LAUNCHING A CLINICAL
TRIALS UNIT
Clinical trials are an essential step in developing
effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease and
related dementias and advancing our knowledge
about these neurodegenerative disorders.
Baycrest's CTU was created to respond to a growing
need to explore and test new therapies to prevent
and treat dementia. The CTU, led by Dr. Howard
Chertkow, Chair in Cognitive Neurology and
Innovation and RRI Senior Scientist, is unique as it
will offer clients access to emerging treatments to
potentially treat dementia, as well as interventions
focused on its prevention. Individuals who are 50+
years and older may qualify to participate in a
Baycrest clinical trial.
The CTU offers a variety of research interventions,
which may include, but are not limited to:
• Drug therapies
• Dietary advice
• Sensory, cognitive, and exercise training
• Non-invasive and safe electrical brain stimulation
• Meditation
• Light therapy
• Other non-pharmacological approaches to boost
brain function
All studies offered through the Clinical Trials Unit are
first reviewed and approved by the Baycrest Research
Ethics Board to ensure that they meet current ethical
standards.
Through a partnership with Baycrest staff, local
family doctors and specialists, the CTU welcomes
members of the public to participate in studies that
provide hope and potential solutions to individuals
with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias and
their loved ones.
2018–2019 YEAR IN REVIEW 13
