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Livingston G, Huntley J, Liu KY, Costafreda SG, Selbæk G, Alladi S, Ames D, Banerjee S, Burns A, Brayne C, Fox NC, Ferri CP, Gitlin LN, Howard R, Kales HC, Kivimäki M, Larson EB, Nakasujja N, Rockwood K, Samus Q, Shirai K, Singh-Manoux A, Schneider LS, Walsh S, Yao Y, Sommerlad A, Mukadam N. Dementia prevention, intervention, and care: 2024 report of the Lancet standing Commission. Lancet 2024; 404:572-628. [PMID: 39096926 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(24)01296-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK.
| | - Jonathan Huntley
- Department of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Kathy Y Liu
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Sergi G Costafreda
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Geir Selbæk
- Norwegian National Advisory Unit on Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Geriatric Department, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Suvarna Alladi
- National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore, India
| | - David Ames
- National Ageing Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; University of Melbourne Academic Unit for Psychiatry of Old Age, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Sube Banerjee
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | | | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Nick C Fox
- The Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London, London, UK
| | - Cleusa P Ferri
- Health Technology Assessment Unit, Hospital Alemão Oswaldo Cruz, São Paulo, Brazil; Department of Psychiatry, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Laura N Gitlin
- College of Nursing and Health Professions, AgeWell Collaboratory, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Helen C Kales
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, UC Davis School of Medicine, University of California, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Mika Kivimäki
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Department of Public Health, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eric B Larson
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Noeline Nakasujja
- Department of Psychiatry College of Health Sciences, Makerere University College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala City, Uganda
| | - Kenneth Rockwood
- Centre for the Health Care of Elderly People, Geriatric Medicine, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Quincy Samus
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Johns Hopkins Bayview, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Kokoro Shirai
- Graduate School of Social and Environmental Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Archana Singh-Manoux
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Université Paris Cité, Inserm U1153, Paris, France
| | - Lon S Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry and the Behavioural Sciences and Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Sebastian Walsh
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Yao Yao
- China Center for Health Development Studies, School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing, China; Key Laboratory of Epidemiology of Major Diseases (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing, China
| | - Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Naaheed Mukadam
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK; Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Ribba B, Simuni T, Marek K, Siderowf A, Diack C, Pierrillas PB, Monnet A, Ricci B, Nikolcheva T, Pagano G. Modeling of Parkinson's Disease Progression and Implications for Detection of Disease Modification in Treatment Trials. JOURNAL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE 2024:JPD230446. [PMID: 39058452 DOI: 10.3233/jpd-230446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
Background Objectively measuring Parkinson's disease (PD) signs and symptoms over time is critical for the successful development of treatments aimed at halting the disease progression of people with PD. Objective To create a clinical trial simulation tool that characterizes the natural history of PD progression and enables a data-driven design of randomized controlled studies testing potential disease-modifying treatments (DMT) in early-stage PD. Methods Data from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative (PPMI) were analyzed with nonlinear mixed-effect modeling techniques to characterize the progression of MDS-UPDRS part I (non-motor aspects of experiences of daily living), part II (motor aspects of experiences of daily living), and part III (motor signs). A clinical trial simulation tool was built from these disease models and used to predict probability of success as a function of trial design. Results MDS-UPDRS part III progresses approximately 3 times faster than MDS-UPDRS part II and I, with an increase of 3 versus 1 points/year. Higher amounts of symptomatic therapy is associated with slower progression of MDS-UPDRS part II and III. The modeling framework predicts that a DMT effect on MDS-UPDRS part III could precede effect on part II by approximately 2 to 3 years. Conclusions Our clinical trial simulation tool predicted that in a two-year randomized controlled trial, MDS-UPDRS part III could be used to evaluate a potential novel DMT, while part II would require longer trials of a minimum duration of 3 to 5 years underscoring the need for innovative trial design approaches including novel patient-centric measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Ribba
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tanya Simuni
- Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kenneth Marek
- Institute for Neurodegenerative Disorders, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Andrew Siderowf
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Cheikh Diack
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philippe Bernard Pierrillas
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Annabelle Monnet
- Roche Product Development, F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Benedicte Ricci
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tania Nikolcheva
- Roche Product Development, F. Hoffmann La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Gennaro Pagano
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development (pRED), Roche Innovation Center, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
- University of Exeter Medical School, London, UK
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Lansdall CJ, Teng E, Chague J, Palanganda R, Delmar P, Smith J, Cummings JL, McDougall F. Care partner-informed meaningful change thresholds for the Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes for trials of early Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement 2024. [PMID: 39015065 DOI: 10.1002/alz.14050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Consensus definitions of meaningful within-patient change (MWPC) on the Clinical Dementia Rating-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) are needed. Existing estimates use clinician-rated anchors in clinically diagnosed Alzheimer's disease (AD) populations. Incorporating the care partner perspective offers important insights, and evaluating biomarker-confirmed cohorts aligns estimates with ongoing trials. METHODS Anchor-based analyses were conducted to evaluate MWPC on the CDR-SB in early AD (Tauriel; NCT03289143) using Caregiver Global Impression of Change in memory or daily activities. RESULTS Across time points and anchors, mean CDR-SB changes associated with the "somewhat worse" category ranged from 1.50 to 2.12 in early AD, 1.07 to 2.06 in mild cognitive impairment-AD, and 1.79 to 2.25 in mild AD. DISCUSSION The proposed ranges are appropriate to define meaningful progression on the CDR-SB in similar cohorts and support the interpretation of treatment benefit through MWPC analyses. Thresholds should be calibrated to the context of use; lower/higher thresholds may be applicable in studies of earlier/later disease over shorter/longer durations. HIGHLIGHTS Within-patient CDR-SB change thresholds are provided using caregiver-rated anchors. 1.5 to 2.5 points may be an appropriate range in early AD trials of similar durations. Cumulative distribution function plots illustrate the benefit of a given treatment. When selecting thresholds, the target population and study design should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire J Lansdall
- Product Development, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Edmond Teng
- Early Clinical Development, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Jerome Chague
- Product Development, Data Science, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Rohan Palanganda
- Product Development, Data Science, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, UK
| | - Paul Delmar
- Product Development, Data Science, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Janice Smith
- Product Development, Neuroscience, Roche Products Ltd, Welwyn Garden City, UK
| | - Jeffrey L Cummings
- Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Fiona McDougall
- Product Development, Patient-Centered Outcomes Research, Genentech, Inc., South San Francisco, California, USA
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Bhalala OG, Thompson J, Watson R, Yassi N. Contextualising the benefits and risks of anti-amyloid therapy for patients with Alzheimer disease and their care team. Med J Aust 2024; 221:78-82. [PMID: 38894659 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Oneil G Bhalala
