From October 21–23, 2026, Dr. François Bernier, Chair of the Canadian Rare Disease Network (CRDN), and Dr. Catherine Strandt of RareKids-CAN joined international partners at the third European Rare Diseases Research Alliance (ERDERA) General Assembly in Coimbra, Portugal.
The gathering brought together researchers, clinicians, patient representatives, policymakers, and other partners to review progress across the alliance and explore opportunities to advance rare disease research through international collaboration.
A particular focus was on advancing research for ultra-rare diseases, where very small patient populations create significant challenges for traditional clinical trials and treatment development. Discussions explored innovative approaches, including N-of-1 and N-of-few studies, individualized therapies, and new ways to generate evidence and support regulatory decision-making. The meeting also highlighted ERDERA’s efforts to make its growing research infrastructure, expertise, and resources more accessible and useful to the rare disease community.
Connecting international opportunities with Canadian prioirties
Canada participates in ERDERA through its National Mirror Group (NMG), co-led by CRDN and RareKids-CAN, with operational support from MICYRN. Catherine Strandt serves as the NMG Coordinator on behalf of both organizations, supporting their shared leadership and engagement with Canadian and international partners.
The NMG brings together key Canadian rare disease stakeholders, including umbrella patient organizations, research networks, government agencies, and research funders, to strengthen national coordination and connect Canadian priorities with international activities.
This connection works in both directions. The NMG helps Canadian stakeholders learn about and engage with ERDERA’s research opportunities, funding calls, training, expertise, and emerging approaches, while also creating channels to bring Canadian perspectives, priorities, and experience into international discussions.
One upcoming opportunity is ERDERA’s 2027 Joint Transnational Call, expected to open in December 2026, which will support multinational research focused on recently identified rare diseases. Canadian participation will depend on the final funding and eligibility arrangements.
Beyond individual funding calls, Canada’s NMG is working to strengthen connections across the national rare disease research ecosystem, identify shared priorities and gaps, and facilitate knowledge exchange with international partners.
For CRDN, participation in ERDERA is part of a broader commitment to national and global collaboration. Working alongside RareKids-CAN, MICYRN, and other Canadian partners, CRDN aims to help ensure that international advances inform efforts in Canada, while Canadian expertise and priorities contribute to global rare disease research.
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