A groundbreaking clinical trial has provided evidence of a method to slow down disease progression in Alzheimer’s patients and potentially delay its onset in those at risk. Researchers have found that an experimental drug, gantenerumab, can put the brakes on cognitive decline when taken early enough.
The trial involved 73 volunteers with Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer’s, a condition caused by genes that increase amyloid protein production. Despite accounting for only 1% of all Alzheimer’s cases, these individuals are at high risk of developing the disease by their 50s.
The results showed that gantenerumab had dramatic improvements in pathology, even in those who were initially part of a control group receiving a placebo. When higher-risk participants were given the treatment for an extended period, their risk of developing symptoms was cut in half. This effect may be even more pronounced as age increases.
While using antibodies like gantenerumab carries risks, including tiny bleeds and brain swellings, researchers are optimistic about its potential. The discovery could lead to preventions for people at risk of Alzheimer’s disease, potentially delaying the onset of symptoms and giving them more years of healthy life.
The study’s findings have been published in The Lancet Neurology, offering a promising glimpse into the future of Alzheimer’s treatment.
Source: https://www.sciencealert.com/anti-amyloid-drug-may-delay-alzheimers-symptoms-in-those-at-risk-clinical-trial-finds