The general media in the U.S. and abroad have discovered the story of autosomal-dominant, early-onset Alzheimer’s disease, showcasing its human face while raising awareness among large international audiences. Meanwhile, researchers in the South American nation of Colombia and the U.S. are racing to prepare for therapeutic trials in dozens of such families afflicted with this particularly dreadful form of AD. They argue that therapeutic success in rare mutation carriers destined to develop AD will serve as a stepping stone toward preclinical trials of sporadic AD, which afflicts millions.

Along the way, they are publishing new research about the asymptomatic phase of AD. Reporting from a recent expert meeting of scientists and regulatory experts held in Washington, D.C., Gabrielle Strobel pulls together current developments on this frontline of the fight against AD. While research is gearing up, a new charitable foundation invites donations and volunteer work to support Colombian families, who frequently care for several loved ones at a time.