Spring / Summer 2023 | Research 13
Alzheimer ’ s Drug Approval Shows Promise of Protein Markers for Neurodegenerative Diseases
The FDA approved lecanemab ( brand name Leqembi ), a new drug that targets amyloid-beta protein in the brain , which is believed to contribute to the cell death that causes thinking and memory changes in Alzheimer ’ s disease . The lecanemab approval came with data showing changes in amyloid-beta with the drug and demonstrates the power of protein markers in neurodegenerative diseases . MJFF and Parkinson ’ s researchers are working urgently to test therapies targeting alpha-synuclein , the protein found in most people with Parkinson ’ s disease , with promising leads in measures including imaging and biofluids .
Nuplazid Safety News
New studies have affirmed the safety of Nuplazid ( pimavanserin ), approved by the FDA in 2016 for people with Parkinson ’ s disease psychosis ( hallucinations and delusions ). A 2021 study published in Neurology found that people over age 65 with Parkinson ’ s who were taking Nuplazid had a higher risk of hospitalization or death than people not taking the drug . However , top Parkinson ’ s physicians have pointed out the study had significant limitations , including that comparison groups were not equally matched . The newer studies show Nuplazid is as safe as other anti-psychosis medications .