The University of Nebraska Medical Center will be launching an Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research study this fall and will be recruiting subjects for the trial.
The study, which is headed by Daniel Murman, M.D., professor in the UNMC Department of Neurological Sciences and director of the Memory Disorders & Behavioral Neurology Program, is called The Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative (API) Generation Study.
Dr. Murman explains, "Previous trials suggest that we must treat Alzheimer’s disease very early to be successful in slowing down the disease process. The Generation Study is looking for normal adults between the ages of 60 and 75 years, who are at increased risk of developing symptoms of AD because of a genetic subtype. The trial involves medication designed to decrease a protein called beta amyloid in the brain, which is thought to be an important cause of AD."
Dr. Murman also has been involved in Alzheimer’s research efforts through other nationally funded clinical trial efforts in the past, including the Expedition 3 trial for patients with mild AD, and the Nobel Study for patients with mild to moderate AD, and continues to be involved in the Anti-Amyloid Treatment in Asymptomatic AD (A4) study.
Dr. Murman noted that November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month and recognized the Alzheimer’s Association for its efforts in raising both awareness and opportunities for engagement in Alzheimer’s research.
"This is so critical to reducing the devastating consequences of this disease on Nebraska families – a disease with no current prevention or treatment options and no cure," he said.
In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter, Dr. Murman and his team have extended quality disease education and information to those facing a dementia diagnosis and their extended care networks.
Services provided by the Alzheimer’s Association, including care consultations with master’s level social workers, community education seminars and support groups, online portals for peer engagement, and safety service enrollments, enable families to be informed and empowered as they face a new chapter of life.
"Families facing a dementia diagnosis must have the opportunity to ask questions and seek innovative solutions regarding concerns they now have," said Sharon Jensen, executive director for the Alzheimer’s Association Nebraska Chapter. "Legal and financial guidance, alongside education that provides strategies for appropriate disease management, are available to help reduce disease burden.
"When a family reaches out for help, they showcase their commitment to fight this disease with dignity. The Alzheimer’s Association is ready and available to help."
For more information on the API Generation Study featured above, contact Renee Hogue at rhogue@unmc.edu or call Deb Meyer at (402) 559-6941. Additional information about the clinical trial can be found in the below resources:
– Alzheimer’s Association Trial Match at www.alz.org/trialmatch
– UNMC Clinical Trial Database at http://net.unmc.edu/ctsearch/index_unmc.php
– Generation Study at http://www.generationstudy.com and https://www.endalznow.org/GeneMatch
For information about National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month events in Nebraska or questions or concerns about Alzheimer’s disease, families are encouraged to visit alz.org/nebraska or call the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900.
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The Alzheimer's Association is the leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer's care, support and research. Our mission is to eliminate Alzheimer's disease through the advancement of research; to provide and enhance care and support for all affected; and to reduce the risk of dementia through the promotion of brain health. Our vision is a world without Alzheimer's®. Visit www.alz.org or call 800.272.3900.