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NYU Langone Health Showcases Innovative Research at AAN 2026

The 2026 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) has become a prominent platform for showcasing groundbreaking research, and this year, experts from NYU Langone Health's Department of Neurology have made quite the impact. Between April 18 and 22 in Chicago, the neurologists presented their latest clinical findings, aiming to advance the understanding and treatment of neurological disorders.

Noteworthy Presentations and Findings

Addressing Medical Misinformation

One of the most engaging discussions was led by Dr. Jonathan E. Howard, who focused on practical strategies to combat widespread medical misinformation. This issue has emerged as a critical barrier to effective patient care, influencing outcomes and perpetuating false beliefs about treatment options. “Care and patient outcomes are affected by medical myths and misinformation,” Dr. Howard remarked, highlighting the importance of providing accurate information to both patients and the larger community. His platforms talk aimed to not only shed light on the dangers of misleading information but also on actionable strategies that healthcare professionals can adopt.

Promising New Epilepsy Treatment

Another highlight of the conference was the presentation by Dr. Jacqueline A. French, who unveiled promising results from the phase 3 clinical trial of a novel epilepsy treatment known as azetukalner. This medication demonstrated remarkable efficacy in reducing focal onset seizures, showing a median reduction of 53.2% at a 25 mg dose, compared to only 10.4% with a placebo. Given its promising results and a favorable safety profile, the drugmaker, Xenon, plans to seek FDA approval within the year's third quarter. Dr. French emphasized, “It’s incredible to see another new therapy potentially become available soon to patients thanks to the rigorous testing of our clinical trial teams.”

Navigating Healthcare as a Patient with Disabilities

Dr. Mihir Kakara presented a qualitative study focused on understanding the unique challenges faced by patients with disabilities within outpatient healthcare environments. His research employed innovative observational methods and highlighted significant barriers encountered during various stages of healthcare visits, from parking to exiting the facility. This study's findings, drawn from interviews with 21 patients utilizing mobility assistance devices, aim to inform policy and operational changes that can improve accessibility and enhance overall patient experiences.

Why NYU Langone Stands Out

The impact of NYU Langone Health in the field of neurology has not gone unnoticed. In fact, U.S. News & World Report has ranked it as the number one hospital in the country for neurology and neurosurgery. This accolade is a testament to the rigorous research and quality of care consistently achieved by the institution. The Department of Neurology, which encompasses 18 divisions and centers, reflects the organization's commitment to advancing medical science and patient care.

Steven L. Galetta, MD, chair of the Department of Neurology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, emphasized the dedication of the faculty. “The depth of our faculty's teaching and research acumen is on full display at this year's AAN meeting. Our patients and our field benefit from the incredible work our scientific community does every day.”

As the AAN 2026 Annual Meeting wraps up, the significant contributions of NYU Langone's neurologists will surely influence practice standards and foster advancements in treating neurological conditions. The discussions and findings presented at this meeting underscore the institution's vital role in shaping the future of neurology and enhancing the landscape of patient care.