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 Professional Interest Areas (PIAs)
ISTAART members organize their scientific activities through dedicated PIAs:
Core Biomarkers PIA
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
Neuroimaging PIA
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
Neuroscience PIA
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
Technology PIA
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
Young Professionals PIA
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
Additional PIAs
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
Session Types
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
ASK! Sessions: Ask the expert Q&A sessions (3:40-4:10 PM)