Alzheimer's Disease

Clinical Trials

Study of Oral ELND005 (AZD-103) in Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease

We are currently screening participants for this Phase II study of an oral compound which researchers hope will prevent the formation of amyloid protein clusters in the brain and perhaps shrink the clusters that are already there. English and Spanish speaking individuals diagnosed with probable AD who are between the ages of 50 and 85 inclusive may be eligible to participate. For more information, please contact Lynda Mules at 212-305-2077 or lm2538@columbia.edu.

Study of Bapineuzumab (AAB-001, ELN15727) in Mild to Moderate Alzheimer's Disease

This is a Phase III study of bapineuzemab administered by IV infusion which researchers hope will help to remove amyloid protein in the brain. Individuals diagnosed with probable AD who are 50 to 88 years old may be eligible to participate. For more information, please contact Evelyn Dominguez at 212-305-2371.

 

Effect of Gamma-Secretase Inhibition on the Progression of Alzheimer’s Disease

This is a Phase III study of an oral compound which researchers hope will inhibit the synthesis of beta amyloid. Men and women age 55 and older with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease may be eligible to participate.  For more information, please contact Lynda Mules at 212-305-2077.

 

Antipsychotic Medication Treatment of Psychosis and Behavioral Dyscontrol in Alzheimer's Disease Study
This research study, funded by the National Institute of Aging, uses risperidone (an FDA-approved antipsychotic medication) to treat people with Alzheimer's disease who suffer from hallucinations, delusions, agitation, and/or aggression. Treatment continues over a period of 48 weeks. Each eligible participant must have a family member or caregiver who can assist with adherence to treatment and provide information during the research study. For further information, please contact Michelle Motta at 212-543-6132.

Antidepressant Treatment Studies for Combined Depression and Memory Complaints

We are currently conducting medication treatment studies for individuals (age 50+) experiencing both depression and mild memory and/or concentration difficulties.  The studies offer both neuropsychological testing for memory and psychiatric evaluation of mood prior to and during the period of treatment.  Treatment in our clinic is provided for eligible individuals at no cost for at least 6 months.  For further information, please contact Karine Cunqueiro at 212-543-5067.

 

Neuroimaging Studies

Brain Imaging Study of Smell Function in Healthy Individuals and Patients with Memory Complaints

This study uses brain-imaging procedures to understand how aging and Alzheimer's disease affect smell function.  Healthy individuals and patients with memory complaints or with Alzheimer's disease receive a Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) scan while smelling common odors (e.g., coffee). Similar to standard MRI, which looks at brain structures, fMRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to look at how the brain is functioning.  This study will help us to understand the changes that occur in brain activity with age and disease progression.  For further information, please contact Matt Tabert, Ph.D., at 212-543-5046.

 

PET Scan Study for People with Parkinson's disease, Dementia with Lewy Body disease, Alzheimer's disease, and Healthy Volunteers

We are seeking English-speaking men and women age 50 to 95 who have either Parkinson's disease, Dementia with Lewy Body disease, Alzheimer's disease, or are healthy without memory problems. Participants will receive a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan that uses a radioactive tracer to bind to a dopaminergic transporter. This tracer may serve as an agent for in vivo imaging of dopaminergic degeneration in patients with different neurodegenerative diseases. Standard clinical procedures will be done including memory testing, blood work, and an MRI scan. The study consists of two visits, and participants will receive compensation. For futher information, please contact Linda Sanders at 212-342-0522 or Oksana Tatarina at 212-305-1987.

Alzheimer’s Disease PET Scan Study

This study explores whether a novel imaging agent used during a Positron emission tomography (PET) scan can confirm an AD diagnosis while the patient is alive. This would be useful for diagnosing AD, evaluating the effects of different drugs, allowing doctors to diagnose AD earlier, and identifying subjects at risk for developing AD.  We are seeking individuals older than 50 years of age (females must no longer be of childbearing potential) who are in good general health with no memory problems OR who do have a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.  Participants must be fluent in English, must be willing and able to undergo the test procedures, and must have a study partner who is willing to answer a few questions.   For more information please contact Oksana Tatarina 212-305-1987 or Linda Sanders 212-342-0522

Other Studies

Genetic Linkage Study

We are seeking families of all nationalities and backgrounds for a study that seeks to identify genes that may increase the risk for developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). If your family has at least two living siblings diagnosed with AD who are 60 years old or older, please call Vincent Santana at (800) 243-5828 or Jennifer Williamson at (212) 305-4655. .

 

Additional Information

Brain Donation Program "Give the Gift of Knowledge"
Brain donation allows valuable information to be obtained regarding normal aging and diseases that affect memory. This information may be useful towards the goal of developing more effective treatment strategies. If you or a family member wish to learn more about this program, please call Arlene Lawton, RN at 212-305-9086.

Lucy G. Moses Center for Memory and Behavioral Disorders
Changes in memory and thinking abilities can occur from a variety of conditions, not just Alzheimer's disease. Taub Institute specialists offer a thorough multidisciplinary evaluation of memory and thinking difficulties at two locations: The Neurological Institute, 710 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032; and Columbia Presbyterian Eastside, 16 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022. For Appointments call: (212) 305-6939.