Banner Alzheimer’s Institute

Since 2006, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute (BAI) has revolutionized the medical landscape for Alzheimer’s disease, making major discoveries in how the disease is diagnosed, treated and evaluated over time. We strive to search for viable prevention and treatment therapies to deliver on our unique promise that both hope and help are possible in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

Our pioneering contributions are credited to our forward-thinking and experienced research leadership teams who have developed and lead numerous groundbreaking NIH research grants, data sharing programs and industry sponsored clinical trials. Our efforts have led to precedent-setting research initiatives, as well as new paradigms and methods in the early detection of Alzheimer’s, which have resulted in landmark findings and established ourselves as world leaders in Alzheimer’s research and care. 

Embedding Clinical Research into Care

We integrate the latest advancements and research opportunities into our continuum of care, giving patients access to cutting-edge detection and treatment methods for Alzheimer’s and related dementias. Our established memory centers in Phoenix and Tucson, designated as Banner Health Centers of Excellence, provide the unique opportunity to help connect patients to the right clinical trial opportunity.

Brain Imaging Research

Brain imaging and computational analysis at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute is internationally recognized for clinical services, such as diagnostics and treatment evaluations, and research studies that explore the brain’s structure and mechanisms. Our advanced imaging techniques, include:

• Positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT)
• 3 Tesla Magnetic resonance imaging (3T MRI)
• Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)

Learn more about brain imaging for Alzheimer’s disease. 

Radiotracer Development for PET (Positron Emission Tomography)

Our facility’s state-of-the-art Cyclotron and Radiochemistry Laboratory is a regional resource for researchers developing innovative and specialized PET imaging radioactive isotopes. In the laboratory, we synthesize novel PET-labeled compounds and radiopharmaceuticals for pre-clinical and clinical evaluations.

Unlike most imaging facilities, we can eliminate the physical constraints of accessing short-lived radioisotopes and allows the imaging capabilities of the PET scanners to be used for research needs. Isotopes with a longer half-life – 60-120 minutes – can be shipped to regional PET scanners, if desired. However, for isotopes with a shorter half-life, Banner Brain Imaging supports PET scan imaging within the same facility.

Providing an Optimal Research Environment

Pursuing innovation requires continual investment in resources, tools and technologies. Banner Alzheimer’s Institute maintains an environment dedicated to research by offering:

• Research operations embedded within our outpatient clinic   
• Electronic medical record (EMR) integration for chart review and study feasibility   
• On-site safety lab processing 
• Advanced biomarker and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection and processing   
• GMP-compliant pharmacy with registered pharmacist and compounding capabilities   
• Secure, temperature-controlled drug storage with IV infusion capability
• Standard and refrigerated centrifuges 
• -20C and -80C freezers   
• Backup power source for all critical systems 
• Locked, fire-resistant file storage   
• Private rooms with high-speed internet access for study monitor

Contact Us

Banner Alzheimer's Institute - Phoenix
901 E Willetta St.
Phoenix , AZ 85006
(602) 839-6500

Banner Alzheimer’s Institute - Tucson
2626 E River Rd.
Tucson , AZ 85718
(520) 694-7021