When creating PACI we considered many different ideas for our design.
Florbetapir vs. FDDNP
The biomarker that would safely and effectively bind to beta-amyloid plaques is florbetapir. The alternative choice was FDDNP, which also attaches to beta-amyloid plaques. However, FDDNP is not FDA approved and may cause harmful side effects. Florbetapir is a safer option proven to be effective. PET vs. MRI A PET scan is designed to use radioactive tracers to capture images, whereas an MRI machine uses magnetism. Unlike an MRI, only a PET scanner can utilize a tracer, thereby effectively capturing images of the brain using florbetapir. Detection vs. Cure Our team discussed whether to develop a cure for Alzheimer’s, or to create a machine to detect the disease before symptoms appear. Without a machine to diagnose Alzheimer's, there is insufficient knowledge about the disease to develop a cure. PACI would provide this information so that in the future, a cure can be developed. |