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Jane Thompson
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Rosie Watson
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
| | - Nawaf Yassi
- Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, VIC
- Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
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Zhu CW, Sano M. Meaningful benefit of disease-modifying treatment: Evaluating changes in health-related resource use. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2024; 10:e12455. [PMID: 39086734 PMCID: PMC11289728 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Are reductions in the rate of decline from the new disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) in early Alzheimer's disease (AD) meaningful? We examined whether such reductions may be reflected in changes in health-related resource use. METHODS Patients with Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) = 0.5 or 1 with a clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment or AD, reflecting clinical trial populations. Health-related resource use was reported using the Resource Use Inventory (RUI) including direct medical care, non-medical care, unpaid informal care, and time use. RESULTS Faster decline in CDR-Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) from baseline was independently associated with higher likelihood and hours of informal care received, and lower likelihood of employment/volunteer work, but not with direct medical care. DISCUSSION Reductions in the rate of decline in CDR-SB seen from DMTs significantly affect patients' work capacity and need for informal care, indicators of economic impact meaningful to patients, families, and health systems. These measures are not readily captured in administrative data sets. Highlights Following a cohort of participants with MCI or mild dementia due to AD that mimics participants targeted for AD trials, this study showed slower decline in CDR-SB have significant effects on patients' work capacity and need for informal care, but not on their direct medical care utilization such as hospitalizations, ED use, and doctors' visits.Capturing potential benefits in health-related resource use may require direct measures of informal care and work/volunteer effort which are meaningful outcomes to patients, families and health systems.Caution is needed in our effort to assess benefits of recently developed disease modifying treatment in AD using electronic health records and administrative data from which utilization of direct medical care are routinely collected as these data sources may not capture the most apparent changes in resource utilization during early disease stages.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn W. Zhu
- Brookdale Department of Geriatrics and Palliative MedicineIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- James J. Peters VA Medical CenterBronxNew YorkUSA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterDepartment of PsychiatryIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Mary Sano
- James J. Peters VA Medical CenterBronxNew YorkUSA
- Alzheimer's Disease Research CenterDepartment of PsychiatryIcahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiNew YorkNew YorkUSA
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Wang G, Cutter G, Oxtoby NP, Shan G, Wang W, Mangal B, Liao Y, Llibre-Guerra JJ, Li Y, Xiong C, McDade E, Delmar P, Bateman RJ, Schneider L. Statistical considerations when estimating time-saving treatment effects in Alzheimer's disease clinical trials. Alzheimers Dement 2024. [PMID: 39030751 DOI: 10.1002/alz.14035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Estimating treatment effects as time savings in disease progression may be more easily interpretable than assessing the absolute difference or a percentage reduction. In this study, we investigate the statistical considerations of the existing method for estimating time savings and propose alternative complementary methods. METHODS We propose five alternative methods to estimate the time savings from different perspectives. These methods are applied to simulated clinical trial data that mimic or modify the Clinical Dementia Rating Sum of Boxes progression trajectories observed in the Clarity AD lecanemab trial. RESULTS Our study demonstrates that the proposed methods can generate more precise estimates by considering two crucial factors: (1) the absolute difference between treatment arms, and (2) the observed progression rate in the treatment arm. DISCUSSION Quantifying treatment effects as time savings in disease progression offers distinct advantages. To provide comprehensive estimations, it is important to use various methods. HIGHLIGHTS We explore the statistical considerations of the current method for estimating time savings. We proposed alternative methods that provide time savings estimations based on the observed absolute differences. By using various methods, a more comprehensive estimation of time savings can be achieved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guoqiao Wang
- Department of Neurology, Division of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
- Division of Biostatistics, Washington University, School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Gary Cutter
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Neil P Oxtoby
- Department of Computer Science, University College London, London, UK
| | - Guogen Shan
- Department of Biostatistics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Whedy Wang
- Tenaya Therapeutics, South San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Brian Mangal
- Solara Consulting Corp., North Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Yijie Liao
- Neogene Therapeutics, Inc., Santa Monica, California, USA
| | - Jorge J Llibre-Guerra
- Department of Neurology, Division of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Neurology, Division of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Chengjie Xiong
- Division of Biostatistics, Washington University, School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Eric McDade
- Department of Neurology, Division of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Paul Delmar
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Basel, Switzerland
| | - Randall J Bateman
- Department of Neurology, Division of Biostatistics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Lon Schneider
- Department of Psychiatry and The Behavioral Sciences, Department of Neurology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Reda SM, Setti SE, Berthiaume AA, Wu W, Taylor RW, Johnston JL, Stein LR, Moebius HJ, Church KJ. Fosgonimeton attenuates amyloid-beta toxicity in preclinical models of Alzheimer's disease. Neurotherapeutics 2024; 21:e00350. [PMID: 38599894 PMCID: PMC11067346 DOI: 10.1016/j.neurot.2024.e00350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 04/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Positive modulation of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) signaling may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease (AD) based on its multimodal neurotrophic, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects addressing the complex pathophysiology of neurodegeneration. Fosgonimeton is a small-molecule positive modulator of the HGF system that has demonstrated neurotrophic and pro-cognitive effects in preclinical models of dementia. Herein, we evaluate the neuroprotective potential of fosgonimeton, or its active metabolite, fosgo-AM, in amyloid-beta (Aβ)-driven preclinical models of AD, providing mechanistic insight into its mode of action. In primary rat cortical neurons challenged with Aβ (Aβ1-42), fosgo-AM treatment significantly improved neuronal survival, protected neurite networks, and reduced tau hyperphosphorylation. Interrogation of intracellular events indicated that cortical neurons treated with fosgo-AM exhibited a significant decrease in mitochondrial oxidative stress and cytochrome c release. Following Aβ injury, fosgo-AM significantly enhanced activation of pro-survival effectors ERK and AKT, and reduced activity of GSK3β, one of the main kinases involved in tau hyperphosphorylation. Fosgo-AM also mitigated Aβ-induced deficits in Unc-like kinase 1 (ULK1) and Beclin-1, suggesting a potential effect on autophagy. Treatment with fosgo-AM protected cortical neurons from glutamate excitotoxicity, and such effects were abolished in the presence of an AKT or MEK/ERK inhibitor. In vivo, fosgonimeton administration led to functional improvement in an intracerebroventricular Aβ25-35 rat model of AD, as it significantly rescued cognitive function in the passive avoidance test. Together, our data demonstrate the ability of fosgonimeton to counteract mechanisms of Aβ-induced toxicity. Fosgonimeton is currently in clinical trials for mild-to-moderate AD (NCT04488419; NCT04886063).
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Affiliation(s)
- Sherif M Reda
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | - Sharay E Setti
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | | | - Wei Wu
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | - Robert W Taylor
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | - Jewel L Johnston
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | - Liana R Stein
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | - Hans J Moebius
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA
| | - Kevin J Church
- Athira Pharma, Inc., 18706 North Creek Parkway, Suite 104, Bothell, WA, 98011, USA.
