ExAblate Blood-Brain Barrier Opening for Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

This study is a prospective, open label, single-arm, non-randomized, phase IIa trial to evaluate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of repeated, BBB opening using the ExAblate® Model Type 2.0 (220 kHz) system. Patients with diagnosis of Probable Alzheimer's Disease may qualify for a clinical trial to have three serial ExAblate BBB disruption procedures in specific areas in the brain.This study will be conducted at a single center in Canada and will enroll up to 30 patients.

Inclusion criteria

• Male or Female between 50-85 years of age
• Probable Alzheimer's Disease (AD)
• If taking concurrent Alzheimer's medication, has been on the medication for at least 2 months with a stable dose for at least 3 months
• Able to communicate sensations during the ExAblate MRgFUS procedure
• Ambulatory

Exclusion criteria

• MRI Findings
• Presence of unknown or MR unsafe devices anywhere in the body
• Significant cardiac disease or unstable hemodynamic status
• Relative contraindications to ultrasound contrast agent or PET amyloid tracer
• History of a bleeding disorder
• History of liver disease
• Known cerebral or systemic vasculopathy
• Significant depression and at potential risk of suicide
• Any contraindications to MRI scanning
• Any contraindication to lumbar puncture for collection of cerebral spinal fluid
• Untreated, uncontrolled sleep apnea
• History of seizure disorder or epilepsy
• Severely Impaired renal function
• Currently in a clinical trial involving an investigational product or non-approved use of a drug or device or in any other type of medical research
• Chronic pulmonary disorders
• Positive human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
• Known apolipoprotein E allele (ApoE4) homozygosity