Interdisciplinary collaboration: the obvious need and basic structures.

In the last decade there has been an exponential increase in knowledge in the field of medicine in general and particularly in Neurosciences. In order for the continuation of progress, it is important for professionals in all fields to collaborate with each other. Interdisciplinary collaboration is an absolute must to be able to obtain new knowledge, quickly and efficiently. Another important aspect is for professionals to collaborate with industry--especially the pharmaceutical industry. The global pharmaceutical companies account for a large amount of resources including personnel, knowledge, and especially funds. Although interdisciplinary collaboration is essential, many times potential partners overlook the obvious need for their own personal ongoing politics. Such competition needs to be overcome and new fields with multiple perspectives from different specialties will lead the way through the new millennium.