The Biomarker Core unites ADRC efforts to standardize the collection and analysis of biofluid samples and brain imaging, along with the sharing of biomarker resources and derived data. In addition to serving as a hub to support these efforts for ADRC participants, we also support collaboration with academic and commercial collaborators. Our ADRC has previously focused on vascular factors related to AD and we aim to expand that focus to characterize factors that modify the effect of APOE ε4 on cognitive decline and ATN(vi) biomarkers, emphasizing vascular, lipid, inflammatory, genetic, and ethnic influences. The Biomarker Core is led by Robert Rissman PhD, and supported by resources at the USC Zilkha Neurogenetics Institute (ZNI) in Los Angeles, and the USC Alzheimer Therapeutics Research Institute (ATRI) in San Diego. The Biomarker Core has 3 specific aims:

Aim 1: Biofluid collection, processing, storage and sharing.
1) Coordinate collection, processing and storage of CSF, blood, plasma and DNA from ADRC Clinical Core participants using national ADRC Best Practices SOPs.
2) Perform analyses of CSF, plasma and DNA relevant to ADRD using validated methods to facilitate characterization of the ADRC cohort.
3) Provide ADRC samples and core resources (bioassay, DNA analyses, extractions, processing pipelines) to a broad array of investigators in support of new research projects and foster career development of scientists in biomarker research. Provide expertise for training in biomarker methods.

Aim 2: Facilitate biomarker research through an integrated informatics toolkit: Maintain a state-of-the-art biosample inventory linked with the ADRC DMSC to provide internal and external investigators with CSF and plasma samples, DNA, and derived data in support of ADRD research and novel biomarker discovery.

Aim 3: Accelerate local, national and international biomarker discovery efforts: Leverage ADRC biospecimens to develop new methods that inform on neuropathology, diagnosis, progression, prognosis and other research applicable to ADRD.
1) Leverage ADRC specimens for discovery projects at USC and nationally.
2) Work with Industry partners to develop and validate novel assays and platforms. We will also continue to support extensive collaborations with national and international investigators and train fellows, residents, graduate and undergraduate students in biomarker discovery.