Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness month is dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer’s disease, other forms of dementia, and overall brain health. According to Alzheimer’s Disease International, more than 55 million people currently live with dementia globally, and that number is expected to surge to 78 million by 2030 and 139 million by 2050. The significant unmet need and collective impact of Alzheimer’s—on patients, families, and healthcare systems—drives urgency in developing and commercializing new and better tools to change the course of the disease. This June, we not only recognize the importance of brain health, but also amplify the pioneering efforts in disease-modifying therapies, accessible diagnostics, and preventive strategies that are rapidly transforming Alzheimer’s care.
The FDA’s full approval of LEQEMBI® (lecanemab) in 2023 marked an inflection point in the treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease. Anti-amyloid therapies such as LEQEMBI® and KISUNLA™ slow disease progression in patients with early Alzheimer’s Disease by targeting the beta-amyloid plaques that are believed to play a significant role in cognitive decline. The introduction of these disease modifying therapies has been a powerful first step in providing physicians and patients with the tools to meaningfully change the course of the disease. However, the work is far from complete and continued investment in R&D on new mechanisms of action is critical. The Alzheimer’s pipeline is advancing with treatments targeting tau pathology—such as tau aggregation inhibitors and anti-tau monoclonal antibodies—which aim to prevent the formation of neurofibrillary tangles and slow neurodegeneration. Beyond amyloid and tau, researchers are also investigating a range of novel mechanisms, including modulation of ApoE, neurotransmitter systems, neuro-inflammation, and synaptic function, signaling a shift toward multi-targeted approaches that address the complex biology of the disease.
The availability of disease modifying therapies increases the importance of early diagnosis, and advances in diagnostic technologies are making early intervention more attainable. In May of this year, the FDA approved the Lumipulse® G pTau 217/β-Amyloid 1-42 blood test for adults aged 55+ with cognitive symptoms, marking a breakthrough as the first blood-based biomarker test approved to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease. This innovation enables doctors to detect amyloid plaques through a simple blood draw, reducing the need for invasive testing and opening the door for earlier, more targeted care.
Along with advances in diagnosis and treatment, emerging research on prevention offers new hope for the possibility of reducing the incidence of Alzheimer’s Disease. Ongoing research into GLP-1 receptor agonists and SGLT2 inhibitors, two classes of drugs originally developed for diabetes, is showing promise in slowing cognitive decline and potentially preventing Alzheimer’s altogether. These developments signal a future where early identification and intervention for at-risk patients may fundamentally mitigate the devastating impact of Alzheimer’s Disease on families.
Last week, our firm proudly wore purple to show support in the fight against Alzheimer’s. Beyond raising awareness, we remain dedicated to supporting innovation, advancing research, and partnering with those who are reshaping the future of brain health. Let’s continue to drive progress together in an effort to #EndAlz