Conference on ADRD Research among Diverse Latinos (CARDL)

Project Summary The proposed Conference on ADRD Research among Diverse Latinos (CARDL) is based on the cells-to-society framework, and uses the SOL-INCA conceptual model for addressing Latino cognitive aging and ADRD. The HCHS/SOL and SOL-INCA studies have large samples of diverse and representative Latinos, including those of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Central American, Cuban and Dominican origin. Over 14-years of longitudinal cognitive and functional assessments, plasma Amyloid Tau Neurodegeneration (ATN) biomarkers, neuroimaging, deep behavioral and cardiometabolic phenotyping, and multi-layered `omics, these study data provide fertile resources for new scientists of diverse cultural and disciplinary backgrounds to stimulate and produce new brain aging science on diverse Latino groups facing excess ADRD disease burden. This conference series will create a unique space for bringing leading and aspiring scientists together to work on high-priority scientific areas, including methodological, behavioral, social and neuroscientific ADRD-related topics. Conference participants will learn about the “state of the science” of Latino cognitive aging, and the “state of the data” by hearing about existing studies in the topic areas. They will also learn the “state of the methods” necessary to address complex study designs, meet with leaders in these respective fields, and have the opportunity to apply their understanding by developing new research questions for manuscripts and novel specific aims for grant proposals. The conference series will result in a measurable increase in the scientific output of early-stage (or new to the field) scientists, and will promote the development of biomedical research led by diverse investigators focused on between and within Latino population differences in cognitive aging outcomes.