Treatment Studies
Study of Tolcapone for Frontotemporal Dementia
This study will test if a medication called tolcapone (Tasmar) can improve the symptoms of frontotemporal dementia (FTD). It will also test the utility of a type of brain scan called fMRI for detecting changes that occur in the brain when a medication reduces symptoms and the effect of a common genetic variant on the symptoms of FTD. Men and women who have been diagnosed with FTD and are 40 to 85 years old may be eligible to participate. For more information, please call Masood Manoochehri at 973-843-6706 or mm2626@columbia.edu.
Antidepressant Treatment Studies for Combined Depression and Memory Complaints
We are conducting medication treatment research studies for individuals age 50+ with both depression and mild memory and/or concentration difficulties. The studies offer neuropsychological testing for memory and psychiatric evaluation of mood. Treatment is provided for eligible individuals at no cost for at least 6 months. For more information, please contact Amma Baker at 212-543-5067.
Treatment Study for Agitation and/or Aggression in Alzheimer's Disease
This is a research study, funded by the NIH, for people ages 50-99 who have Alzheimer's Disease and also have symptoms of agitation and/or aggression. The study includes medical evaluation by physicians who specialize in memory disorders and treatment with medication. Each eligible participant must have a family member or caregiver who can provide information during the research study. Please call Sarah Farkas at 212-543- 6132 for more information.
Other Studies
Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
The purpose of this study is to determine if brain imaging can help predict the onset and monitor the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The study will also use lumbar punctures and blood draws to determine if biomarkers can predict and monitor the disease. English and Spanish speaking eople with memory complaints who are in good general health and between the ages of 55 and 90 may be eligible to participate. Please contact Philip Yeung at (212) 342-0522 for more information.
Brain Imaging Study Measuring Changes in Cerebral Blood Flow and Cognition with Age
We are seeking healthy individuals and people with memory complaints or with Alzheimer's disease, age 55 to 85, to participate in a research study using Arterial Spin Labeling (ASL), a technique that uses MRI to measure cerebral blood flow in the brain. The study consists of three visits and includes an MRI and memory testing, and participants will be compensated. Please contact at 212-305-7846 for more information.
Memory and Self Awareness Study
This is a study about how people evaluate their own memory abilities, and how self-awareness influences important issues such as everyday decision making and quality of life. Individuals with mild AD are eligible to participate and will be compensated. Please contact Dr. Stephanie Cosentino
at (212) 342-0289 for more information.
African American Genetics Study
This study for people over the age of 60 looks at genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease among African Americans. The study involves an interview to include memory and thinking tests, questions about your health and experiences, and a blood draw. For more information, call Josina Hector at 212-305-1893.
Genetic Linkage Study
We are seeking families of all nationalities and backgrounds for a study that seeks to identify genes that may increase the risk for developing Alzheimer's disease (AD). If your family has at least two living siblings diagnosed with AD who are 60 years old or older, please call Dolly Reyes at 212-305-5953.
Predictors Study
This research study is for people who are 55 to 90 years old who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and/or Dementia with Lewy Bodies. Participation includes initial medical evaluation and testing to assess memory and cognitive functions. This longitudinal study requires biannual visits which include memory testing and answering questions about daily activities. For more information, please call 212-305-1987.
Memory Problems II: Course and Predictors of Outcome
This research study for people with and without memory complaints who are 55 to 90 years old includes medical evaluation by physicians who specialize in memory disorders, and testing to assess memory and intellectual functions. Visits and monitoring will take place annually for 7 years. At the initial visit only, an MRI scan, two PET scans and a lumbar puncture will be performed. Participants will receive reimbursement. For more information, please call 212-543-5025.
