Investigator Updates

CADRC Investigator Updates

CADRC Investigator Updates & Research Highlights

Stay up to date on research led by CADRC investigators and our partner institutions. Below you’ll find news features, scientific breakthroughs, podcasts, and community stories that highlight ongoing efforts to better understand, diagnose, and treat Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Diagnosis & Biomarkers

In this video, neurologist Dr. Brian Appleby explains why diagnosing dementia can be challenging. He discusses how dementia is an umbrella term covering many different brain conditions, making it hard to pinpoint a precise type. Variability in symptoms, overlap between conditions, and limitations of diagnostic tests all contribute to the difficulty in diagnosis. The video highlights what information and tests can help clinicians improve diagnostic accuracy.
Watch video

Women make up nearly two-thirds of people with Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the need for sex-specific biomarkers. Cleveland Clinic researcher Lynn Bekris, PhD, is studying blood-based proteins in women to identify markers tied to Alzheimer’s pathology, including amyloid, tau, and immune-related proteins like TREM2. Early findings show striking differences between men and women in biomarker patterns, which could lead to better early detection and more tailored clinical care for women.
Listen to podcast

Nearly two-thirds of people with Alzheimer’s are women, prompting research into sex-specific blood biomarkers to improve early detection and care. Dr. Lynn Bekris and her team are measuring thousands of plasma proteins to find those linked to Alzheimer’s pathology—especially amyloid, tau, and immune-related markers like TREM2—in women. Early results show distinct biomarker patterns in women versus men, which could lead to more tailored diagnostics and clinical care.
Read article

Blood-based biomarkers are an emerging and promising tool for Alzheimer’s disease, offering a more accessible and affordable way to detect early biological signs—possibly years before symptoms appear. Because current diagnostic methods can be complex, costly, or invasive, a validated blood test could greatly improve screening, help distinguish Alzheimer’s from reversible conditions, and support earlier intervention as new treatments become available.
Read article

Cleveland Clinic researchers used a novel data-driven method to identify sildenafil (Viagra) as a promising Alzheimer’s drug candidate. In a study of 7 million patients, sildenafil users were 69% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Lab models also showed it improved neuron function. The team is now planning clinical trials to test its therapeutic potential.
Read article

A $5.5 million NIH grant is supporting Case Western Reserve researchers as they develop new, easier diagnostic tests for dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia. Using RT-QuIC technology to detect abnormal alpha-synuclein in tissues like skin, nasal swabs, and colon biopsies, the team aims to enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis and better tracking of disease progression—ultimately improving care and paving the way for future treatments.
Read article

Diagnosis & Biomarkers

In this video, neurologist Dr. Brian Appleby explains why diagnosing dementia can be challenging. He discusses how dementia is an umbrella term covering many different brain conditions, making it hard to pinpoint a precise type. Variability in symptoms, overlap between conditions, and limitations of diagnostic tests all contribute to the difficulty in diagnosis. The video highlights what information and tests can help clinicians improve diagnostic accuracy.
Watch video

Women make up nearly two-thirds of people with Alzheimer’s disease, highlighting the need for sex-specific biomarkers. Cleveland Clinic researcher Lynn Bekris, PhD, is studying blood-based proteins in women to identify markers tied to Alzheimer’s pathology, including amyloid, tau, and immune-related proteins like TREM2. Early findings show striking differences between men and women in biomarker patterns, which could lead to better early detection and more tailored clinical care for women.
Listen to podcast

Nearly two-thirds of people with Alzheimer’s are women, prompting research into sex-specific blood biomarkers to improve early detection and care. Dr. Lynn Bekris and her team are measuring thousands of plasma proteins to find those linked to Alzheimer’s pathology—especially amyloid, tau, and immune-related markers like TREM2—in women. Early results show distinct biomarker patterns in women versus men, which could lead to more tailored diagnostics and clinical care.
Read article

Blood-based biomarkers are an emerging and promising tool for Alzheimer’s disease, offering a more accessible and affordable way to detect early biological signs—possibly years before symptoms appear. Because current diagnostic methods can be complex, costly, or invasive, a validated blood test could greatly improve screening, help distinguish Alzheimer’s from reversible conditions, and support earlier intervention as new treatments become available.
Read article

