The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have released a pivotal report outlining future research priorities to accelerate progress in preventing and treating Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (AD/ADRD). Recognizing the profound impact of these neurodegenerative conditions, the report emphasizes the need for innovative and integrative research approaches.

The committee identified 11 key research priorities, categorized into three broad areas:

1. Monitoring brain health across the life course: Creating advanced tools, such as innovative biomarker tests and digital assessment technologies, to assess brain health, predict risks, and diagnose AD/ADRD on a large scale.
2. Understanding disease biology and mechanisms: Building a comprehensive understanding of the biological pathways contributing to AD/ADRD development and resilience over time.
3. Advancing interventions for prevention and treatment: Catalyzing the development of interventions ranging from precision medicine to public health strategies to effectively prevent and treat AD/ADRD.

In addition to these priorities, the report offers nine complementary recommendations aimed at overcoming barriers of progress, such as promoting collaborative research efforts and enhancing data sharing.

The report is the result of a study requested by the National Institutes of Health for the US Congress “to assess the current state of research on AD/ADRD prevention and treatment, recommend research priorities, and identify strategies for overcoming barriers that impede scientific advancement”, conducted by a specifically appointed ad hoc committee of the National Academies.

For a detailed overview of these research priorities and recommendations, please refer to the embedded summary provided by the National Academies and the planned webinar on January 15, 2025. To access the full report, please visit the NASEM website.

Report Release Webinar | National Academies