James Fontanesi
Radiation therapy has been used in the treatment of various non CNS amyloidosis. In peer reviewed article for sites such as lung , trachea , head and neck and renal , the use of low dose radiation has provided early and durable resolution of the amyloid related symptoms Our initial investigation of this potential began after we completed a review of adults who suffered from Downs Syndrome and who also had been diagnosed with ALL and had received PCI. We were unable to find any death certificate indicating AD as a cause of death although it is well known that up to 90% develop AD by time they reach 45 years Based on these facts we initiated a series of investigations, both basic science and animal studies to determine if low dose radiation might play a role in the treatment of AD We investigated amyloid plaque burden, Tau pathology development and neurocognitive testing. These results will be presented at this meeting The positive results we found has led us to the start of a Ph1 clinical trial that will initially evaluate 2 radiation dose sequences ( 5 x 200 cGy and 10 x 200 cGy ) to determine any side effects but also to define with Amyvid PET scans and neurocognitive testing the impact of this treatment. We will also present our idea’s regarding future studies including hypofractionated radiation regimens and targeted therapy
