The Biggest Challenge in Treating Alzheimer Disease: A Conversation With Oleg Tcheremissine, MD

Psychiatric Times recently sat down with Oleg V. Tcheremissine, MD, who has more than 20 years of clinical and research experience, to learn more about the current Alzheimer disease landscape.

When asked what the biggest challenge in Alzheimer disease is, Tcheremissine explained the complexity of the disease is the biggest challenge, noting the significant role of amyloid plaque but also acknowledging the disorder's multifaceted nature. Current advancements in imaging techniques and biomarkers are allowing for better measurement of plaque and drug engagement.

“Our advancement in imaging techniques and biomarkers really allowed us to not only quantitatively but qualitatively measure plaque. As someone who has been working in psychiatric drug development for decades, it was very, very interesting to actually see how the pharmacological agents or compounds in development engage the target. It is the first time in my life as a drug developer and investigator that I can actually see how drug engages with our target,” said Tcheremissine.

Additionally, there has been a shift in drug development in the Alzheimer space, with an increase in pharmacological agents, including anti-tau and anti-inflammatory agents.

Dr Tcheremissine is a professor and research director in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine at Atrium Health/Wake Forest Medical University-Charlotte Campus.