Great Lakes Clinical Trials Supports License Plates for Alzheimer's Awareness

As you may be aware, November is National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month.  Great Lakes Clinical Trials is proud to join the Alzheimer's Association in promoting an exciting new initiative to raise awareness for Alzheimer's Disease.

Illinois is one of a few states that have passed a law authorizing a specialty #ENDALZ Alzheimer’s Association license plate. However, before the state will begin production, the law requires 1,500 reservations for the license plate be collected.

Currently, the Alzheimer’s Association has collected 1,434 reservations – 66 short of the 1,500 requirement.

What is so special about the Alzheimer’s Association’s #ENDALZ specialty license plate is that $23 of the $25 annual plate renewal fee is sent back to the Association to help fund care and support services for Illinois families affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

In an effort to get the remaining reservations the Alzheimer’s Association has waived the $10 reservation fee.

Will you reserve your plate right now by clicking here?

Illinois is about to become the first state in the country to have an #ENDALZ license plate. But time is running out. The reservations must be collected by the end of this year or the plate will not be issued.

Let’s help the Alzheimer’s Association obtain these reservations and in turn strengthen care and support programs for Illinoisans. 

Click HERE for more information and to reserve your plate today!

New Trial To Treat Alzheimer's Seen As "Game Changing"

This CBS News Article highlights a ground-breaking Alzheimer's prevention trial which is currently seeking volunteers at Great Lakes Clinical Trials.  For more information click here.   

"For the first time I think we have a chance to really change the course of Alzheimer's disease," says Dr. Reisa Sperling. She's leading a clinical trial testing whether a drug called Solanezumab can slow down or even prevent Alzheimer's disease. Wyatt Andrews reports.

BOSTON -- Helene DeCoste of Boston is a patient in a ground breaking clinical trial, testing whether a drug called Solanezumab can slow down or even prevent Alzheimer's disease. No drug has even come close before, but researchers have never tested patients quite like Helene in quite this way before.

"She is a perfect patient for this trial," said Dr. Reisa Sperling, a physician at Harvard University and the project director of what's called the A4 Study.

A4 is an ambitious, international trial in which 60 hospitals are looking for 1,000 patients like DeCoste. Dr. Sperling says they have to be patients who are not yet exhibiting signs of memory loss, but who also have brain scans suggesting they will get Alzheimer's in the future.

Specifically they have a buildup of what's called amyloid plaque, which doctors believe is what kills off brain cells. The hope in this trial is that the drug will destroy the amyloid before the amyloid destroys the brain.

Dr. Sperling says she's excited, calling this trial "game changing."

"For the first time I think we have a chance to really change the course of Alzheimer's disease," Dr. Sperling told me.

Still for the patients just being in this trial means you've been told you are likely to get this disease. Helene said she set herself up to expect the worst before getting the news.

"I'm going to do everything I can do to help myself put it off as long as I can," DeCoste told me.

Dr. Sperling and DeCoste did not know each other before, but they have the same personal reasons for fighting Alzheimer's. Dr. Sperling lost her grandfather to Alzheimer's; DeCoste has watched her sister who has the disease, and her mother, who died because of it, both suffer anguishing declines.

"I just couldn't deal," said DeCoste. "Your mother doesn't know who you are. My sister now has it and she's only six years older than I am. I used to say to my kids that if I get this disease, shoot me because it's horrible to watch someone go through it."

An important study released Tuesday from the Mayo Clinic identifies a different toxic protein called tau as the likely cause of Alzheimer's. Most researchers believe that tau and amyloid are connected and the A4 Study has now been expanded to track the buildup of both in the brains of these patients.

For information on how to volunteer for the A4 Study, call 844-A-4-STUDY or click here

By Wyatt Andrews CBS News March 24, 2015, 7:32 PM

Great Lakes Clinical Trials President Presents Keynote Address at Alzheimer's Conference

Steve Satek, Great Lakes Clinical Trials President had the honor of providing the keynote address at Alzheimer's Association's 25th Annual Conference for Professionals held on Tuesday, October 18, 2016 in Peoria, IL.  The presentation entitled, "What's New in Alzheimer's Research" was attended by over 200 health care professionals from throughout the Central Illinois region.