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Klein EG, Schroeder K, Wessels AM, Phipps A, Japha M, Schilling T, Zimmer JA. How donanemab data address the coverage with evidence development questions. Alzheimers Dement 2024; 20:3127-3140. [PMID: 38323738 PMCID: PMC11032520 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) established a class-based National Coverage Determination (NCD) for monoclonal antibodies directed against amyloid for Alzheimer's disease (AD) with patient access through Coverage with Evidence Development (CED) based on three questions. This review, focused on donanemab, answers each of these CED questions with quality evidence. TRAILBLAZER-ALZ registration trials are presented with supporting literature and real-world data to answer CED questions for donanemab. TRAILBLAZER-ALZ registration trials demonstrated that donanemab significantly slowed cognitive and functional decline in amyloid-positive early symptomatic AD participants, and lowered their risk of disease progression while key safety risks occurred primarily within the first 6 months and then declined. Donanemab meaningfully improved health outcomes with a manageable safety profile in an early symptomatic AD population, representative of Medicare populations across diverse practice settings. The donanemab data provide the necessary level of evidence for CMS to open a reconsideration of their NCD. HIGHLIGHTS: Donanemab meaningfully improved outcomes in trial participants with early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. Comorbidities in trial participants were consistent with the Medicare population. Co-medications in trial participants were consistent with the Medicare population. Risks associated with treatment tended to occur in the first 6 months. Risks of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities were managed with careful observation and magnetic resonance imaging monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric G. Klein
- Global Medical Affairs, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Krista Schroeder
- Research and Development, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Alette M. Wessels
- Research and Development, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Adam Phipps
- Lilly Value and Access, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Maureen Japha
- Corporate Affairs, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Traci Schilling
- Global Medical Affairs, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
| | - Jennifer A. Zimmer
- Research and Development, Eli Lilly and CompanyLilly Corporate CenterIndianapolisIndianaUSA
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Jönsson L, Ivkovic M, Atri A, Handels R, Gustavsson A, Hahn-Pedersen JH, León T, Lilja M, Gundgaard J, Raket LL. Progression analysis versus traditional methods to quantify slowing of disease progression in Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:48. [PMID: 38424559 PMCID: PMC10903002 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01413-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The clinical meaningfulness of the effects of recently approved disease-modifying treatments (DMT) in Alzheimer's disease is under debate. Available evidence is limited to short-term effects on clinical rating scales which may be difficult to interpret and have limited intrinsic meaning to patients. The main value of DMTs accrues over the long term as they are expected to cause a delay or slowing of disease progression. While awaiting such evidence, the translation of short-term effects to time delays or slowing of progression could offer a powerful and readily interpretable representation of clinical outcomes. METHODS We simulated disease progression trajectories representing two arms, active and placebo, of a hypothetical clinical trial of a DMT. The placebo arm was simulated based on estimated mean trajectories of clinical dementia rating scale-sum of boxes (CDR-SB) recordings from amyloid-positive subjects with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) from Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI). The active arm was simulated to show an average slowing of disease progression versus placebo of 20% at each visit. The treatment effects in the simulated trials were estimated with a progression model for repeated measures (PMRM) and a mixed model for repeated measures (MMRM) for comparison. For PMRM, the treatment effect is expressed in units of time (e.g., days) and for MMRM in units of the outcome (e.g., CDR-SB points). PMRM results were implemented in a health economics Markov model extrapolating disease progression and death over 15 years. RESULTS The PMRM model estimated a 19% delay in disease progression at 18 months and 20% (~ 7 months delay) at 36 months, while the MMRM model estimated a 25% reduction in CDR-SB (~ 0.5 points) at 36 months. The PMRM model had slightly greater power compared to MMRM. The health economic model based on the estimated time delay suggested an increase in life expectancy (10 months) without extending time in severe stages of disease. CONCLUSION PMRM methods can be used to estimate treatment effects in terms of slowing of progression which translates to time metrics that can be readily interpreted and appreciated as meaningful outcomes for patients, care partners, and health care practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linus Jönsson
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, 171 64, Sweden.
| | | | - Alireza Atri
- Banner Sun Health Research Institute and Banner Alzheimer's Institute, Banner Health, Sun City and Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Center for Brain/Mind Medicine, Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ron Handels
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, 171 64, Sweden
- Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, School for Mental Health and Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Neuropsychology, Alzheimer Centre Limburg, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, MD, 6200, The Netherlands
| | - Anders Gustavsson
- Division of Neurogeriatrics, Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institutet, Solna, 171 64, Sweden
- Quantify Research, Hantverkargatan 8, Stockholm, 112 21, Sweden
| | | | | | - Mathias Lilja
- Quantify Research, Hantverkargatan 8, Stockholm, 112 21, Sweden
| | | | - Lars Lau Raket
- Novo Nordisk A/S, Søborg, Denmark
- Clinical Memory Research Unit, Department of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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10
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Tarawneh R, Pankratz VS. The search for clarity regarding "clinically meaningful outcomes" in Alzheimer disease clinical trials: CLARITY-AD and Beyond. Alzheimers Res Ther 2024; 16:37. [PMID: 38365811 PMCID: PMC10870501 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-024-01412-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
CLARITY-AD is an 18-month, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial which examined the safety and efficacy of the anti-amyloid agent, lecanemab, in mild cognitive impairment and mild dementia due to Alzheimer disease (AD). Lecanemab effectively reduced mean brain amyloid burden and was associated with statistically significant favorable effects, reflected by moderately less decline in the primary and secondary clinical outcomes, at 18 months compared to placebo. However, there is controversy within the AD community regarding the clinical significance of these results and whether they translate into clinically meaningful and tangible benefits on cognition or daily functions.We here review the primary and secondary clinical outcomes of CLARITY-AD and present our interpretation of the potential clinical meaningfulness of the group-level differences in study outcomes in the context of the 18-month study duration. We propose that the validation of stage-appropriate group-level thresholds for clinical meaningfulness of AD trial outcomes in biologically confirmed cohorts will allow objective interpretation of trial results and guide clinical decision-making. Further, in accordance with FDA guidance which emphasizes patient-focused drug development, the contextualization of AD clinical trial outcomes can be facilitated by supplementary individual-level data analyses which measure the risk of disease progression or summarize intraindividual change, using prespecified thresholds of clinically meaningful change, in each of the study groups over the trial period. The concepts of "time-saved" and "time-based" slowing in disease progression can be used to communicate clinical outcomes associated with emerging disease-modifying AD therapies to various stakeholders. We also describe several factors that need to be considered when evaluating outcomes of emerging AD therapies, including disease stage, the neuropathologic complexity of AD, time-based effects of disease-modifying therapies, and the possible influence of individual factors on treatment response and/or risk for adverse events. The consideration of these factors in the design and reporting of future trials of emerging AD therapies will guide clinicians regarding their appropriateness for use in various patient populations.Finally, we emphasize that data from clinical cohorts with longer durations of treatment and follow-up, including extension studies and patient registries, is needed to evaluate the long-term safety and efficacy of lecanemab in early symptomatic AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawan Tarawneh
