The International Society to Advance Alzheimer's Research and Treatment (ISTAART) is the professional society within the Alzheimer's Association, representing over 5,000 researchers, clinicians, and students dedicated to advancing Alzheimer's and dementia research. ISTAART sessions at AAIC 2026 provide a platform for professional development, special interest topics, and networking across the global Alzheimer's research community.
ISTAART operates through Professional Interest Areas (PIAs) that organize focused scientific sessions, workshops, and collaborative initiatives. These PIAs cover the breadth of Alzheimer's research from biomarkers to clinical care, diversity to technology.
ISTAART members organize their scientific activities through dedicated PIAs:
The Core Biomarkers PIA focuses on advancing biomarker science for Alzheimer's disease:
- Fluid Biomarkers: CSF and blood-based markers including Aβ42/40, p-tau, NfL, GFAP
- Imaging Biomarkers: PET and MRI techniques for amyloid, tau, and neurodegeneration
- Biomarker Standardization: Quality control, assay harmonization, and reference materials
- Clinical Implementation: Biomarker integration into diagnostic criteria and clinical practice
- Emerging Markers: Novel markers for neuroinflammation, synaptic dysfunction, and proteostasis
¶ Diversity and Disparities PIA
The Diversity and Disparities PIA addresses health equity in Alzheimer's research:
- Health Equity: Addressing disparities in disease prevalence, diagnosis, and care
- Underrepresented Populations: Increasing representation in clinical research
- Cultural Considerations: Adapting assessment tools and engagement strategies
- Global Perspectives: Research from diverse geographic and economic contexts
- Implementation Science: Translating research to underserved communities
The Neuroimaging PIA advances brain imaging techniques:
- Advanced MRI: Structural, functional, and diffusion MRI methodologies
- PET Imaging: Amyloid, tau, and receptor PET tracers
- Functional Connectivity: Resting-state and task-based fMRI
- Multi-modal Imaging: Combining imaging modalities for comprehensive assessment
- AI in Imaging: Machine learning for image analysis and prediction
The Neuroscience PIA explores fundamental brain biology:
- Synaptic Biology: Synapse structure, function, and dysfunction
- Circuit Dysfunction: Neural network alterations in neurodegeneration
- Neuroimmune Interactions: Glial function and neuroinflammation
- Cellular Models: iPSC and organoid models of disease
- Systems Neuroscience: Brain circuitry and behavior
The Technology PIA bridges digital health and Alzheimer's research:
- Digital Health Tools: Smartphone and tablet applications
- Wearable Devices: Smartwatches and activity monitors
- AI/ML Applications: Machine learning for diagnosis and prediction
- Remote Monitoring: Telehealth and home-based assessment
- Data Infrastructure: Standards for digital biomarker data
The Young Professionals PIA supports career development:
- Career Development: Training and mentorship programs
- Mentorship Opportunities: Connecting junior and senior researchers
- Grant Writing Workshops: Preparing successful funding applications
- Networking Events: Building professional connections
- Abstract Competitions: Showcasing early-career research
AAIC 2026 also featured sessions from other PIAs:
- Clinical Trials PIA: Trial design, endpoints, and regulatory considerations
- Lifestyle PIA: Diet, exercise, and cognitive reserve
- Care, Support, and Ethics PIA: Patient care and ethical considerations
- Bioinformatics PIA: Data analysis and integrative methods
ISTAART sessions at AAIC 2026 include:
-
Skills Workshops: Hands-on training sessions (12:30-1:45 PM)
- Data analysis techniques
- Grant writing fundamentals
- Clinical assessment methods
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ASK! Sessions: Ask the expert Q&A sessions (3:40-4:10 PM)
- Direct engagement with field leaders
- Career and research questions
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PIA Symposia: Comprehensive scientific sessions
- Platform presentations
- Poster sessions
- Panel discussions
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Networking Mixers: Community building events
- Career development connections
- Collaboration opportunities