- Clinical Assessment and Treatment. Earliest
detailed descriptions of the behavioral symptoms of AD
and its longitudinal course, leading to development of
widely used scales to assess dementia severity and responses
to treatment. Spearheaded clinical trials leading to
approval of memantine for AD treatment. Landmark
studies establishing effectiveness of psychosocial support
for patients and families.
- Early Diagnosis. Development of highly
sensitive brain imaging techniques and memory tests
that recognize and validate a stage of mild cognitive
impairment preceding AD and predicting its development. Established
novel approaches to imaging of brain structure, metabolism,
and electrical activity, combined with specific biomarkers,
for reliable early detection of AD and prediction of
AD development in people at risk.
- Genetic and Molecular Causes. Identified
a gene mutation linking Alzheimer’s and vascular
forms of dementia and a second mutation causing a novel
familial form of dementia. Characterized mechanisms
by which a common genetic risk factor for AD promotes
earlier disease onset. Established the link between
the gene causing AD in individuals with Down syndrome
and pathological changes in brain appearing years before
AD develops. Pioneered methods to isolate
amyloid and discovered a novel amyloid generating pathway
in brain.
- Drug Discovery. Pioneered the first
and second generations of laboratory (animal) models
for AD currently used world-wide (in labs and companies)
to discover and test new therapies. Conducted
pivotal studies revealing the therapeutic potential
of cholesterol lowering drugs and amyloid removal strategies
now under evaluation in patients. Continue on the forefront
of developments toward a safe “amyloid vaccine” for
treating AD and prion-related dementias.
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