- Department of Neurology and Center for Memory and Aging, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
| | - Vernon S Pankratz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Preventive Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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Teipel SJ, Temp AGM, Lutz MW. Bayesian meta-analysis of phase 3 results of aducanumab, lecanemab, donanemab, and high-dose gantenerumab in prodromal and mild Alzheimer's disease. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2024; 10:e12454. [PMID: 38389855 PMCID: PMC10883242 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Phase 3 trials using the anti-amyloid antibodies aducanumab, lecanemab, donanemab, and high-dose gantenerumab in prodromal and mild Alzheimer's disease dementia were heterogeneous in respect to statistical significance of effects. However, heterogeneity of results has not yet directly be quantified. METHODS We used Bayesian random effects meta-analysis to quantify evidence for or against a treatment effect, and assessed the size of the effect and its heterogeneity. Data were extracted from published studies where available and Web based data reports, assuming a Gaussian data generation process. RESULTS We found moderate evidence in favor of a treatment effect (Bayes factor = 13.2). The effect was moderate to small with -0.33 (95% credible interval -0.54 to -0.10) points on the Clinical Dementia Rating - Sum of Boxes (CDR-SB) scale. The heterogeneity parameter was low to moderate with 0.21 (0.04 to 0.45) CDR-SB points. DISCUSSION Heterogeneity across studies was moderate despite some trials reaching statistical significance, while others did not. This suggests that the negative aducanumab and gantenerumab trials are in full agreement with the expected effect sizes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan J Teipel
- Working group on clincial dementia research Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Rostock Germany
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine University Medicine Rostock Rostock Germany
| | - Anna G M Temp
- Working group on clincial dementia research Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen (DZNE) Rostock Germany
- Department of Neurology Berufsgenossenschaftliches Klinikum Hamburg Hamburg Germany
| | - Michael W Lutz
- Department of Neurology Duke University School of Medicine Durham North Carolina USA
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12
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Cummings J, Osse AML, Cammann D, Powell J, Chen J. Anti-Amyloid Monoclonal Antibodies for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease. BioDrugs 2024; 38:5-22. [PMID: 37955845 PMCID: PMC10789674 DOI: 10.1007/s40259-023-00633-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Two monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), aducanumab and lecanemab, have received accelerated approval from the US FDA for initiation of treatment in early Alzheimer's disease patients who have proven β-amyloid pathology (Aβ). One of these, lecanemab, has subsequently received full approval and other monoclonal antibodies are poised for positive review and approval. Anti-amyloid mAbs share the feature of producing a marked reduction in total brain Aβ revealed by amyloid positron emission tomography. Trials associated with slowing of cognitive decline have achieved a reduction in measurable plaque Aβ in the range of 15-25 centiloids; trials of agents that did not reach this threshold were not associated with cognitive benefit. mAbs have differences in terms of titration schedules, MRI monitoring schedules for amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), and continuing versus interrupted therapy. The approximate 30% slowing of decline observed with mAbs is clinically meaningful in terms of extended cognitive integrity and delay of onset of the more severe dementia phases of Alzheimer's disease. Approval of these agents initiates a new era in Alzheimer's disease therapeutics with disease-modifying properties. Further advances are needed, i.e. greater efficacy, improved safety, enhanced convenience, and better understanding of ill-understood observations such as brain volume loss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Cummings
- Department of Brain Health, Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA.
- Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA.
- , 1380 Opal Valley Street, Henderson, NV, 89052, USA.
| | - Amanda M Leisgang Osse
- Department of Brain Health, Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA
- Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Davis Cammann
- Nevada Institute of Personalized Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Jayde Powell
- Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, Las Vegas, NV, USA
| | - Jingchun Chen
- Nevada Institute of Personalized Medicine, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA
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Frederiksen KS, Morató X, Zetterberg H, Gauthier S, Boada M, Pytel V, Mattke S. Focusing on Earlier Management of Alzheimer Disease: Expert Opinion Based on a Modified Nominal Group Technique. Alzheimer Dis Assoc Disord 2024; 38:1-7. [PMID: 38300883 DOI: 10.1097/wad.0000000000000600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite the number of people living with Alzheimer disease (AD), awareness of the early stages of this condition, including mild cognitive impairment due to AD-which poses management challenges-continues to be low. To identify areas for improvement in early AD management, dementia specialists convened in a virtual roundtable meeting. METHODOLOGY A modified version of the nominal group technique was followed to prioritize specific topics and allow experts to provide their opinions. The overarching topics prioritized and discussed were (1) education and support for primary care physicians on cognitive assessment, detection of mild cognitive impairment, and patient monitoring; (2) nonpharmacological interventions; (3) and the introduction of disease-modifying therapies. CONCLUSIONS Consensus was achieved regarding the need for educating primary care physicians on identifying people with cognitive impairment and for better diagnostic tools for its detection and early management. Management of mild cognitive impairment due to AD should encompass an adequate follow-up schedule aiming to maintain function for as long as possible, and primary care physicians and patients should be aware of the benefits of nonpharmacological interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Steen Frederiksen
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Department of Neurology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Xavier Morató
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat International de Catalunya-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Henrik Zetterberg
- Department of Psychiatry and Neurochemistry, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Mölndal, Sweden
- Clinical Neurochemistry Laboratory, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Mölndal, Sweden
- Department of Neurodegenerative Disease, University College London Institute of Neurology, London, UK
- UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London, London, UK
- Hong Kong Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong
- Wisconsin Alzheimer's Disease Research Center, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI
| | - Serge Gauthier
- AD and Related Disorders Research Unit, McGill Center for Studies in Aging, Verdun, Quebec, Canada
- Departments of Neurology & Neurosurgery, Psychiatry, and Medicine at McGill, Montréal (Québec), Canada
| | - Mercè Boada
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat International de Catalunya-Barcelona, Spain
- Research Center on Neurodegenerative Diseases (CIBERNED), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Vanesa Pytel
- Ace Alzheimer Center Barcelona, Spain
- Universitat International de Catalunya-Barcelona, Spain
| | - Soeren Mattke
- Center for Improving Chronic Illness Care at the University of Southern California, San Diego, CA
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Dickson SP, Solomon A, Kivipelto M, Hartmann T, van Hees AMJ, Brownlee A, Haaland B, Mallinckrodt CH, Hendrix SB. Evaluation of Clinical Meaningfulness of Fortasyn Connect in Terms of "Time Saved". J Prev Alzheimers Dis 2024; 11:992-997. [PMID: 39044510 PMCID: PMC11266240 DOI: 10.14283/jpad.2024.55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024]
Abstract
Assessment of meaningfulness in randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) is challenging, particularly in early disease. Converting clinical outcomes to disease progression time allows assessment of treatment effects using a metric that is understandable and meaningful: time. We demonstrate time savings assessments using meta time component tests (TCTs) in the LipiDiDiet multinutrient RCT. Dietary patterns are important for dementia prevention, likely due to individual cumulative nutrient effects. LipiDiDiet used a multinutrient (Fortasyn Connect) formulation in patients with prodromal AD, benefitting cognition (5-item composite NTB, effect 0.089), cognition and function (CDR-SB, -0.605), and slowing hippocampal atrophy (0.122 cm3). Meaningfulness of point differences is unclear. However, a combination TCT showed 9-month disease time savings at 24 months (38% slowing of disease time): 9.0, 10.5, and 7.2 months for NTB, CDR-SB, and hippocampal volume, underscoring the value of TCTs in AD RCTs and the need for continued validation of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- S P Dickson
