Latest Research News
Blood Test Detecting Alzheimer's 15 Years Before Symptoms Moves Closer to Clinical Use
BiomarkersA phosphorylated tau-217 blood test demonstrated 90% accuracy in identifying Alzheimer's pathology in pre-symptomatic individuals across three independent cohorts. Researchers say the test could be available in clinical settings within two to three years.
Lecanemab Shown to Slow Cognitive Decline by 27% Over 18 Months in Phase 3 Trial
Drug TrialThe anti-amyloid antibody lecanemab (brand name Leqembi) met its primary endpoint in the CLARITY AD trial, slowing the rate of clinical decline in early Alzheimer's disease. The drug targets and removes amyloid plaques from the brain.
Poor Sleep in Midlife Linked to 30% Higher Dementia Risk, 25-Year Study Confirms
LifestyleA prospective cohort study following over 7,000 participants found that consistently sleeping six hours or less at age 50 and 60 was associated with a significantly higher risk of dementia, independent of other risk factors.
CRISPR Gene Editing Shows Early Promise in Reducing Tau Tangles in Mouse Models
Gene TherapyResearchers used CRISPR-Cas9 to selectively reduce expression of the MAPT gene responsible for tau protein production, significantly reducing neurofibrillary tangles in animal models. Human trials are still several years away.
12 Modifiable Risk Factors Account for 40% of Dementia Cases Globally, Lancet Commission Reports
PreventionThe updated Lancet Commission on dementia prevention added two new modifiable risk factors — high LDL cholesterol and vision loss — bringing the total to 12. The commission estimates that addressing all 12 could prevent or delay nearly half of all dementia cases worldwide.
Alzheimer's Drug Pipeline
A summary of the most significant dementia drugs currently in development or recently approved.
| Drug | Company | Mechanism | Stage | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lecanemab (Leqembi) | Eisai / Biogen | Anti-amyloid antibody | Approved (US/Japan) | TGA review in progress for Australia |
| Donanemab | Eli Lilly | Anti-amyloid antibody | Approved (US) | Showed 35% slowing in early AD |
| Remternetug | Eli Lilly | Anti-amyloid antibody | Phase 3 | Subcutaneous injection being trialled |
| Semaglutide (GLP-1) | Novo Nordisk | GLP-1 receptor agonist | Phase 3 | EVOKE trial — results expected 2025 |
| ALZ-801 | Alzheon | Anti-amyloid (oral) | Phase 3 | Oral drug — easier administration if approved |
| MEDI1814 | AstraZeneca | Anti-amyloid beta antibody | Phase 2 | Early stage, watching closely |
About the drug pipeline table
This table is updated periodically based on published trial results and regulatory announcements. It is for informational purposes only. Speak with a neurologist or your GP about treatment options.
The 12 Modifiable Risk Factors
The 2024 Lancet Commission identified 12 risk factors that — if eliminated — could prevent or delay up to 40% of dementia cases. These are factors within our control.