Alzheimer's research shifts toward early intervention and disease-modifying therapies

New disease-modifying therapies and advancements in precision medicine are transforming the clinical approach to Alzheimer's disease. In Spain, where over 900,000 people live with the condition, health experts emphasize that the integration of biomarkers, imaging techniques, digital tools, and artificial intelligence allows for earlier detection and more personalized treatment. However, stakeholders from Siemens Healthineers, Fundación CIEN, and CEAFA warn that healthcare systems must improve infrastructure and integrated circuits to prevent inequalities in access to these innovations.

Simultaneously, the international PrevenTRON Phase III clinical trial is investigating whether Alzheimer's can be halted before symptoms appear. The study aims to recruit approximately 1,600 participants aged 55 to 80 who show biological risk markers but no memory loss. Using blood tests to detect the p-tau217 protein, researchers will administer trontinemab, an experimental drug developed by Roche. Previous studies indicated that the drug successfully cleared amyloid plaques in nine out of ten participants over 28 weeks. The goal of PrevenTRON is to determine if early intervention can delay or prevent the onset of dementia.