About the AHEAD study

The AHEAD Study is testing whether an investigational drug can lower the amount of amyloid in the brain and how that impacts decline in memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease.

The AHEAD Study consists of two clinical trials: the AHEAD-3 trial (or A-3) and the AHEAD-45 trial (or A-45). Both trials enroll healthy adults (55-80 years of age) who are thought to be at increased risk for brain changes and memory loss associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The studies will use an investigational treatment called BAN2401. An investigational treatment is an intervention that is studied in a clinical trial. The AHEAD clinical trials will compare BAN2401 (an anti-amyloid antibody) to a placebo (an inactive substance designed to mimic the appearance of the treatment). BAN2401 may slow accumulation (build up) of, or remove a protein known as “amyloid” or “beta amyloid” that forms amyloid plaques in the brain. Clinicians and researchers believe that accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain may play a key role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease symptoms, such as memory loss and problems with thinking.

The AHEAD Study is testing this investigational anti-amyloid treatment (BAN2401) in people who have evidence of amyloid build up in their brain but who do not show symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. As the early brain changes and memory decline associated with Alzheimer’s disease occur over many years, the AHEAD Study requires participation for four and a half years with study visits occurring once or twice a month. We realize this is a major time commitment, but we hope this study will provide critical information to help us one day stop Alzheimer’s disease before symptoms begin.

The Goals of the AHEAD Study

The overall goal of the AHEAD Study is to determine whether intervention with an investigational anti-amyloid treatment (BAN2401), if started, before symptoms are clinically apparent, can slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease changes in the brain and delay memory loss.

The AHEAD Study will also help us understand what early Alzheimer’s disease changes in the brain, such as specific levels of amyloid, are associated with cognitive decline.

The AHEAD Study may help us both understand why some groups are at increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease and find the most appropriate treatment for all individuals.

Why Participate in the AHEAD Study?

The AHEAD study tests whether a new treatment can slow brain changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
The AHEAD study builds on decades of research.
Participants work with experts to perform groundbreaking science.
Participants contribute to research that aims to help future generations.