PROGRAM OVERVIEW

On Friday, February 18, 2022, the Nantz National Alzheimer Center symposium will examine the striking advances made in the identification of plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. Plasma biomarkers will allow for the identification of people at risk and, likely, for measuring the speed of disease progression. Thus, they will be critical in clinical trials and for the application of new therapies. 

Among new therapies, aducanumab received accelerated approval from the FDA in June 2021. Approval announcement was followed by controversy, which persists. Aducanumab is an antibody that binds to beta-amyloid to clear it from the brain. Several other such antibodies have been developed and tested. Evidence will be reviewed on the usefulness of these antibodies, by discussing large clinical trials already performed, including in people with dominant mutations, smaller studies, and studies in progress, as well as the rationale for the trials and the mechanisms by which these antibodies work. Neuroinflammation is increasingly being recognized as critical for the onset and progression of neurodegeneration. Clinical evidence and clinical trials to modulate neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders will be discussed. 

TARGET AUDIENCE AND EDUCATIONAL OBJECTIVES

Physicians, scientists with an interest in neurobiology, neuropsychologists, speech pathologists, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, social workers, residents and fellows will benefit from this course.

Having attended this symposium, physicians will be able to:

• List beta-amyloid, tau, and neurofilament light chain as proteins that can be measured in blood. 
• Describe how beta-amyloid, tau, and neurofilament light chain are related to Alzheimer’s disease.
• Discuss the current status of immunotherapy for Alzheimer’s disease, both targeting beta-amyloid and targeting neuroinflammation.  

ACCREDITATION

Houston Methodist designates this live activity for a maximum of 6.75 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

For more information please visit the official event page.