- Samuel Dickson, 2261 East 3300 South, Millcreek, UT 84109, Cell: 240-397-5211,
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15
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Goldberg TE, Lee S, Devanand DP, Schneider LS. Comparison of relative change with effect size metrics in Alzheimer's disease clinical trials. J Neurol Neurosurg Psychiatry 2023; 95:2-7. [PMID: 37979967 PMCID: PMC11299058 DOI: 10.1136/jnnp-2023-331941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Per cent slowing of decline is frequently used as a metric of outcome in Alzheimer's disease (AD) clinical trials, but it may be misleading. Our objective was to determine whether per cent slowing of decline or Cohen's d is the more valid and informative measure of efficacy. METHODS Outcome measures of interest were per cent slowing of decline; Cohen's d effect size and number-needed-to-treat (NNT). Data from a graphic were used to model the inter-relationships among Cohen's d, placebo decline in raw score units and per cent slowing of decline with active treatment. NNTs were computed based on different magnitudes of d. Last, we tabulated recent AD anti-amyloid clinical trials that reported per cent slowing and for which we computed their respective d's and NNTs. RESULTS We demonstrated that d and per cent slowing were potentially independent. While per cent slowing of decline was dependent on placebo decline and did not include variance in its computation, d was dependent on both group mean difference and pooled SD. We next showed that d was a critical determinant of NNT, such that NNT was uniformly smaller when d was larger. In recent AD associated trials including those focused on anti-amyloid biologics, d's were below 0.23 and thus considered small, while per cent slowing was in the 22-29% range and NNTs ranged from 14 to 18. CONCLUSIONS Standardised effect size is a more meaningful outcome than per cent slowing of decline because it determines group overlap, which can directly influence NNT computations, and yield information on the likelihood of minimum clinically important differences. In AD, greater use of effect sizes, NNTs, rather than relative per cent slowing, will improve the ability to interpret clinical trial results and evaluate the clinical meaningfulness of statistically significant results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terry E Goldberg
- Geriatric Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Seonjoo Lee
- Biostatistics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
- New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York, New York, USA
| | - Davangere P Devanand
- Geriatric Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Lon S Schneider
- Psychiatry and the Behavioral Sciences, USC Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA
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Iwatsubo T, Irizarry MC, Lewcock JW, Carrillo MC. Alzheimer's Targeted Treatments: Focus on Amyloid and Inflammation. J Neurosci 2023; 43:7894-7898. [PMID: 37968119 PMCID: PMC10669738 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1576-23.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the major cause of dementia that is now threatening the lives of billions of elderly people on the globe, and recent progress in the elucidation of the pathomechanism of AD is now opening venue to tackle the disease by developing and implementing "disease-modifying therapies" that directly act on the pathophysiology and slow down the progression of neurodegeneration. A recent example is the success of clinical trials of anti-amyloid b antibody drugs, whereas other therapeutic targets, e.g., inflammation and tau, are being actively investigated. In this dual perspective session, we plan to have speakers from leading pharmas in the field representing distinct investments in the AD space, which will be followed by the comment from scientific leadership of the Alzheimer's Association who will speak on behalf of all stakeholders. Neuroscientists participating in the Society for Neuroscience may be able to gain insights into the cutting edge of the therapeutic approaches to AD and neurodegenerative disorders, and discuss future contribution of neuroscience to this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Iwatsubo
- The University of Tokyo, Tokyo 113-0033, Japan
- National Center of Neurology and Psychiatry, Tokyo 187-8551, Japan
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17
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Ramanan VK, Armstrong MJ, Choudhury P, Coerver KA, Hamilton RH, Klein BC, Wolk DA, Wessels SR, Jones LK. Antiamyloid Monoclonal Antibody Therapy for Alzheimer Disease: Emerging Issues in Neurology. Neurology 2023; 101:842-852. [PMID: 37495380 PMCID: PMC10663011 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/28/2023] Open
Abstract
With recent data demonstrating that lecanemab treatment can slow cognitive and functional decline in early symptomatic Alzheimer disease (AD), it is widely anticipated that this drug and potentially other monoclonal antibody infusions targeting β-amyloid protein will imminently be realistic options for some patients with AD. Given that these new antiamyloid monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) are associated with nontrivial risks and burdens of treatment that are radically different from current mainstays of AD management, effectively and equitably translating their use to real-world clinical care will require systematic and practice-specific modifications to existing workflows and infrastructure. In this Emerging Issues in Neurology article, we provide practical guidance for a wide audience of neurology clinicians on logistic adaptations and decision making around emerging antiamyloid mAbs. Specifically, we briefly summarize the rationale and available evidence supporting antiamyloid mAb use in AD to facilitate appropriate communication with patients and care partners on potential benefits. We also discuss pragmatic approaches to optimizing patient selection and treatment monitoring, with a particular focus on the value of incorporating shared decision making and multidisciplinary collaboration. In addition, we review some of the recognized limitations of current knowledge and highlight areas of future evolution to guide the development of sustainable and flexible models for treatment and follow-up. As the field enters a new era with disease-modifying treatment options for AD, it will be critical for neurology practices to prepare and continually innovate to ensure optimal outcomes for patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Ramanan
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Melissa J Armstrong
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Parichita Choudhury
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Katherine A Coerver
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Roy H Hamilton
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Brad C Klein
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - David A Wolk
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Scott R Wessels
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
| | - Lyell K Jones
- From the Department of Neurology (V.K.R., L.K.J.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; Department of Neurology (M.J.A.), University of Florida College of Medicine; Norman Fixel Institute for Neurologic Diseases (M.J.A.), University of Florida, Gainesville; Cleo Roberts Center (P.C.), Banner Sun Health Research Institute, Sun City, AZ; Rocky Mountain Neurology (K.C.), Lone Tree, CO; Department of Neurology (R.H.H., D.A.W.), Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (R.H.H.), and Department of Psychiatry (R.H.H.), University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Abington Neurological Associates (B.C.K.), Ltd., Abington, PA; and American Academy of Neurology (S.R.W.), Minneapolis, MN
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Liu KY, Walsh S, Brayne C, Merrick R, Richard E, Howard R. Evaluation of clinical benefits of treatments for Alzheimer's disease. THE LANCET. HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2023; 4:e645-e651. [PMID: 37924845 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(23)00193-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The need for regulatory approval of new therapies for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease-a progressive neurodegenerative condition-has made the assessment of treatment efficacy an urgent priority for discussion and investigation in the field. In the first part of this Personal View, we summarise current views on what constitutes a clinically meaningful benefit from treatment for Alzheimer's disease, including the concept of a minimum treatment effect against which to compare trial outcomes and its limitations. Considering existing and divergent definitions of clinically meaningful change, we define this concept in the second part of the Personal View by proposing a new approach that consecutively considers whether a treatment benefit for Alzheimer's disease is noticeable, valuable, and worthwhile in the context of costs and risks. This approach could be a useful foundation from which the field can move forwards on this issue and address existing gaps in understanding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Y Liu
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK.
