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Boston Area Alzheimer's Trials Showing Promise

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Oct 14, 2008 1:48 pm US/Eastern

Boston Area Alzheimer's Trials Showing Promise

NEWTON (WBZ) ― A new study released Tuesday finds that taking mega-doses of B vitamins does not appear to slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Boston area researchers are testing some promising new compounds which may do just that.

A trial at Neurocare Center for Research in Newton is testing an experimental antibody which attacks proteins linked to Alzheimer's.

Walter Hartel is among the study participants. He was diagnosed with Alzheimer's about four years ago, shortly after his wife noticed he was having memory trouble.

Read: 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer's

"Our world has become very small," said Karyn Barry, Walter's wife. "Playing the piano is not the joy it used to be, playing Scrabble and things like that have become frustrating."

Alzheimer's disease now limits Walter's ability to work, drive and travel like he used to.

"We knew what would happen and the only hope of turning things around would be the study," said Karyn.

Dr. Michael Biber of Neurocare explained what the research has found so far. "It appears to improve function of patients and has the possibility of retarding the progression of disease."

Biber is also testing a new pill called Dimebon (pdf) which has also shown promise in slowing down Alzheimer's.

"Those patients were doing as well in terms of thinking and memory 18 months after the trial," Biber said. "There was no progression during that time which is really remarkable for an Alzheimer's drug."

Walter and Karen are hoping that one of these drugs can help him and other patients. "I could maybe drive my car again and feel free hiking in the woods," Walter said.

"We're hoping to make Walter better and help the understanding of the disease," said Karen.

Researchers are still looking for patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer's and their caregivers to take part in the study. If you'd like more information, call Neurocare Toll Free Hotline at 1.800.958.1218 or visit their web site.

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