PIA Study

A Fresh Approach to Alzheimer’s Research: The PIA Study

Led by John Mamo, a John Curtin Distinguished Professor, and his research team at Curtin University in collaboration with the Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, the PIA Study has developed into a multi-centre clinical trial spanning Australia and New Zealand.

Their research has identified compelling evidence that circulating lipid complexes enriched with amyloid proteins can damage cerebral capillaries, triggering inflammation, neuronal loss, and the accumulation of amyloid plaques, all recognised hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.

By targeting the metabolic pathways of these fat-amyloid complexes in the bloodstream, the study aims to slow or potentially prevent disease progression. The drug probucol has shown promise in this context, with findings suggesting it may reduce the formation and leakage of these harmful complexes, protect brain microvasculature, and support cognitive function.

Supported by funding from the Medical Research Future Fund, Multiple Sclerosis Western Australia, McCusker Charitable Foundation, and the Wen Giving Foundation, the PIA Study has progressed to an active clinical trial phase. The trial is currently being conducted across multiple sites, including Perth as the lead location, along with Hobart, Adelaide, and Christchurch, marking an important step towards a potential new therapeutic approach for Alzheimer’s disease.

About Alzheimers

Alzheimer’s disease, a devastating neurodegenerative condition, poses a significant global health challenge. Currently, no therapeutic interventions have demonstrated substantial clinical effects. Most existing strategies focus on removing amyloid plaques or targeting amyloid oligomers, often too late in the disease process to make a meaningful difference.

The Probucol in Alzheimer’s (PIA) Study takes a different approach. Our research targets what we believe is the underlying cause of Alzheimer’s:  brain microvascular changes and neurovascular inflammation. By supporting the brain’s tiny blood vessels and reducing inflammation early, we aim to slow or stabilise memory loss before irreversible damage occurs.

The PIA Study is testing Probucol, a potential neuroprotective compound, to see if it can support memory and thinking skills and slow cognitive and functional decline in people with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.

This Australian government–funded clinical trial is led by Prof John Mamo, Prof Roger Clarnette, Dr Virginie Lam, and A/Prof Ryu Takechi, with trial coordination by Ms Caitlin Moralee and Ms Sarah Schwab. Recruitment is open across Perth (lead site), Adelaide (the Queen Elizabeth Hospital), Hobart (University of Tasmania), and Christchurch, New Zealand (CGM Research Trust).

Participants receive comprehensive assessments and ongoing support over 2 years, alongside a study partner such as a family member or friend.

About The Clinical Trial

The PIA Study is designed to evaluate the efficacy of probucol as a potential therapeutic intervention for Alzheimer’s disease. Originally developed for the management of cardiovascular conditions and stroke, probucol has demonstrated encouraging indications of supporting memory function in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, with an established safety profile.

Study Objectives
This trial aims to assess whether probucol can preserve cognitive performance and functional ability in individuals diagnosed with mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease. The primary objective is to determine whether treatment may slow the progression of cognitive decline.

Clinical Trial Design

• The study involves a 104 week ( 2 years) treatment period, during which participants receive daily oral doses of either probucol or a placebo.

Total Duration

• Participation may extend up to 112 weeks (2 years & 8 weeks), allowing for screening and follow up.

Screening Phase

• A screening period of up to 56 days is conducted prior to treatment to confirm participant eligibility.

Treatment Allocation
Participants are randomly assigned to receive either probucol or a placebo according to a computer generated schedule. The study follows a double blind design, meaning neither participants nor investigators are aware of the treatment allocation, except in the case of medical necessity.

Study Visits and Contact
Over the course of the trial, participants will attend 14 clinic visits and complete 7 scheduled telephone consultations. No overnight stays are required.

Visit Procedures
Clinic visits typically last between 1 and 3 hours and may include:

• medical history review,
• cognitive assessments,
• physical and neurological examinations,
• vital signs monitoring,
• blood sampling,
• electrocardiograms,
• and imaging such as PET and MRI scans.

Participation Requirements

A partner, spouse, or carer is required to:

• Attend at least one screening visit
• Complete a questionnaire
• Be available via phone or in-person to provide necessary information for the study duration.

For more information or to see if you or someone you know may be eligible, visit

Email: piastudy@curtin.edu.au
WEB: www.piastudy.com.au
MOB: +61 468 532 458