| | - Sebastian Walsh
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Carol Brayne
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Richard Merrick
- Cambridge Public Health, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Edo Richard
- Department of Neurology, Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands; Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
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19
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Sin MK, Zamrini E, Ahmed A, Nho K, Hajjar I. Anti-Amyloid Therapy, AD, and ARIA: Untangling the Role of CAA. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6792. [PMID: 37959255 PMCID: PMC10647766 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216792] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Anti-amyloid therapies (AATs), such as anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies, are emerging treatments for people with early Alzheimer's disease (AD). AATs target amyloid β plaques in the brain. Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), abnormal signals seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain in patients with AD, may occur spontaneously but occur more frequently as side effects of AATs. Cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA) is a major risk factor for ARIA. Amyloid β plays a key role in the pathogenesis of AD and of CAA. Amyloid β accumulation in the brain parenchyma as plaques is a pathological hallmark of AD, whereas amyloid β accumulation in cerebral vessels leads to CAA. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of ARIA is necessary for early detection of those at highest risk. This could lead to improved risk stratification and the ultimate reduction of symptomatic ARIA. Histopathological confirmation of CAA by brain biopsy or autopsy is the gold standard but is not clinically feasible. MRI is an available in vivo tool for detecting CAA. Cerebrospinal fluid amyloid β level testing and amyloid PET imaging are available but do not offer specificity for CAA vs amyloid plaques in AD. Thus, developing and testing biomarkers as reliable and sensitive screening tools for the presence and severity of CAA is a priority to minimize ARIA complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mo-Kyung Sin
- College of Nursing, Seattle University, Seattle, WA 98122, USA
| | | | - Ali Ahmed
- VA Medical Center, Washington, DC 20242, USA;
| | - Kwangsik Nho
- School of Medicine, Indianna University, Indianapolis, IN 46202, USA;
| | - Ihab Hajjar
- School of Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern, Dallas, TX 75390, USA;
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20
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Knopman DS, Hershey L. Implications of the Approval of Lecanemab for Alzheimer Disease Patient Care: Incremental Step or Paradigm Shift? Neurology 2023; 101:610-620. [PMID: 37295957 PMCID: PMC10573150 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000207438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The amyloid cascade model of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer disease (AD) is well supported in observational studies. Its therapeutic corollary asserts that removal of amyloid-β peptide ("amyloid") would provide clinical benefits. After 2 decades of pursuing the strategy of amyloid removal without success, clinical trials of the antiamyloid monoclonal antibody (AAMA) donanemab and a phase 3 clinical trial of lecanemab have reported clinical benefits linked to amyloid removal. Lecanemab (trade name, Leqembi) is the first with published phase 3 trial results. When administered through IV every 2 weeks to patients with elevated brain amyloid and mild cognitive impairment or mild dementia, lecanemab delayed cognitive and functional worsening by approximately 5 months in an 18-month double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The trial was well conducted, and the results favoring lecanemab were internally consistent. The demonstration that lecanemab treatment delayed clinical progression in persons with mild symptoms due to AD is a major conceptual achievement, but a better appreciation of the magnitude and durability of benefits for individual patients will require extended observations from clinical practice settings. Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) that were largely asymptomatic occurred in approximately 20%, slightly more than half of which were attributable to treatment and the rest to underlying AD-related amyloid angiopathy. Persons who were homozygous for the APOE ε4 allele had greater ARIA risks. Hemorrhagic complications with longer-term lecanemab use need to be better understood. Administration of lecanemab will place unprecedented pressures on dementia care personnel and infrastructure, both of which need to grow exponentially to meet the challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Knopman
- From the Department of Neurology (D.S.K.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Department of Neurology (L.H.), University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.
| | - Linda Hershey
- From the Department of Neurology (D.S.K.), Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN; and Department of Neurology (L.H.), University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center
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21
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Moreno M, Kline CR, Lanigan K, Kallmyer B, Clifford K, Fazio S. Personal meaningfulness of potential FDA-approved treatments: Perspectives of individuals living with Alzheimer's disease. Alzheimers Dement 2023; 19:4753-4755. [PMID: 37057808 DOI: 10.1002/alz.13079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/11/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
With the emergence of new clinical trial data on disease-modifying therapies in several. Alzheimer's disease (AD) studies, the Alzheimer's Association convened individuals living with AD to gain their perspective on meaningfulness and new treatments. A total of 30 Alzheimer's Association National Early Stage Advisory Group members participated in a focus group or an online survey to gain insights on what is wanted from a first-in-class treatment that could stop the progression of their disease at the earliest stage. Participants felt that researchers and regulators need to consider personal meaningfulness alongside clinical meaningfulness. At the same time, individuals living with AD felt that access, education, choice, and affordability were all important considerations moving forward.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Sam Fazio
- Alzheimer's Association, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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22
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Høilund-Carlsen PF, Revheim ME, Costa T, Alavi A, Kepp KP, Sensi SL, Perry G, Robakis NK, Barrio JR, Vissel B. Passive Alzheimer's immunotherapy: A promising or uncertain option? Ageing Res Rev 2023; 90:101996. [PMID: 37414156 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2023.101996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/08/2023]
Abstract
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)'s recent accelerated approval of two anti-amyloid antibodies for treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD), aducanumab and lecanemab, has caused substantial debate. To inform this debate, we reviewed the literature on randomized clinical trials conducted with eight such antibodies focusing on clinical efficacy, cerebral amyloid removal, amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIAs) and cerebral volumes to the extent such measurements have been reported. Two antibodies, donanemab and lecanemab, have demonstrated clinical efficacy, but these results remain uncertain. We further argue that the decreased amyloid PET signal in these trials is unlikely to be a one-to-one reflection of amyloid removal, but rather a reflection of increased therapy-related brain damage, as supported by the increased incidence of ARIAs and reported loss of brain volume. Due to these uncertainties of benefit and risk, we recommend that the FDA pauses existing approvals and approval of new antibodies until results of phase 4 studies with these drugs are available to inform on these risk-benefit uncertainties. We recommend that the FDA prioritize FDG PET and detection of ARIAs and accelerated brain volume loss with MRI in all trial patients, and neuropathological examination of all patients who die in these phase 4 trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Poul F Høilund-Carlsen
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
| | - Mona-Elisabeth Revheim
- The Intervention Centre, Division of Technology and Innovation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Tommaso Costa
- GCS-fMRI, Koelliker Hospital and Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy; FOCUS Lab, Department of Psychology, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Abass Alavi
- Department of Radiology, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Kasper P Kepp
- Section of Biophysical and Biomedicinal Chemistry, DTU Chemistry, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens, Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Stefano L Sensi
- Department of Neurosciences, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy; CAST-Center for Advanced Studies and Technology, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy; Institute for Mind Impairments and Neurological Disorders-iMIND, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; ITAB-Institute of Advanced Biomedical Technology, "G. d'Annunzio" University of Chieti-Pescara, Chieti, Italy
| | - George Perry
