This European webinar is intended for families, healthcare professionals, educators, and support staff involved in the care of individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Each session will feature a topic presented by a leading European expert in the field.
Training Information
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Webinar
on Zoom
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Language
English (subtitled in 50 languages)
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Two sessions
February 5, 2026 & May 28, 2026
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Session price
5 euros
Three pricing options are available, depending on your means and your willingness to support the event: solidarity rate (5 Eur), standard rate (10 Eur), and supporter rate (20 Eur).
Speakers
Dr. Erik Boot
On February 5, we will have the pleasure of welcoming Eric Boot who’s a physician specialized in intellectual disability medicine and works at the multidisciplinary 22q11.2 clinics for adults at ‘s Heeren Loo and Maastricht in the Netherlands. Most of his research focuses on how 22q11.2-related manifestations develop over time and aims at improving the quality of life for adults affected with 22q11.2 syndrome. Erik Boot is a member of the scientific advisory committee of the Dutch 22q11.2 family network (Stichting Steun 22Q11), and trustee of the 22q11.2 Society.
Dr. Corrado Sandini
On May 28, we will have the pleasure of welcoming Corrado Sandini, who’s a head physician at the Fondation Pôle Autisme. At the same time, he continues his research. He focuses on understanding the interactions between environmental factors and brain maturation in neurodevelopmental disorders. He is also interested in the role of sleep disorders in brain development.
Session 1 – THURSDAY, February 5, 2026
Parkinson(ism) in 22q11.2 deletion syndrome (Dr. Erik Boot)
In this online presentation, Dr. Erik Boot will provide an informative and accessible overview of parkinsonism and its connection to 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. The session will begin with background information on parkinsonism, a group of neurological conditions that cause movement-related symptoms similar to those of Parkinson’s disease and explain how these symptoms may present in individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.
Dr. Boot will explore the current scientific knowledge on the relationship between 22q11.2 deletion syndrome and an increased risk of developing parkinsonism. He will discuss potential signs, implications for long-term health, and how this knowledge may influence care strategies. Furthermore, the presentation will include practical recommendations.
The session will conclude with a Q&A segment, offering attendees the opportunity to ask questions and engage with Dr. Boot. This presentation is intended for parents and families of individuals with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome, as well as healthcare professionals, educators, and support workers involved in their care.
- An overview of existing research
- Practical care recommendations
- A live Q&A session with the audience
Parents and relatives, healthcare professionals, specialized educators, and anyone involved in supporting adults with 22q11.2 deletion syndrome.
Erik Boot is a physician specialized in intellectual disability medicine and works at the multidisciplinary 22q11.2 clinics for adults at ‘s Heeren Loo and Maastricht in the Netherlands. Most of his research focuses on how 22q11.2-related manifestations develop over time and aims at improving the quality of life for adults affected with 22q11.2 syndrome. Erik Boot is a member of the scientific advisory committee of the Dutch 22q11.2 family network (Stichting Steun 22Q11), and trustee of the 22q11.2 Society.
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM (CET)
Online via Zoom (link provided upon registration)
Language :English (webinar will be subtitled in 50 languages)
Session 2 – Thursday, MAY 28, 2026
Sleep in 22q11.2 Deletion Syndrome, emerging evidence and practical recommandations
22q11.2 deletion syndrome (22q11DS) is associated with an increased genetic risk for a range of psychological and behavioral difficulties. Sleep disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), are also highly prevalent in individuals with 22q11DS. However, until recently, we had a limited understanding of the role of sleep disturbances in contributing to psychological difficulties in 22q11DS—and of the mechanisms
underlying this association.
In this presentation, we will highlight emerging evidence from recent studies that address these important issues and underscore the importance of targeting sleep disturbances in 22q11DS. We will examine the underlying mechanisms that contribute to the onset and downstream consequences of sleep disruptions in this population. Finally, we will present practical recommendations for the optimal screening and management of sleep disturbances in individuals with 22q11DS, based on current research findings.