 2025 by Marvin Edeas
The 16th World Congress on Targeting Mitochondria marked a defining moment for the mitochondrial community. Over three days in Berlin, the discussions made one thing clear: mitochondria are no longer a niche topic of cell biology, they have become a central pillar of modern medicine. In his concluding remarks, Marvin Edeas, Founder and Chairman of the World Mitochondria Society, emphasized that mitochondrial research has entered a new phase.
Beyond their role in energy production, mitochondria are now understood as dynamic hubs of communication, adaptation, and resilience, influencing metabolism, immunity, aging, and disease across the entire organism.
What distinguished WMS 2025 congress was the strong convergence between fundamental science, technology, and clinical translation. Advances in mitochondrial dynamics, transplantation, bioenergetics, AI-driven imaging, and real-time metabolic monitoring demonstrated that the field is moving decisively from observation to intervention.
I also highlight the strategic importance of cross-disciplinary and cross-sector collaboration. The active participation of academic institutions, clinicians, technology developers, and industry partners reflected a shared understanding: progress in mitochondrial medicine depends on integration, not silos.
Equally important was the visibility of the next generation of scientists, whose short oral communications and posters showcased originality, creativity, and bold thinking. Their work signals a future where mitochondrial health is not only studied, but actively measured, protected, and restored.
WMS Vision
Looking ahead, the World Mitochondria Society reaffirms its mission to support a dynamic vision of medicine, one that recognizes mitochondria as actionable targets for prevention, diagnosis, and therapy, and as a unifying axis connecting biology, technology, and patient care.
Volkmar Weissig, President of WMS stated: Mitochondria are dynamic regulators of life and the foundation of the medicine of tomorrow.
I conclude: "In every cell and organs, mitochondria remind us that life is movement, energy, and constant dialogue, where discovery becomes therapy."
The dialogue continues towards Targeting Mitochondria 2026 as the community collectively shapes the future of mitochondrial medicine.
I hope to see you all in Berlin next October.
Marvin Edeas, Institut Cochin, INSERM U1016, Université de Paris, France
Founder of the World Mitochondria Society