- Department of Neuroscience, Developmental and Regenerative Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Nikolaos K Robakis
- Center for Molecular Biology and Genetics of Neurodegeneration, Departments of Psychiatry and Neuroscience, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jorge R Barrio
- Department of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen UCLA School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Bryce Vissel
- School of Clinical Medicine, UNSW Medicine & Health, St Vincent's Healthcare Clinical Campus Faculty of Medicine and Health, UNSW, Sydney, Australia; St Vincent's Hospital Centre for Applied Medical Research, St Vincent's Hospital Sydney, Darlinghurst, NSW, Australia
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23
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Igarashi A, Azuma MK, Zhang Q, Ye W, Sardesai A, Folse H, Chavan A, Tomita K, Tahami Monfared AA. Predicting the Societal Value of Lecanemab in Early Alzheimer's Disease in Japan: A Patient-Level Simulation. Neurol Ther 2023; 12:1133-1157. [PMID: 37188886 PMCID: PMC10310671 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-023-00492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 04/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder that progresses from mild cognitive impairment (MCI) to dementia, is responsible for significant burden on caregivers and healthcare systems. In this study, data from the large phase III CLARITY AD trial were used to estimate the societal value of lecanemab plus standard of care (SoC) versus SoC alone against a range of willingness-to-pay (WTP) thresholds from a healthcare and societal perspective in Japan. METHODS A disease simulation model was used to evaluate the impact of lecanemab on disease progression in early AD based on data from the phase III CLARITY AD trial and published literature. The model used a series of predictive risk equations based on clinical and biomarker data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative and Assessment of Health Economics in Alzheimer's Disease II study. The model predicted key patient outcomes, including life years (LYs), quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and total healthcare and informal costs of patients and caregivers. RESULTS Over a lifetime horizon, patients treated with lecanemab plus SoC gained an additional 0.73 LYs compared with SoC alone (8.50 years vs. 7.77 years). Lecanemab, with an average treatment duration of 3.68 years, was found to be associated with a 0.91 increase in patient QALYs and a total increase of 0.96 when accounting for caregiver utility. The estimated value of lecanemab varied according to the WTP thresholds (JPY 5-15 million per QALY gained) and the perspective employed. From the narrow healthcare payer's perspective, it ranged from JPY 1,331,305 to JPY 3,939,399. From the broader healthcare payer's perspective, it ranged from JPY 1,636,827 to JPY 4,249,702, while from the societal perspective, it ranged from JPY 1,938,740 to JPY 4,675,818. CONCLUSION The use of lecanemab plus SoC would improve health and humanistic outcomes with reduced economic burden for patients and caregivers with early AD in Japan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ataru Igarashi
- Department of Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
- Department of Public Health, Yokohama City University School of Medicine, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Mie Kasai Azuma
- Medical Headquarter, Clinical Planning and Development, Eisai Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Quanwu Zhang
- Global Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Health, Eisai Inc., 200 Metro Blvd., Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA
| | - Weicheng Ye
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera Inc., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Aditya Sardesai
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera Inc., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Henri Folse
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera Inc., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | - Ameya Chavan
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera Inc., Bethesda, MD, 20814, USA
| | | | - Amir Abbas Tahami Monfared
- Global Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Health, Eisai Inc., 200 Metro Blvd., Nutley, NJ, 07110, USA.
- Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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24
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Cummings J. Meaningful benefit and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) in Alzheimer's disease: Open peer commentary. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2023; 9:e12411. [PMID: 37521521 PMCID: PMC10372384 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/01/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Approval of the anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies has stimulated an important discussion of the value to be placed on the magnitude of slowing achieved by treatment compared to placebo. Methods The minimal clinically important difference (MCID) was reviewed in the context of other measures and analyses that provide perspective on the meaningfulness of treatment responses. Results TheMCID is a clinician-anchored approach to making this determination. The MCID applies best to symptomatic therapies for which the drug-placebo difference remains constant. Disease-modifying therapies produce a progressive divergence of drug and placebo trajectories; early in the course the MCID would not be achieved, later the MCID will be achieved, and with continuing therapy the MCID will be exceeded. Clinicians are not the only stakeholders involved in determining the value proposition of slowing disease progression. Patient-reported outcomes and caregiver-related measures offer important complementary insights. Analytic approaches also widen the perspective on the observed drug-placebo differences. Risk ratios, numbers needed to treat versus number needed to harm, time-to-event analyses, and predictive benefits based on biomarkers all add depth to the discussion. Discussion Multiple stakeholder perspectives are needed to determine the importance to be attributed to the therapeutic changes observed with monoclonal antibody therapies and other emerging treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Cummings
- Chambers‐Grundy Center for Transformative NeuroscienceDepartment of Brain HealthSchool of Integrated Health SciencesUniversity of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV)Las VegasNevadaUSA
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25
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Salemme S, Ancidoni A, Locuratolo N, Piscopo P, Lacorte E, Canevelli M, Vanacore N. Advances in amyloid-targeting monoclonal antibodies for Alzheimer's disease: clinical and public health issues. Expert Rev Neurother 2023; 23:1113-1129. [PMID: 37975226 DOI: 10.1080/14737175.2023.2284305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a major global public health challenge. To date, no treatments have been shown to stop the underlying pathological processes. The cerebral accumulation of amyloid-beta (Ab) is still considered as the primum movens of AD and disease-modifying treatments targeting Ab are reaching - or have already reached - clinical practice. AREAS COVERED The authors explore the main advancements from Aβ-targeting monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for the treatment of AD. From a public health perspective, they address ethically relevant issues such as the benevolence and non-maleficence principles. They report on the potential biological and clinical benefits of these drugs, discussing minimal clinically important differences (MCID) and other relevant outcomes. They examine the short- and long-term effects of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), and explore the differences between eligibility criteria in clinical trials, appropriate use recommendations, and prescribing information content. In doing so, they contextualize the discussion on the disagreements among different regulatory authorities. EXPERT OPINION Although anti-β-amyloid monoclonal antibodies may be effective in selected scenarios, non-negligible knowledge gaps and implementation limits persist. Overcoming these gaps can no longer be postponed if we are to ensure the principles of Quality of Care for patients with cognitive impairment who would be eligible for this class of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simone Salemme
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic, and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - Antonio Ancidoni
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Locuratolo
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Piscopo
- Department of Neuroscience, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Eleonora Lacorte
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
| | - Marco Canevelli
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
- Department of Human Neuroscience, "Sapienza" University, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicola Vanacore
- National Centre for Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Italian National Institute of Health, Rome, Italy
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26
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Ramanan VK, Day GS. Anti-amyloid therapies for Alzheimer disease: finally, good news for patients. Mol Neurodegener 2023; 18:42. [PMID: 37381015 DOI: 10.1186/s13024-023-00637-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay K Ramanan
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, 55905, USA
| | - Gregory S Day
- Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, 4500 San Pablo Road S, Jacksonville, FL, 32224, USA.
