Mount Sinai is one of over 30 NIH funded research centers across the country. The purpose of the research is to understand the cause and nature of Alzheimer’s and to develop new treatments to slow down and ultimately cure/prevent this illness. Participating in research is a way to help others in the future as well as the possibility help in your treatment of Alzheimer’s. Research families receive support from a whole team of health care professionals. Currently, we are conducting a variety of research studies.

Currently Recruiting Trials

Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) Study

CERE-110 is research drug being used in gene therapy research for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In this study genes are transferred to brain cells via neurosurgery so that the body can make NGF, a naturally occurring protein that might increase the survival of neurons that die in AD. The purpose of this phase 2 clinical trial is to find out if this type of gene therapy technique, neurosurgically injecting CERE-110, is safe, well-tolerated, and of benefit when given to people with AD.

For more information, please contact Judy Creighton   judycreightonmssmedu   at (212) 241-8329. MSSM #09-0367; Principal Investigator: Judy Neugroschl, M.D. MSSM approved through 4/23/12.

Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative – Grand Opportunity (ADNI-GO)

In this study, we hope to determine whether imaging of the brain through MRI, PET and amyloid imaging scans can help predict and monitor the onset and progression of Alzheimer’s disease. In addition to neuroimaging, the study will collect and test blood and cerebral spinal fluid to determine if biomarkers can predict and monitor the disease. This study is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health and will take place at about 50 major universities across the US and Canada. No study drug is used in this research. Participants cannot be involved in other clinical trials while in this study. This is a longitudinal study which will span several years. We are looking for volunteers who can participate for the full duration. The study needs volunteers who: are between 55 and 90 years of age, in god health but have memory problems and concerns, are fluent in English or Spanish, are willing and able to undergo the test procedures, and have a study partner – a friend or relative who can accompany the volunteer to all clinic visits. Participant’s health will be closely monitored by a team of doctors and nurses. Participants will receive compensation for their time and costs incurred for travel, parking and meals.

For more information, please contact Aliza Romirowsky   alizaromirowskymssmedu   at (212) 241-1514. MSSM #10-0329; Principal Investigator: Hillel Grossman, M.D. MSSM approved through 3/29/12.

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Neuroimaging in Head Injury and Cognitive Decline

This is a study investigating brain and memory and thinking problems associated with having a history of concussion or mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a sample of individuals between the ages of 50 and 80. We are investigating whether having a history of concussion or mild TBI with and without mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is distinct by using MRI and tests of memory and thinking. We are looking for participants with either a history of concussion/mild TBI and MCI or a history of TBI without MCI. Participants must be English speakers. Participants will receive compensation for their time.

For more information, please contact Elisheva Bellin   elishevabellinmssmedu   at (212) 241-5290. MSSM #10-0954; Principal Investigator: Effie M. Mitsis, PhD MSSM approved through 10/11/12.