In a recent Channel 9 news feature, health correspondent Gabriella Rogers reported on a groundbreaking milestone in Australian neuroscience research—the completion of the final patient visit in the APM001 trial, part of the innovative Australian Parkinson’s Mission (APM). Led by Professor Simon Lewis at Macquarie University, APM001 marks the conclusion of the world’s first platform trial for Parkinson’s disease, which tested three repurposed treatments under a single unified protocol. Results are expected before the end of 2025 and could provide critical insights into disease-modifying therapies.

This global-first trial uses a Smart Trial approach, integrating blood-based biomarkers to confirm whether therapies are engaging their biological targets and impacting disease processes. In parallel, participants undergo genetic phenotyping, enabling researchers to better understand the disease’s underlying mechanisms and pave the way for future precision medicine.

Professor Lewis emphasized the importance of this novel model in accelerating the path toward effective treatments. While APM001 has now concluded, recruitment remains open for APM002, the second phase of the trial series, which is testing additional therapeutic candidates using the same innovative design.

People living with Parkinson’s disease can register their interest to participate at www.theapm.org.au. The APM continues to lead international efforts in reshaping how Parkinson’s clinical trials are conducted.