Harnessing team science in dementia research: Insights from the Alzheimer's disease research group in South Carolina.

Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) are complex and rapidly growing public health challenges that require integrative, collaborative approaches. To meet this need, the Alzheimer's Disease Research Center (ADRC) of South Carolina, a state-funded partnership across multiple institutions, has embraced a team science model that brings together expertise from four key disciplines: neuroimaging-neurology, health sciences, molecular biology, and engineering. This paper highlights the work at the University of South Carolina (USC) and how each discipline contributes uniquely yet collaboratively within a recurring loop model framework. Extending from USC's Cancer Prevention and Control Program, the framework guides scientific growth through four iterative phases: discovery, development, delivery, and dissemination. From identifying cellular and molecular biomarkers to applying neuroimaging for early diagnosis, utilizing wearable technologies for real-time monitoring, and analyzing statewide data to understand caregiver burden and health inequities, each group contributes to a comprehensive and translational research cycle. By supporting structured mentorship, cross-disciplinary pilot projects, and shared infrastructure, the ADRC initiatives advance research that is both scientifically rigorous and equity-focused. This approach provides a valuable framework for advancing ADRD research and can inform other institutions aiming to tackle similarly complex health issues from discovery through dissemination.