PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT At present 6.7 million people in the US are living with Alzheimer’s disease and countless others are impacted by age-related cognitive decline. The cost of care for these is skyrocketing. We urgently need to discover new prevention and treatment strategies. To do this, we need to train the next generation of scientists in modern techniques and in how to integrate findings across multiple domains and research approaches. UCI has a long and distinguished history in the study of brain plasticity and learning and memory at multiple levels and in integrating across levels and approaches. In addition, UCI has long and growing expertise in neuroinflammation, stem cell biology and translational science, all of which are included in this training program. However, new areas of strength have been developing and collaborations formed with enhanced animal and human imaging, sleep researchers, cognitive sciences and clinical trials that is vital to real progress in generating the capabilities to identify, treat and prevent/delay pathological decline in cognitive function. We seek to provide pre- and postdoctoral trainees with training in concepts such as the integrative roles of genetics and environment in brain aging and as a function of lifespan. Although a significant fraction of research involves animal studies, we emphasize a broadened consideration of "bridging the gap" between animal and human studies. Overall, our training program has six primary features and strengths: 1) A team of innovative and scholarly preceptors who have a strong record of accomplishment for training young scholars; 2) An excellent collaborative environment; 3) A core set of courses on tailored to brain aging and dementia research; 4) A set of seminars and symposia and training on brain pathology through Clinical-pathological case presentations 5) Specific training in oral and written communication skills; and 6) Individual guidance and mentoring to help trainees reach their career goals. Overall, our Training program in Neurobiology of Aging and Alzheimer’s disease is designed to develop a uniquely trained cadre of investigators who over the years will develop successful careers bench to clinic translation of research to improve the lives of the elderly and ensure sustainably healthcare for the nation.

PROJECT NARRATIVE This renewal application seeks continued support for the training of Pre-doctoral and Post-doctoral students in the Neurobiology of Aging and Alzheimer’s Disease. We aspire to train the next generation of research scientists with an enhanced emphasis cutting edge technology, team science and large collaborative initiatives in multiple aspects of basic and translational neuroscience to delay and treat age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. A strong foundation in basic science, tight integration with clinical research, and opportunities for translational research goals will assure a steady source of new talent that will stimulate the field and generate novel approaches to these problems.