AHEAD Study

Anti-Amyloid Antibody PREVENTION Treatment Study for Individuals at Known Risk for Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Center (ADMDC) at Rhode Island Hospital are currently participating in a phase 3 clinical trial of an anti-amyloid antibody, BAN2401, for individuals who have normal memory, but have a known risk for developing Alzheimer’s disease, such as a family history of the disease. BAN2401 works by selectively targeting abnormal build-up of disease–associated amyloid beta in the brain.

The purpose of the AHEAD 3-45 study is to determine the safety and efficacy of BAN2401 in preventing Alzheimer’s disease. Only individuals with elevated levels of amyloid plaques in the brain as determined by PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan will qualify to participate. In this study, participants will be randomly assigned to receive either BAN2401 or a placebo by intravenous infusion, 1-2 times per month. The AHEAD 3-45 study will last for about five years and is funded through a partnership with the National Institutes on Aging, Eisai, and other organizations. 

Eligible Participants

This study is seeking individuals ages 55 to 80 years old who currently have no memory or thinking issues but have elevated levels of brain amyloid determined by a PET scan.  Individual ages 55 to 64 years must also have at minimum one of the following additional risk factors: a mother, father, sister or brother who has/had a diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease at or before age 80; one or two known APOE4 allele(s); or, prior confirmation of elevated amyloid positivity from either a PET scan or CSF ( cerebrospinal fluid) test.  All participants must have a study partner who is able to come to some of the study visits throughout the entire 240 week study.  

If you are interested in volunteering for the AHEAD [BAN2401] prevention study or have questions about our research, contact the Rhode Island Hospital ADMDC at 1-844-563-6679 (1-844-5MEMORY) or email [email protected].