Relationship between efficacy and preferential targeting of soluble Aβ aggregates.

INTRODUCTION

Amyloid beta (Aβ)-directed antibodies have shown varying degrees of efficacy against Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study explored the relationship between targeting of Aβ molecular species and therapeutic efficacy/adverse effects.

METHODS

Surface plasmon resonance was used to measure binding of various Aβ-directed antibodies to monomers and soluble oligomers from AD brains. Plaque reactivity was assessed by immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Antibody PMN310 was tested in AD mouse models.

RESULTS

Pan-Aβ reactive antibodies that failed in the clinic lost the ability to bind AD brain oligomers when competing with monomers. Lecanemab, aducanumab, and donanemab, which slowed cognitive decline, and early stage PMN310 and ACU193 showed a greater ability to withstand monomer competition. All antibodies bound plaque except for PMN310. In mouse models, PMN310 protected cognition and was not associated with microhemorrhages.

DISCUSSION: These results suggest that selectivity for soluble toxic oligomers correlates with clinical efficacy, potentially attenuating monomer competition and amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA).

HIGHLIGHTS: Selectivity for toxic Aβ oligomers has potential to maximize efficacy and safety.Avoidance of Aβ monomers increases binding to toxic AD brain oligomers.Avoidance of Aβ plaque/vascular deposits reduces the risk of ARIA.