Here Comes a Whole New Approach to Battling Alzheimer's, and New Jersey Will Play a Lead Role

Princeton Medical Institute is the first study site in the United States to participate in a clinical trial for a new drug designed to slow cognitive decline and restore memory in individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer's, reports NJ.com . The compound is an epigenetic drug, which focuses on altering genes to reverse disease symptoms. The Institute is currently seeking adults in New Jersey between the ages of 50 and 85 who might qualify for the study, which will test both the safety and effectiveness of the medication. The drug is designed to enable certain genes to better shield against Alzheimer's, reducing inflammation and boosting neural pathways. The drug is being developed by Spain-based Oryzon. "We feel this is something very special," says Princeton Medical Institute founder Jeffrey Apter. "The early Phase I data is very positive." The Phase II clinical trial entails having 150 participants take the drug orally for 24 weeks.