Alzheimer's Society comment: new research in the Lancet suggests a potential vaccine clears plaques in people with dementia but does not slow progression of the disease
Published 18 July 2008
Amyloid plaques form in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s disease.
It is encouraging that this drug successfully removes these plaques, but disappointing that these initial results suggest it did not slow the progression of the disease.
More detailed evaluations of the effects of this drug are now taking place and larger clinical trials are underway. We look forward to the outcomes to establish the effectiveness of this vaccine.
Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society
ENDS
Reference:
Clive Holmes, Delphine Boche, David Wilkinson, Ghasem Yadegarfar, Vivienne Hopkins, Anthony Bayer, Roy W Jones, Roger Bullock, Seth Love, James W Neal, Elina Zotova, James A R Nicoll (2008) Long-term effects of Aβ42 immunisation in Alzheimer's disease: follow-up of a randomised, placebo-controlled Phase 1 trial. Lancet vol 372
For further information please contact the Press Office - 0207 423 3595.
Notes to editors:
- 1 in 3 older people will end their lives with a form of dementia.
- 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051. 1 in 6 people over 80 have dementia.
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and those who care for them. Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
- As a charity, Alzheimer's Society depends on the generosity of the public to help it care, research and campaign for people with dementia. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk.
- Alzheimer's Society Dementia Helpline number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
- For further information please contact the Press Office on 020 7423 3595.
