Focus Keyphrase: Why Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials Fail

Published in: Indiana Business Journal’s BIOFUTURES magazine

In the pursuit of treating Alzheimer’s disease, clinical trials remain essential—but notoriously difficult to succeed. Despite decades of effort and billions invested, many Alzheimer’s trials still fail. In this exclusive video interview, Jason C. Bork, President of Pintail Solutions, unpacks why—and what can actually move the needle.

Key Reasons Alzheimer’s Clinical Trials Fail

• Incomplete understanding of Alzheimer’s pathology: Amyloid and tau are known factors, but their complexity remains unresolved.
• High screen failure rates: Some trials see up to 95% of participants screened out, often at a high cost.
• Lack of diversity: Black and Hispanic populations face double the risk but remain underrepresented in most studies.

As Jason C. Bork explains, drug failures aren’t always setbacks—they often provide vital insights into disease mechanisms. Still, smarter site selection, better community engagement, and the use of emerging technologies are critical to improving outcomes.

How Emerging Tech Can Improve Alzheimer’s Trials

Blood-based and ocular biomarkers, digital screening tools, and AI-powered data models are reshaping the trial landscape. These technologies help reduce the number of costly PET scans and improve prescreening accuracy—potentially saving millions per study.

Improving Diversity in Alzheimer’s Clinical Research

Inclusive recruitment is not just a moral imperative—it’s an FDA expectation. Yet, clinical research sponsors often fail to build long-term relationships in underserved communities. Success demands sustained engagement, trust-building, and partnerships with organizations that already have strong ties to these populations.

“The most successful trials don’t start with a drug—they start with the right people, right sites, and the right partnerships.”

—Jason C. Bork, Pintail Solutions

Watch the Full Interview

For an in-depth look at why Alzheimer’s clinical trials fail and how to make them more effective, watch the full video interview with Jason C. Bork above.

Learn more about Pintail Solutions’ approach to clinical trial optimization.