Great Lakes Clinical Trials' table at the Conference Resource Fair

The conference was held in conjunction with a Family Caregiver Conference, and highlighted by a special appreciation dinner for the family members and caregivers of patients suffering with Alzheimer's disease.  The event also featured an exhibit hall of various Alzheimer's disease providers from throughout Illinois.

"Our organization, Great Lakes Clinical Trials, and the Alzheimer's Association are well aligned with the vision of a world without Alzheimer's disease," comments Mr. Satek. "The only way we will ever have new and better medications to prevent, cure or slow down the disease is through the clinical trial process.  It is important to keep all healthcare professionals apprised of the developments in Alzheimer's research in order to properly educate patients of all types of care options, including research trials."

There is currently real hope for preventing or stopping the progression of memory loss.  There have been significant new medical advances in the development of treatments which target the source of memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.  The currently available prescription medications, over-the-counter remedies, and other therapies are only temporary, "band-aid" approaches that do not work for all people.

"The Alzheimer's Association is the nation's leading source of research funding for Alzheimer's disease," added Mr. Satek.  "I am proud to work alongside this group and as a member of the Greater Illinois Chapter Medical and Scientific Advisory Committee.  They have made significant strides in terms of educating the public of research opportunities, notably through their TrialMatch program.

Great Lakes Clinical Trials Presents Memory Research Program to Luther Village Seniors

Dean Hervochon, Co-Founder of Great Lakes Clinical Trials, meeting with a local senior

On October 10th, Great Lakes Clinical Trials participated in a senior fair on the Luther Village Independent Living campus, associated with the Lutheran Home of Arlington Heights.  Great Lakes Clinical Trials' Co-Founder, Dean Hervochon, met with dozens of seniors and their caregivers interested in issues surrounding memory care.

"We opened our research center on the campus of the Lutheran Home and Luther Village, in order to bring convenient access to cutting-edge research to these amazing seniors," commented Mr. Hervochon.  "New technology has brought significant hope to those affected by memory loss and our organization is committed to finding a cure to eliminate this disease altogether."

The event was attended by more than 250 seniors, many of whom have registered for free memory assessments as part of Great Lakes Clinical Trials' Memory Monday campaign.

Great Lakes Clinical Trials operates a clinical research unit within the Wellness Center of the Lutheran Home in Arlington Heights, Illinois.  The clinic is located approximately 15 miles northwest of O'Hare Airport and 30 miles northwest of downtown Chicago's "Loop".  The focus of this clinic is to provide clinical research services to a senior population, primarily in the areas of Alzheimer's disease and memory loss, pain disorders and rheumatology.

Lutheran Home has been setting the standard in senior living since 1892. A faithful mission and dedication to innovation has earned the trust of generations of families and solidified the reputation of Arlington Heights’ Lutheran Home as one of the nation’s finest senior living communities. Much has changed over the years, with enhanced programs and more specialized healthcare services, but one thing remains the same: Lutheran Home’s commitment to providing exceptional, person-centered care and exceeding expectations every day. A Lutheran Life Community, Lutheran Home is empowering vibrant, grace-filled living across all generations.

The location on this campus provides direct access to research for more than 1,300 residents at the Lutheran Home as well as Luther Village, a planned residential community for active people 55 years of age and older.

In addition, the clinic serves the greater northwest suburbs of Chicago, home to over 1 million residents.

Great Lakes Clinical Trials Kicks off "Memory Monday" Compaign

As part of our commitment to improving the health of our senior community, Great Lakes Clinical Trials is kicking off a new campaign called "Memory Monday".  Every Monday, Great Lakes Clinical Trials memory research team will be offering free memory assessments for adults 50 years and older.  These events will take place at Great Lakes Clinical Trials' offices in Chicago and Arlington Heights (at the Lutheran Home Wellness Center).  In addition, the team will be taking this campaign on the road to to various senior community centers and other meeting places. 

