Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of individuals and families across the United States, with prevalence expected to rise as the population ages. While there is still no cure, recent years have seen groundbreaking advancements in early detection and treatment—progress that has been made possible, in part, through clinical research.
At Radiology Regional, powered by LucidHealth, we are proud to serve as a trusted partner in this effort, providing the advanced imaging and research integrity needed to support clinical trials for new Alzheimer’s therapies. Our work in this space reflects our commitment to both innovation and compassion, ensuring that patients and their families have access to hope through science.
Trusted Imaging Partner in Clinical Trials
Richard Chapman, Radiology Regional’s Clinical Trial Coordinator, has been at the forefront of Alzheimer’s research for more than two decades, including nearly 10 years with Radiology Regional. Earlier in his career, Chapman supported trials that led to the approval of important therapies now changing the standard of care for Alzheimer’s disease patients, such as FDA-approved Leqembi and Kisunla.
“Our role is to deliver highly specific, reproducible imaging under strict research protocols,” Chapman explains. “Every detail must remain consistent. That level of integrity is why sponsors and physicians trust Radiology Regional to perform these studies.”
At Radiology Regional, physician leadership is essential to the success of clinical research. Jose Rodriguez, MD and Stuart Bobman, MD oversee MRI monitoring to safeguard patient safety and ensure trial precision, while Nuclear Medicine physician Yamil Fourzali, MD provides expert interpretation of Alzheimer’s PET studies for patients outside of clinical trials.
Advanced Imaging: PET and MRI in Alzheimer’s Trials
The clinical trials we support combine advanced imaging modalities:
PET Imaging
PET scans are used to detect abnormal structures in the brain that define Alzheimer’s:
- Amyloid plaques (protein fragments) – visualized with Amyloid PET tracers.
- Tau tangles (twisted fibers of protein) – detected with Tau or MK-6240 PET tracers. The MK-6240 tracer, in particular, allows for earlier and more sensitive detection of tau accumulation, making it valuable for identifying the disease in its earliest stages
MRI Imaging
- MRI scans are used throughout clinical trials to monitor for potential adverse events from investigational drugs and to ensure participant safety over time
Together, these imaging approaches provide trial sponsors and investigators with critical information on both disease progression and drug efficacy.
Integrity and Patient-Centered Research
The success of clinical trials depends not only on advanced technology but also on patient trust. Radiology Regional works closely with principal investigators across Southwest Florida—including the Neuropsychiatric Research Center of Southwest Florida, Aqualane Clinical Research in Naples, and Dr. Liliana Montoya, Neurologist in Port Charlotte, FL—to ensure that participants receive the highest level of care during the trial process.
Over the years, Chapman has seen firsthand the impact on families:
“These trials give participants and their loved ones hope, and it’s an honor to be part of that process. From patient services and scheduling, to technologists, physicians, and the behind-the-scenes teams who provide essential administrative support— our full team works tirelessly to complete these exams with precision and care, knowing the potential they hold for the future.”
Looking Ahead: Early Diagnosis and Prevention
One of the most promising developments in recent years is the FDA’s clearance of the Lumipulse G pTau217/ß-Amyloid 1-42 Plasma Ratio blood test, a less invasive tool that aids in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Combined with advanced imaging, this test offers the possibility of earlier intervention and more accessible screening.
Chapman remains hopeful:
“We are now diagnosing patients at earlier stages, sometimes when they have only mild cognitive impairment. Current drugs are aimed at slowing progression, but the research is moving toward prevention and risk factor management. That’s the future—and that’s what gives me hope.”
A Trusted Community Partner
As a leader in diagnostic imaging and clinical research, Radiology Regional is proud to stand at the forefront of Alzheimer’s innovation. Physicians and patients alike trust us not only for our advanced imaging technology but also for the integrity and care with which we conduct these trials.
If you or a loved one are concerned about memory changes, we encourage you to speak with your healthcare provider about testing for Alzheimer’s disease and the opportunities available through ongoing research.
At Radiology Regional, we remain committed to advancing science, supporting patients, and bringing hope to families across Southwest Florida.
