Researchers at University of Saskatchewan Testing New Clinical Trial to Fight Alzheimer’s
The University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon is leading a clinical trial to combat Alzheimer’s disease. According to Dr. Ron Geyer, a professor at the University, there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, and existing therapies only suppress symptoms. However, NeuroEPO, a drug being studied in early Alzheimer’s patients, has shown promising results in Phase 1 trials.
The drug has been proven to slow the progression of Alzheimer’s and even reverse cognitive decline in some patients. During the trial, 80% of participants showed stabilization cognitive function after one year of treatment. NeuroEPO increases red blood cell production, preventing cell death and aiding in the growth of brain neurons.
The USask team is collaborating with local organizations to recruit participants for the trial, which will involve administering the drug through the nose three times a week. The direct nose-to-brain delivery method is quick and prevents negative side effects in other organs. It takes mere minutes for the drug to be transmitted, which will hopefully lead to better treatment plans and reduced hospitalization.
The program aims to begin clinical trials this summer. The drug administration is described as a smaller version of a COVID swab without the tickly part on the end, and it diffuses at the back of the nose where sensory neurons for smelling are located. The University of Saskatchewan is optimistic about the potential of this trial to make a significant impact in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.