There is currently HOPE for preventing or stopping the progression of memory loss.  There have been significant new medical advances in the development of treatments which target the source of memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.  The currently available prescription medications, over-the-counter remedies, and other therapies are only temporary, "band-aid" approaches that do not work for all people. We are researching a cure and are looking for volunteers who are motivated to help make a difference.

The memory assessment lasts approximately one hour.  Results of the memory assessment will be used to determine if you pre-qualify for any one of our free research programs, though there is no obligation to join a trial.   We are currently enrolling volunteers who do not have any memory problems onto research programs to help develop a prevention for Alzheimer's disease. Other programs are underway for those individuals who are just starting to notice a greater number of memory lapses. We also have programs for those who have already been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.  

Call (773) 275-3500 to learn more about our Memory Monday program or click here to contact our staff and set up an appointment.  

“I DO IT FOR MY GRANDKIDS.”

Participation in Clinical Trials is the only way we will ever find a way to prevent or cure ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

Alzheimer’s disease is not just memory loss. It is a deadly disease that affects the structure of your brain. The disease can start 15-20 years before memory problems begin to show. Currently available medications and over-the-counter supplements only treat the memory-loss symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. They do not target the source of memory loss.

Recent advances in technology have given researchers the ability to target the source of Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, new innovative medications are currently being tested to potentially stop, slow down or cure Alzheimer’s disease.

There truly is hope for a prevention or cure.

Whether you have no signs of memory loss, or if you are just starting to experience memory problems that are affecting your daily activities, you may be able to participate in research.

Great Lakes Clinical Trials is currently recruiting volunteers for memory-related studies at our Chicago and Arlington Heights clinics. Our research is conducted by board-certified physicians and psychologists trained at Northwestern University, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s Medical Center University, and Johns Hopkins University. All research-related services are provided at no cost. In addition, qualified volunteers receive a stipend for their time and transportation services are provided.

Volunteers must be accompanied by a “Study Partner”—someone who can provide detailed information about your activities and your memory. You also must be able and willing to have brain imaging, such as an MRI or PET scan.

If you are currently being seen by a physician, you remain under their care. We will collaborate with your physician to ensure you receive the most thorough medical care.

Call 773-275-3500 to see if you qualify,

or click here to sign up for a free memory assessment.

Lutheran Home Partners with Great Lakes Clinical Trials

Clinical trials will be more convenient and available for residents in the Northwest suburbs as the result of a new partnership between the Center for Wellness on the campus of Lutheran Home in Arlington Heights and Great Lakes Clinical Trials.

The independent, phase I-IV clinical trial center will have a clinic on the Lutheran Home campus, 800 W. Oakton St. Great Lakes specializes in the study of investigational medications, food products and supplements for the treatment of chronic diseases.

Clinical trials are carefully supervised research studies, whereby new investigational treatments and medications are evaluated for safety and effectiveness by a medical team. The Food and Drug Administration requires all pharmaceutical companies to thoroughly test new medications before they become available to consumers.

All medications in use today -- prescription and over-the-counter -- were first proven safe and effective in clinical trials.

Each trial follows a pre-defined plan, or protocol, which describes what types of patients may enter the study, schedules of tests and procedures, drugs, dosages, and length of study, as well as outcomes that are measured.

Lutheran Home has particular interest in Great Lakes' Alzheimer's and dementia research studies. A clinical trial participant can play a more active role in their own health care, gain access to new research treatments before they are widely available, and help others by contributing to medical research.

Additionally, since investigators are often specialists in the disease being studied, participants receive expert medical care for the specific condition. A participant in a clinical trial may help in the development of new medical therapies. These therapies, if proven to be safe and effective, can help improve the quality of life by offering better treatments and even cures for people with Alzheimer's and dementia.

Clinical research studies offer volunteers the benefits of free physical exams, study-related medical testing and study medication. Many studies offer compensation for time and travel and transportation is provided if needed.

When you participate in a clinical trial, your privacy is protected. Your medical records are confidential. The trial data that is provided to the pharmaceutical company and the FDA will not include your name or the names of other individuals participating in the study. There is no cost for physician visits or medications.

