Clinical Trials For New Therapeutics In Alzheimer’s Disease – Ensuring Ireland Is Research-Ready

Abstract Background As Alzheimer’s disease (AD) enters a new treatment era, clinical trials are vital for patient access and aligning Ireland with global innovation. Dementia Trials Ireland (DTI), an Health Research Board (HRB) Clinical Trials Network (CTN), is building national trial capacity across pharmaceutical and non-pharmacological interventions including key studies of diverse intervention type such as EVOKE, EVOKE+ (anti-amyloid therapies), and DIAN studies (preventive approaches in genetically at-risk individuals). Despite progress, challenges persist which include our small patient population, limited specialist sites, regulatory complexity, and significant resource demands. Addressing these issues requires coordinated infrastructure development and workforce upskilling. Methods DTI’s ‘trial ready’ initiative, developed through working groups and harnessing PPI, aims to expand national dementia trial capacity and attract sponsors. Core components include a) pre-consented subtype-specific ‘trial ready’ cohorts; b) centralised feasibility support; c) an early career development programme; and d) simulation-based workforce training. DTI also engages with key national and international stakeholders and policymakers to reduce regulatory barriers and strengthen our potential for impact through international collaboration. Results Conclusion Ireland’s meaningful participation in the evolving AD research landscape depends on sustained investment in infrastructure, workforce development, and regulatory reform. DTI’s initiatives are laying the foundation for a nationally coordinated ‘trial ready’ platform. This ensures that Irish patients will benefit from early access to innovative therapies and that the country contributes to advancing global dementia care.