After Phase III trials that failed to show a significant effect in slowing the progression of mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease for Eli Lilly's ($LLY) investigational drug solanezumab, an analysis of the data has suggested that rises in blood levels of beta amyloid could act as a biomarker for activity of the drug. According to an article in Reuters, researchers believe that this increase in blood levels suggests that the drug is removing the protein from the brain. Supported by re-examination of the Phase III data, which show that the drug might slow cognitive decline in patients with early-stage disease, this could restore at least a little faith in the agent. It could indicate a role for this type of drug in very early disease, when removing beta amyloid may make a difference in disease progression. Further studies will be needed. Article