Alzheimer's prevention trials
» Notice: Solanuzemab in the news - November 2016
There have been some reports about the unsuccessful results of the drug Solanuzemab from a study that tested the therapy in mild Alzheimer’s Dementia, which means these individuals are no longer independent and require help with day-to-day functioning.
While the drug appeared to be well-tolerated and safe, the treatment did not significantly slow cognitive decline.
In the A4 study being conducted at Sunnybrook and other sites, our researchers are targeting individuals who are still cognitively normal, and still may be many years before symptoms begin, when the burden of disease is at a much earlier stage. In the DIAN-TU study, genetic forms of the AD in their early stages are being targeted, and these forms may be different from the more common late onset forms in response to this medication.
Our researchers have reason to hope that Solanuzemab immunotherapy at this very early stage may still be helpful in slowing disease progression.
For more information on these studies, please find contact information below.
DIAN-TU study
Autosomal Dominant Alzheimer's Disease (ADAD) is a rare form of Alzheimer's that causes memory loss and dementia in people in their 30s to 50s.
The Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Trials Unit (DIAN-TU) has launched the first prevention trail for ADAD families.
The DIAN-TU trial focuses on drugs that could potentially change the course of the disease. The trial's goal is to determine the safety, tolerability and effectiveness of these drugs.
The DIAN-TU trial will determine if these medications can prevent, delay, or possibly even reverse Alzheimer's disease changes in the brain.
Although there are differences between ADAD and the more common age-associated, sporadic Alzheimer's disease, the results of this study will have implications for future studies and treatments in sporadic Alzheimer's disease.
Are you or someone you know affected by ADAD? We are currently looking for participants that have a parent or sibling who has been affected by an ADAD mutation.
If you or someone you know fits this descriptions, please contact:
Katie Sharp, Research Assistant
Phone: 416-480-6100 ext. 61620
Email: kathryn.sharp@sunnybrook.ca
A4 study
The A4 study is a landmark clinical trial to prevent the memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease for older individuals ages 65-85 who may be at risk but who have normal memory function.
The purpose of the A4 study (also known as the Anti-Amyloid Treatment in Asymptomatic Alzheimer’s study) is to test whether a new investigational treatment, called an anti-amyloid antibody, can slow memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
You may be eligible to participate in the A4 study if you:
- Are 65 to 85 years old.
- Have normal thinking and memory abilities.
- Have an A4 study partner who has at least weekly contact with you and can answer questions once a year.
- Are willing and able to receive intravenous infusion (IV) of the investigational treatment or placebo (monthly infusions).
A4 participants must be willing and able to participate in all required procedures for the duration of the A4 study.
For more information about what is involved in the study, risks, etc., please contact:
Fiona Muckle, Clinical Research Coordinator
Phone: 416-480-6100 ext. 62317
Email: fiona.muckle@sunnybrook.ca
