Research And Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are essential to advancing Alzheimer’s disease research at a time when Alzheimer’s is reaching epidemic proportions. Without clinical trials, there can be no better treatments, no prevention and no cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists work relentlessly to find enhanced ways to treat diseases, but improved treatments can never become a reality without testing in clinical trials with human volunteers. It is only through clinical studies that we will develop and test promising new strategies for treatment, prevention, diagnosis, and ultimately a cure for Alzheimer’s disease.
The National Institute on Aging
The National Institute on Aging (NIA) is the primary Federal Alzheimer’s research agency of the National Institute on Health serves as a hub for information on NIA-conducted and -supported research and clinical trials, health information on participating in a clinical trial, and information on finding and joining a clinical trial. Through the clinical trials finder, individuals can search for a trial in their area as well as an Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center in your state. There are also additional research opportunities specifically for adults and children with Down syndrome through DS-Connect.
The Alzheimer's Association
The Alzheimer’s Association is the largest nonprofit funder of Alzheimer’s research and clinical trials. The Association is committed to accelerating the global progress of new treatments, preventions, and, ultimately, a cure.
UC Irvine Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders
UC Irvine Institute for Memory Impairments and Neurological Disorders (UCI MIND) is the University’s center for aging and dementia research, offering overall information on dementia, and specific information on Down Syndrome. Click here and scroll to learn more about their Brain Aging & Dementia Study, Biomarker Study, and support groups. They also offer an educational blog.
The Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Care at UCLA
The Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Care at UCLA (UCLA Easton Center) is a comprehensive research center focused on Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and other dementias. The theme of the center is the therapeutic imperative, focusing on the need for earlier (pre-dementia) diagnosis and new therapeutic agents that slow the course of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Included in this theme is a basic science study of the basic brain processes involved in AD, animal models of AD, clinical research of biomarkers for these diseases, diagnostic research, and clinical trials of new medications. The UCLA Memory Clinic is a component of Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Care specializing in the evaluation and diagnosis of Mild Cognitive Impairment, early Alzheimer’s disease (AD), frontotemporal dementia (FTD), and related disorders.