Cleveland Clinic researchers used a novel data-driven method to identify sildenafil (Viagra) as a promising Alzheimer’s drug candidate. In a study of 7 million patients, sildenafil users were 69% less likely to develop Alzheimer’s. Lab models also showed it improved neuron function. The team is now planning clinical trials to test its therapeutic potential.
Read article

A $5.5 million NIH grant is supporting Case Western Reserve researchers as they develop new, easier diagnostic tests for dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia. Using RT-QuIC technology to detect abnormal alpha-synuclein in tissues like skin, nasal swabs, and colon biopsies, the team aims to enable earlier, more accurate diagnosis and better tracking of disease progression—ultimately improving care and paving the way for future treatments.
Read article

Lifestyle, Exercise & Prevention

A Cleveland Clinic clinical trial is testing whether high-intensity exercise can help prevent Alzheimer’s in adults ages 65–80 who carry the APOE ɛ4 genetic risk factor. Supported by a $6.7 million NIH grant, the CYCLE-AD study randomly assigns participants to an 18-month Peloton-based exercise program or a sedentary routine. Early evidence suggests regular exercise may slow Alzheimer’s-related changes in genetically at-risk adults. Researchers are also working to increase diversity in enrollment, as older Black adults face disproportionately higher risk.
Watch video & read article

A large review of 109 clinical trials found little solid evidence that exercise improves cognition in healthy adults, challenging long-held assumptions about its brain benefits. Researchers say many past studies were too small, short, or biased to show true effects. Cleveland Clinic neuroscientist Dr. Stephen Rao notes that while randomized trials are limited, long-term observational and animal studies still suggest exercise may help delay cognitive decline—especially in people at higher risk for Alzheimer’s. Experts agree better trials are needed, but emphasize that exercise remains valuable for overall health and may still support brain resilience over time.
Read article

A Consumer Reports feature highlights how lifestyle choices can help preserve—and even improve—brain health at any age. While Alzheimer’s remains incurable, evidence shows that managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol; treating hearing loss; getting quality sleep; reviewing medications; and addressing anxiety or depression all support cognitive well-being. Diet also matters: leafy greens, berries, fish, and plant-forward eating styles like the MIND diet are linked to slower cognitive decline. Exercise—especially aerobic activity, strength training, yoga, tai chi, and dance—boosts brain structure and function. Staying mentally active, socially engaged, and managing stress further strengthens cognitive resilience. Experts emphasize that small, consistent lifestyle habits can meaningfully reduce dementia risk and support sharper thinking over time.
Read article

Lifestyle, Exercise & Prevention

A Cleveland Clinic clinical trial is testing whether high-intensity exercise can help prevent Alzheimer’s in adults ages 65–80 who carry the APOE ɛ4 genetic risk factor. Supported by a $6.7 million NIH grant, the CYCLE-AD study randomly assigns participants to an 18-month Peloton-based exercise program or a sedentary routine. Early evidence suggests regular exercise may slow Alzheimer’s-related changes in genetically at-risk adults. Researchers are also working to increase diversity in enrollment, as older Black adults face disproportionately higher risk.
Watch video & read article

A large review of 109 clinical trials found little solid evidence that exercise improves cognition in healthy adults, challenging long-held assumptions about its brain benefits. Researchers say many past studies were too small, short, or biased to show true effects. Cleveland Clinic neuroscientist Dr. Stephen Rao notes that while randomized trials are limited, long-term observational and animal studies still suggest exercise may help delay cognitive decline—especially in people at higher risk for Alzheimer’s. Experts agree better trials are needed, but emphasize that exercise remains valuable for overall health and may still support brain resilience over time.
Read article

A Consumer Reports feature highlights how lifestyle choices can help preserve—and even improve—brain health at any age. While Alzheimer’s remains incurable, evidence shows that managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol; treating hearing loss; getting quality sleep; reviewing medications; and addressing anxiety or depression all support cognitive well-being. Diet also matters: leafy greens, berries, fish, and plant-forward eating styles like the MIND diet are linked to slower cognitive decline. Exercise—especially aerobic activity, strength training, yoga, tai chi, and dance—boosts brain structure and function. Staying mentally active, socially engaged, and managing stress further strengthens cognitive resilience. Experts emphasize that small, consistent lifestyle habits can meaningfully reduce dementia risk and support sharper thinking over time.
Read article

