Exploring Innovation in Alzheimer's Disease Research

Highlights from CTAD 2024

17th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer's Disease (CTAD)
Madrid (Spain) October 29 - November 1, 2024

Last week, our team travelled to Madrid to participate in the 17th Clinical Trials on Alzheimer’s Disease (CTAD) conference, where we had the opportunity to present our latest research and connect with experts across academia and industry.

Our contributions to the conference spanned a range of topics, reflecting our commitment to advancing Alzheimer’s disease (AD) research through technology and innovative biomarkers. We have summarised our highlights, key presentations, findings and emerging themes from the conference.

Speech-Based Biomarkers for Measuring AD Progression
A highlight of our team’s participation was a presentation by Michael Spilka, PhD, on speech-based biomarkers. This research introduced an automated marker that can measure AD progression using speech from the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) Scale interviews. The study evaluated three strategies for developing these markers, ultimately finding that our validated speech-based marker offered a simple, reliable, and objective means of tracking disease progression. This approach not only minimizes the assessment burden on patients but also enhances clinical trial data by providing a scalable, patient-centric method to measure cognitive decline.

Advancements in Smartphone-Based Cognitive Assessments
The CTAD conference also featured our latest research on cognitive testing using mobile technology. Emily Thorp presented a poster on the comparability and usability of Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB®) assessments when delivered via smartphones. The findings highlight how smartphones can reliably administer cognitive tasks, aligning with desktop versions and preserving data quality. This portability has the potential to broaden participation in clinical trials and make data collection more flexible and accessible.

Reaction-Time Measures in Episodic Memory Tasks
Another exciting development was shared in a poster by Alex Kaula, PhD, presented by Nick Taptiklis. This study explored the use of reaction-time (RT) data from our Paired Associates Learning (PAL) task to capture cognitive performance nuances. Typically used to assess episodic memory, the PAL task’s RT data offers additional insights into cognitive function, potentially enhancing the sensitivity of memory assessment. By focusing on RT, the study sheds light on subtle cognitive changes, contributing to the refinement of cognitive endpoints in AD trials.

Unpacking Cognitive Decline in Preclinical AD
Nick Taptiklis presented new data on longitudinal analysis, examining cognitive decline in preclinical AD using a multidomain task battery. Focusing on understanding the structure of cognitive decline over time, and aiming to improve early detection of AD in aging populations, this research identified consistent patterns, which has the potential to inform future clinical trials and therapeutic approaches for those in the early stages of cognitive impairment.

Key Themes from CTAD 2024
In addition to our presentations, the conference showcased an impressive range of research and perspectives. Notable highlights included:

Lifetime Achievement in AD Research: Lars Lannfelt was honoured with the CTAD Lifetime Achievement Award for his groundbreaking work in AD therapeutic research. His keynote speech traced his journey from the discovery of the role of beta-amyloid in AD to the development of lecanemab, an antibody treatment now on the market. Lannfelt’s work underscores the full lifecycle of AD drug development, from scientific discovery to clinical application.

Blood-Based Biomarkers: As a low-cost, minimally invasive option, blood-based biomarkers hold promise for enhancing early diagnosis and enabling more efficient tracking of disease progression, particularly phosphorylated tau at threonine 217 (p-tau217).
Digital Cognitive Assessment: Many posters highlighted the growing use of digital cognitive assessments and voice analysis in AD trials. With highly sensitive and validated assessments, Cambridge Cognition offers tools are increasingly recognized as valuable, low-burden endpoints for tracking cognitive changes in clinical settings.
Novel Treatment Approaches: Novel treatment modalities generated much interest. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), immunotherapeutics targeting the immune response in AD, and BDNF gene therapy were among the approaches discussed. These emerging treatments may offer complementary or alternative options to monoclonal antibody therapies, expanding treatment possibilities for patients.
Real-World Evidence and Diversity in Clinical Trials: The conference highlighted the importance of real-world evidence (RWE) and diversity in trial populations. As the AD field advances, real-world data will play a critical role in optimizing treatment approaches, while increasing diversity in trials ensures broader applicability and impact across populations.

Conclusion
CTAD 2024 emphasized the critical role of innovative biomarkers and digital assessments in advancing Alzheimer’s research and care. Our team’s work on speech-based biomarkers, smartphone cognitive testing, and RT-based memory assessments reflects our commitment to pushing the boundaries of AD research. These innovations are not only enhancing the way we track disease progression but also paving the way for more patient-centred and accessible clinical trials.
As we return from CTAD 2024, we’re inspired by the collaborative spirit and shared vision within the AD research community. Together with our colleagues and partners, we are committed to advancing solutions that improve outcomes for those affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

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