Lutheran Home hopes that more people will participate in Alzheimer's and dementia related clinical studies, gaining access to new research treatments before they are widely available.

Great Lakes also has offices in Chicago but hopes partnership will allow easier access for individuals in the Northwest suburbs who may be reluctant to travel into the city.

For information on current trials, go to www.greatlakesclinicaltrials.com. For information on the Center for Wellness, visit www.Lutheranhome.org or stop in. There are opportunities to participate in a free memory screening to see if a clinical trial is appropriate for you.

www.dailyherald.com
posted: 6/13/2016 8:55 AM

Great Lakes Clinical Trials Initiates Uterine Fibroid Research Study

www.myfibroidstudy.com (773) 275-3500 www.greatlakesclinicaltrials.com

Great Lakes Clinical Trials to Present at State of Edgewater Event

The Edgewater Chamber of Commerce will be hosting their annual State of Edgewater event.  Elected representatives will discuss how their work impacts Edgewater, from the ward level to federal level, and everything in between.  Confirmed speakers include Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, State Senator Heather Steans, State Representative Kelly Cassidy, State Representative Greg Harris, Cook County Commissioner Bridget Gainer, 40th Ward Alderman Patrick O’Connor, and 48th Ward Alderman Harry Osterman.

Steve Satek
President and Co-Founder Great Lakes Clinical Trials

As a prominent business in the neighborhood, Great Lakes Clinical Trials will be co-presenting at this event.  "Our organization has contributed important advances in internationally-recognized medical research, and the Edgewater community has been an integral part of our success,"  commented Steve Satek, President and Co-Founder of Great Lakes Clinical Trials.  "I'm honored to have the opportunity to present our achievements to our elected officials, neighboring businesses, community leaders, and residents."

The event takes place on Tuesday, June 7th at 8:30 at the The Breakers at Edgewater Beach, 5333 North Sheridan Road in Chicago.  For more information, visit the event website by clicking here.
 

PTSD Study Conducted at Great Lakes Clinical Trials Reports Positive Results

Under the direction of Dr. Jeffrey Ross, Medical Director and Board-Certified Psychiatrist, Great Lakes Clinical Trials was honored to be one of 25 U.S. clinical trial sites which conducted a dose-finding clinical study of TNX-102 SL (cyclobenzaprine HCl sublingual tablets) in military-related PTSD (The "AtEase Study").

The results of the AtEase Study were announced in a press release issued on May 19, 2016 by the study sponsor, Tonix Pharmaceuticals.   To download a copy of the full press release, please click here.

According to the press release.:

• The goal of the AtEase Study was to evaluate the potential clinical benefit of using TNX- 102 SL to treat military-related PTSD at a dose of 2.8 mg or 5.6 mg. 

• Although the 2.8 mg dose trended in the direction of a therapeutic effect, it did not reach statistical significance on the primary endpoint. In contrast, the 5.6 mg dose had a therapeutic effect.

Seth Lederman, M.D., president and chief executive officer of Tonix, stated,

“TNX-102 SL 5.6 mg taken sublingually (under the tongue) at bedtime demonstrated efficacy and safety for the treatment of military-related PTSD compared to placebo. We are pleased to have established a dose-response relationship of TNX-102 SL in this Phase 2 PTSD study and identified the 5.6 mg dose as appropriate for Phase 3 development."

The AtEase Study was Phase 2 clinical trial. Tonix Pharmaceuticals will now work with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to develop a Phase 3 research program to support the registration of TNX-102 SL 5.6 mg for the treatment of PTSD.  Dr. Ross and Great Lakes Clinical Trials hope to be involved in that program as well.  At the conclusion of the Phase 3 program and if the program is successful, we may soon see TNX-102 available via prescription to the general public.

“Our Great Lakes Clinical Trials team would like to personally thank our AtEase Study volunteers for their participation in this clinical trial. Not only have you dedicated your lives to protecting the United States and our local communities, but your contribution to this important clinical research program has shown further commitment to improving the health and quality of life of all Americans.”

— Steve Satek, President and Co-Founder