Treatments, Clinical Trials & Drug Development

Aducanumab (Aduhelm), the first Alzheimer’s drug approved since 2003, has generated both hope and controversy in Northeast Ohio. Some patients are willing to pay high costs despite uncertain benefits and significant risks. The FDA approved the drug based on its ability to reduce amyloid plaques—biomarkers of Alzheimer’s—rather than clear evidence it slows cognitive decline. Local experts, including Cleveland Clinic geriatrician Dr. Babak Tousi, say the drug may modestly slow progression in early-stage patients but is not a cure. With mixed clinical trial results, expert disagreement, and resignations from FDA advisors, physicians stress careful discussion of expectations, side effects, and cost before prescribing.
Read article

New research from Case Western Reserve suggests that an early signaling pathway—called the Drp1-HK1-NLRP3 axis—may drive some of the first changes seen in Alzheimer’s disease. In AD models, overactive Drp1 disrupts energy production in oligodendrocytes, triggering inflammation, white matter loss, and cognitive decline. When researchers reduced Drp1 activity, it prevented inflammasome activation, protected myelin, and improved memory in mice. The findings suggest that targeting Drp1 early in the disease process could offer a new therapeutic strategy to slow or prevent Alzheimer’s progression.
Read article

A new Cleveland Clinic clinical trial aims to prevent Alzheimer’s disease by treating people before symptoms begin. The study is enrolling adults ages 55–85 with no cognitive impairment but who may be at higher risk due to family history or personal concern. Participants will receive monoclonal antibody infusions over several years to determine whether early intervention can stop Alzheimer’s from developing. Researchers emphasize the need for diverse participation, as Black and Hispanic adults face significantly higher risk for the disease.
Read article

Treatments, Clinical Trials & Drug Development

Aducanumab (Aduhelm), the first Alzheimer’s drug approved since 2003, has generated both hope and controversy in Northeast Ohio. Some patients are willing to pay high costs despite uncertain benefits and significant risks. The FDA approved the drug based on its ability to reduce amyloid plaques—biomarkers of Alzheimer’s—rather than clear evidence it slows cognitive decline. Local experts, including Cleveland Clinic geriatrician Dr. Babak Tousi, say the drug may modestly slow progression in early-stage patients but is not a cure. With mixed clinical trial results, expert disagreement, and resignations from FDA advisors, physicians stress careful discussion of expectations, side effects, and cost before prescribing.
Read article

New research from Case Western Reserve suggests that an early signaling pathway—called the Drp1-HK1-NLRP3 axis—may drive some of the first changes seen in Alzheimer’s disease. In AD models, overactive Drp1 disrupts energy production in oligodendrocytes, triggering inflammation, white matter loss, and cognitive decline. When researchers reduced Drp1 activity, it prevented inflammasome activation, protected myelin, and improved memory in mice. The findings suggest that targeting Drp1 early in the disease process could offer a new therapeutic strategy to slow or prevent Alzheimer’s progression.
Read article

A new Cleveland Clinic clinical trial aims to prevent Alzheimer’s disease by treating people before symptoms begin. The study is enrolling adults ages 55–85 with no cognitive impairment but who may be at higher risk due to family history or personal concern. Participants will receive monoclonal antibody infusions over several years to determine whether early intervention can stop Alzheimer’s from developing. Researchers emphasize the need for diverse participation, as Black and Hispanic adults face significantly higher risk for the disease.
Read article

Barriers to Care & Community-Based Research

New research from Case Western Reserve University shows that strong friendships may help protect Black Americans from cognitive decline. In a national study of over 2,300 Black adults, social scientist Ann Nguyen found that those with robust friend networks had better cognitive health—an important insight given that Black Americans face higher rates of dementia, are diagnosed later, and often miss early-stage treatment opportunities. Nguyen’s work, shared with the Cleveland Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, highlights social connection as a modifiable, preventive factor that could reduce racial disparities in Alzheimer’s and dementia outcomes.
Read article

