Each year, the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation brings together clinical and basic science researchers sharing an interest in mitochondria from all over the world. Participants come from many fields, including biochemistry, genetics, neurosciences, cardiology, cancer, diabetes, nephrology, hematology, pediatrics and aging research.

During the symposium, patients and families meet others who, like themselves, are seeking knowledge. They may be parents or an individual with similar experiences or someone that lives close to them. Patient and family attendees are given many opportunities to meet some of the top mitochondrial specialists from around the world.

The symposium encourages the exchange of information and cultivates networking among physicians, researchers, patients and families. Meeting format typically consists of a four-day scientific program and a two-day patient/family program.