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27
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Liu KY, Villain N, Ayton S, Ackley SF, Planche V, Howard R, Thambisetty M. Key questions for the evaluation of anti-amyloid immunotherapies for Alzheimer's disease. Brain Commun 2023; 5:fcad175. [PMID: 37389302 PMCID: PMC10306158 DOI: 10.1093/braincomms/fcad175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical benefit associated with anti-amyloid immunotherapies, a new class of drugs for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease, is predicated on their ability to modify disease course by lowering brain amyloid levels. At the time of writing, two amyloid-lowering antibodies, aducanumab and lecanemab, have obtained United States Food and Drug Administration accelerated approval, with further agents of this class in the Alzheimer's disease treatment pipeline. Based on limited published clinical trial data to date, regulators, payors and physicians will need to assess their efficacy, clinical effectiveness and safety, as well as cost and accessibility. We propose that attention to three important questions related to treatment efficacy, clinical effectiveness and safety should guide evidence-based consideration of this important class of drugs. These are: (1) Were trial statistical analyses appropriate and did they convincingly support claims of efficacy? (2) Do reported treatment effects outweigh safety concerns and are they generalizable to a representative clinical population of people with Alzheimer's disease? and (3) Do the data convincingly demonstrate disease course modification, suggesting that increasing clinical benefits beyond the duration of the trials are likely? We suggest specific approaches to interpreting trial results for these drugs and highlight important areas of uncertainty where additional data and a cautious interpretation of existing results is warranted. Safe, effective and accessible treatments for Alzheimer's disease are eagerly awaited by millions of patients and their caregivers worldwide. While amyloid-targeting immunotherapies may be promising disease-modifying Alzheimer's disease treatments, rigorous and unbiased assessment of clinical trial data is critical to regulatory decision-making and subsequently determining their provision and utility in routine clinical practice. Our recommendations provide a framework for evidence-based appraisal of these drugs by regulators, payors, physicians and patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathy Y Liu
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Nicolas Villain
- AP-HP.Sorbonne Université, Institut de la Mémoire et de la Maladie d’Alzheimer, Département de Neurologie, Hôpital Pitié-Salpêtrière, 75013 Paris, France
- Sorbonne Université, Institut national de la Santé et de la Recherche Medical (INSERM) U1127, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) 7225, Institut du Cerveau—ICM, 75013 Paris, France
| | - Scott Ayton
- Melbourne Dementia Research Centre, Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - Sarah F Ackley
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94158, USA
| | - Vincent Planche
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, UMR 5293, Institut des Maladies Neurodégénératives, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
- Centre Mémoire Ressources Recherches, Pôle de Neurosciences Cliniques, CHU de Bordeaux, F-33000 Bordeaux, France
| | - Robert Howard
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London W1T 7NF, UK
| | - Madhav Thambisetty
- Clinical and Translational Neuroscience Unit, Laboratory of Behavioral Neuroscience, National Institute on Aging, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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28
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Cummings J. Anti-Amyloid Monoclonal Antibodies are Transformative Treatments that Redefine Alzheimer's Disease Therapeutics. Drugs 2023; 83:569-576. [PMID: 37060386 PMCID: PMC10195708 DOI: 10.1007/s40265-023-01858-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/05/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Two anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies (MABs)-lecanemab (Leqembi®) and aducanumab (Aduhelm®)-have been approved in the USA for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Anti-amyloid monoclonal antibodies are the first disease-modifying therapies for AD that achieve slowing of clinical decline by intervening in the basic biological processes of the disease. These are breakthrough agents that can slow the inevitable progression of AD into more severe cognitive impairment. The results of trials of anti-amyloid MABs support the amyloid hypothesis and amyloid as a target for AD drug development. The success of MABs reflects a relentless application of neuroscience knowledge to solving major challenges facing humankind. The success of these transformative agents will foster the development of more anti-amyloid MABs, other types of anti-amyloid therapies, treatments of other targets of AD biology, and new approaches to therapies for an array of neurodegenerative disorders. Monoclonal antibodies have side effects and, during the period of treatment initiation, patients must be closely monitored for the occurrence of amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA) and infusion reactions. A successful first step in the development of disease-modifying therapy for AD defines desirable features for the next phase of therapeutic development including less frequent ARIA, more convenient administration, and greater efficacy. Unprecedented agents make new demands on patients and care partners, clinicians, payers, and health care systems. Collaboration among stakeholders is essential to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits offered by these agents and to make them widely available. Monoclonal antibodies usher in a new era in AD therapy and define a new landscape of what is possible for therapeutic development for neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey Cummings
- Joy Chambers-Grundy Professor of Brain Science, Chambers-Grundy Center for Transformative Neuroscience, Pam Quirk Brain Health and Biomarker Laboratory, Department of Brain Health, School of Integrated Health Sciences, University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), Las Vegas, NV, USA.
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29
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Affiliation(s)
- Nunzio Pomara
- Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psychiatric Research, Orangeburg, NY
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30
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Van Dyck CH, O'Dell RS, Mecca AP. Disease severity and minimal clinically important differences in clinical outcome assessments for Alzheimer's disease clinical trials. ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2023; 9:e12388. [PMID: 37187779 PMCID: PMC10175943 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2023] [Accepted: 03/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Christopher H. Van Dyck
- Department of PsychiatryAlzheimer's Disease Research Unit, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Ryan S. O'Dell
- Department of PsychiatryAlzheimer's Disease Research Unit, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
| | - Adam P. Mecca
- Department of PsychiatryAlzheimer's Disease Research Unit, Yale School of MedicineNew HavenConnecticutUSA
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31
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Andrews JS, Desai U, Kirson NY, Matthews BR. Response to van Dyck, O'Dell, & Mecca letter to the editor regarding Andrews et al. (2019). ALZHEIMER'S & DEMENTIA (NEW YORK, N. Y.) 2023; 9:e12387. [PMID: 37206624 PMCID: PMC10189864 DOI: 10.1002/trc2.12387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Urvi Desai
- Analysis GroupInc.BostonMassachusettsUSA
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