Alzheimer’s Clinical Research Trials

Our extensive experience in Alzheimer’s research, combined with our relationships with leading universities and pharmaceutical companies, supports the advancement of early detection, the slowing of disease progress, and our quest to end Alzheimer’s disease.

Leading the Way in Alzheimer’s Research

At the Frank C. and Lynn Scaduto MIND Institute at Miami Jewish Health, we have a rich history in administering Alzheimer’s clinical research trials for seniors. As part of our mission to find a cure, we maintain strong affiliations with esteemed institutions such as Johns Hopkins University and the University of Southern California. We also work alongside leading pharmaceutical companies like Eli Lilly, Eisai, Biogen, and many others to drive progress in Alzheimer’s research.

Our clinical research trials employ the latest methodologies and are guided by the most promising theories in the field. By joining our community of participants, you become a vital part of the journey to develop medical treatments for Alzheimer’s disease that will change lives.

Our Approach to Alzheimer’s Clinical Research

There are two abnormal substances thought to play a significant role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease: amyloid beta peptides and tau proteins.

Amyloid beta peptides form plaques on the exterior of neurons, while tau proteins create disruptive “tangles” within the neurons themselves. These disruptions contribute to memory loss and various forms of neurocognitive impairment.

Our Alzheimer’s clinical research trials are particularly focused on immunotherapies – which train the immune system to remove these substances from the brain. Through the use of synthetic peptides and monoclonal antibodies, immunotherapies show promise in slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.

What Can Participants Expect?

Participants can expect clinical research trials to last for a minimum of a few months. However, some clinical research trials can take several years. On average, monthly visits to the testing site are required that may last between 1.5 – 5 hours. During a visit, participants may undergo study assessments, medication infusions, vital signs checkups, lab work, physical exams and/or neurological exams depending on the type of clinical research trial.

To recognize the contributions they bring to advancing our research, participants receive a small stipend for participating in any of our Alzheimer’s clinical trials. Additionally, we offer access to MIND Institute’s comprehensive memory care programs designed to support individuals and their caregivers on this challenging journey. The participant and their caregiver are paid per visit completed. The stipend amount varies per trial and sometimes per visit.

All study details are explained during an eligibility screening over the phone. We’re also happy to answer any additional questions during the screening.

How to Sign Up for an Alzheimer’s Clinical Research Trial

To qualify for participation, individuals must have mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, be aged 50-90+, and have a dedicated caregiver. There may be additional qualification requirements depending on the clinical trial.

All clinical research trials take place at the Frank C. and Lynn Scaduto MIND Institute – located on the second floor of the Albin Building on Miami Jewish Health’s main campus.

If you are interested in participating in or learning more about our Alzheimer’s clinical trials, please call 305.514.8710 or complete the form at the bottom of this page.

Current Alzheimer’s Clinical Research Trials

Clinical Research Trial of Piromelatine 20mg (Neurim Pharmaceuticals)

• Study Description: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Piromelatine vs. placebo in modifying Alzheimer’s Disease progression
• Diagnosis: Mild Alzheimer’s Disease
• Ages: 60 – 80 years of age

Clinical Research Trial of Simufilam (Cassava Sciences)

• Study Description: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Simufilam vs. placebo for treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
• Diagnosis: Mild to moderate Alzheimer’s Disease
• Ages: 50 – 87 years of age

Nicotine Treatment (Vanderbilt University and University of Southern California)

• Study Description: To test whether daily transdermal nicotine will produce sustained cognitive, clinical, and functional benefits for patients with MCI in a 2-year multi-center clinical trial
• Diagnosis: Mild cognitive impairment
• Ages: 55+

Clinical Research Trial of Dronabinol (John’s Hopkins University)

• Study Description: The primary objective of the proposal is to assess Dronabinol as a treatment for moderate to severe agitation in Alzheimer’s Disease patients
• Diagnosis:  Agitation in dementia related to Alzheimer’s Disease
• Ages: 60 – 95

Clinical Research Trial for Treatment of Psychosis associated with Alzheimer’s (Karuna Therapeutics)

• Study Description: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of xanomeline mixed with trospium for treating Psychosis associated with Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia
• Diagnosis: Psychosis in Alzheimer’s Disease
• Ages: 55 – 90 years of age

Clinical Research Trial of Masupirdine to Treat Agitation (Suven Life Sciences)

• Study Description: To evaluate the safety and efficacy of Masupirdine for treating agitation related to Alzheimer’s Disease
• Diagnosis: Agitation in dementia related to Alzheimer’s Disease
• Ages: 50 – 90 years of age

Microbiome in Gut and Brain Study (University of South Florida)

• Study Description: To understand the difference in the microbiome between participants with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease compared with those with no memory problems
• Diagnosis: No cognitive impairment, mild cognitive impairment, or Alzheimer’s Disease
• Ages: 60+ years of age