NEW YORK – Venture capitalist Peter Thiel’s recent comments on Alzheimer’s research have sparked controversy, drawing criticism from experts in the field.
The New York Times published an extensive interview with Peter Thiel, where he expressed skepticism about progress in Alzheimer’s research. Thiel, known for his provocative views, claimed that there has been “zero progress” in the field over the past 40 to 50 years, suggesting that the focus on beta amyloids is misguided.
Immediate Impact
Thiel’s assertions have been met with swift rebuttals from the scientific community. Sterling Johnson, a professor of Geriatrics and Gerontology at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, refuted Thiel’s claims, highlighting significant advancements in the understanding and detection of Alzheimer’s disease.
“What we’ve been able to do in the last 20 years has been actually pretty extraordinary,” Johnson told Engadget. “We’ve developed markers that help us identify when this disease starts, using amyloid markers and tau biomarkers.”
Key Details Emerge
Despite Thiel’s claims, experts emphasize that while Alzheimer’s remains incurable, there have been meaningful strides in detection and prevention. Johnson noted that the first treatments targeted symptoms, akin to treating a cold, but recent approaches aim to modify the disease biology.
Current clinical trials are exploring monoclonal antibodies like gantenerumab, lecanemab, and donanemab, which show promise in clearing beta-amyloid and potentially preventing the onset of Alzheimer’s symptoms.
Industry Response
The Alzheimer’s Association has labeled Thiel’s remarks as “demonstrably false,” pointing out the diversity of research efforts. They highlighted that less than 14% of recent NIH Alzheimer’s projects focused solely on amyloid beta.
“As of September 2024, the National Institute on Aging was investing in 495 pharmacological and non-pharmacological trials,” the association stated.
Expert Analysis
Thiel’s comments align with critiques from figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., though experts argue these views overlook the breadth of current research. Johnson emphasized that ongoing phase-three prevention trials are crucial in advancing treatment options.
Thiel, a proponent of radical life extension, has voiced frustration with what he perceives as slow progress. However, experts argue that the current pace of research reflects the complexity of Alzheimer’s disease.
Background Context
Thiel’s comments come amid broader discussions on the direction of Alzheimer’s research and the role of government funding. The Trump administration’s approach to science funding has been criticized by some as undermining research efforts.
“In reality, over the most recent 10 years available (2014-2023), less than 14% of new National Institutes of Health (NIH) Alzheimer’s projects focused on amyloid beta as the therapeutic target,” the Alzheimer’s Association wrote.
What Comes Next
As research continues to evolve, the scientific community remains focused on developing effective treatments. The ongoing trials of monoclonal antibodies represent a promising avenue, offering hope for future breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s treatment.
Thiel’s comments, while controversial, have reignited public interest and debate on the state of Alzheimer’s research, underscoring the importance of continued investment and innovation in the field.
The story has been updated to include additional clinical trial information as of June 27, 2025.