Black and Hispanic Americans face higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease but remain underrepresented in research. To change that, scientists at Case Western Reserve University are actively engaging local minority communities—meeting people where they are, including at Cleveland’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Researchers stress that large, diverse participation is crucial to understanding genetic differences and improving treatments. While mistrust of medical research remains a barrier, community outreach efforts are helping build connections, and individuals affected by dementia are increasingly willing to participate to support future breakthroughs.
Read article

Health Disparities & Community-Based Research

New research from Case Western Reserve University shows that strong friendships may help protect Black Americans from cognitive decline. In a national study of over 2,300 Black adults, social scientist Ann Nguyen found that those with robust friend networks had better cognitive health—an important insight given that Black Americans face higher rates of dementia, are diagnosed later, and often miss early-stage treatment opportunities. Nguyen’s work, shared with the Cleveland Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, highlights social connection as a modifiable, preventive factor that could reduce racial disparities in Alzheimer’s and dementia outcomes.
Read article

Black and Hispanic Americans face higher risk for Alzheimer’s disease but remain underrepresented in research. To change that, scientists at Case Western Reserve University are actively engaging local minority communities—meeting people where they are, including at Cleveland’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Researchers stress that large, diverse participation is crucial to understanding genetic differences and improving treatments. While mistrust of medical research remains a barrier, community outreach efforts are helping build connections, and individuals affected by dementia are increasingly willing to participate to support future breakthroughs.
Read article

Caregiving & Support Interventions

Case Western Reserve nursing professor Jaclene Zauszniewski has received a $2.6 million NIH grant to study stress-management strategies for caregivers of people with dementia. Building on her decades of work in mental health and self-management interventions, the project aims to support caregivers through key transitions in the dementia-care journey using accessible, technology-based tools.
Read article

Caregiving & Support Interventions

Case Western Reserve nursing professor Jaclene Zauszniewski has received a $2.6 million NIH grant to study stress-management strategies for caregivers of people with dementia. Building on her decades of work in mental health and self-management interventions, the project aims to support caregivers through key transitions in the dementia-care journey using accessible, technology-based tools.
Read article

Related Neurology & Brain Health Topics

Researchers identified a biochemical link between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer’s disease through a harmful process involving acetylation of the tau protein (ac-tau), which drives nerve cell degeneration in both conditions. In animal studies, blocking this process prevented axonal damage and cognitive decline after TBI. The team found that two existing FDA-approved drugs—salsalate and diflunisal—can inhibit tau acetylation and protect brain cells. Analysis of large patient datasets also showed lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease and TBI among people who had taken these medications. The findings suggest a promising new pathway for treating or preventing brain deterioration following injury, with human trials as a potential next step.

Read article

A Case Western Reserve nurse scientist is leading a $3.4 million, five-year study to help older African American adults better manage hypertension using digital tools like educational websites and smartphone apps. The project—OPTIMA-BP—aims to improve medication adherence, empower patients to advocate for their care, and reduce disparities in blood pressure control.
Read article

Related Neurology & Brain Health Topics

Researchers identified a biochemical link between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer’s disease through a harmful process involving acetylation of the tau protein (ac-tau), which drives nerve cell degeneration in both conditions. In animal studies, blocking this process prevented axonal damage and cognitive decline after TBI. The team found that two existing FDA-approved drugs—salsalate and diflunisal—can inhibit tau acetylation and protect brain cells. Analysis of large patient datasets also showed lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease and TBI among people who had taken these medications. The findings suggest a promising new pathway for treating or preventing brain deterioration following injury, with human trials as a potential next step.

Read article

A Case Western Reserve nurse scientist is leading a $3.4 million, five-year study to help older African American adults better manage hypertension using digital tools like educational websites and smartphone apps. The project—OPTIMA-BP—aims to improve medication adherence, empower patients to advocate for their care, and reduce disparities in blood pressure control.
Read article

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Get the Latest News & Research Updates with the Mind Matters Newsletter

Get the latest news, research updates, and community events from the Cleveland Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center.