History and Mission

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Wisconsin alzheimer's disease research center investigators
Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center investigators, January 2018.
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NIA-designated badge for Alzheimer's Disease Research Center

The Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center’s mission is to improve the lives of people affected by Alzheimer’s disease by facilitating innovative science that targets the prevention and treatment of the disease. It combines academic, clinical, and research expertise from the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, UW Health, and the William S. Middleton Memorial Veterans Hospital.

The Wisconsin ADRC was established in 2009 with funding from a National Institutes of Health/National Institute on Aging grant for Alzheimer’s Research Centers (P30-AG062715). It is one of 33 National Institute on Aging (NIA)-designated Alzheimer’s Disease Research Centers across the United States, the only one in Wisconsin, and the only one in the nation focused on geriatric medicine. The Wisconsin ADRC is part of a national strategy to prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer’s disease by 2025.

The investigators at the Wisconsin ADRC are working to identify early signs of the disease and its causes in order to better understand why Alzheimer’s disease occurs and find ways to prevent, slow, or halt its progression. Our doctors and scientists conduct investigations through basic science, clinical, and care research programs. Their work is supported by resources collected and maintained by the Wisconsin ADRC, including a registry of research volunteers, biomarker databases, and biomarker services. The Wisconsin ADRC also sponsors Developmental Projects that encourage innovative Alzheimer’s disease research at the University of Wisconsin. The exceptional academic and scientific communities on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus provide further opportunities for innovative partnerships.