Winter 2025 Newsletter

In This Issue:

• Note from Director(s)
• Inspiring the Next Generation of Neuroscientists
• New Addition to the Easton Center
• Clinical Trials
• Upcoming Events

The Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Care at UCLA has very active teams working on basic research, drug discovery, biomarkers for early diagnosis and clinical activity including clinical trials, cognitive testing, and patient care.

Note from Director(s)

By: Jason Hinman, MD, PhD, Co-Center Director, Mary S. Easton Center for Alzheimer’s Research and Care at UCLA, Department of Neurology

The past year has brought remarkable progress in dementia research and treatment, alongside some challenges. At UCLA, we have reached significant milestones, including the launch of our UCLA Amyloid Immunotherapy Care (AIC) Program. This innovative clinical initiative represents a turning point in Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) treatment, making experimental therapies a reality. In collaboration with five other UC Health campuses across California, Easton Center faculty have established shared clinical guidelines to ensure the safe and responsible use of these groundbreaking medications.

A major achievement of the AIC Program was the treatment of our first patient in May 2024. Since then, we have made two pioneering AD treatments—lecanemab and donanemab—available to eligible patients. As we work to expand access to these therapies and intervene before dementia symptoms become irreversible, we also recognize the limitations of these medications. Yet, the field is not slowing down. Beyond amyloid-targeting treatments, new therapeutic approaches are advancing to the final stages of clinical testing. The dedication of our faculty, staff, and nursing teams within the AIC is driving the creation of a streamlined care pipeline, ensuring that future innovations reach patients faster.

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