INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. (WOWO): A new drug shows promise in the fight against Alzheimer's.

Indianapolis-based Eli Lilly has developed a drug that targets a sticky protein that clogs the brain — potentially slowing Alzheimer's if taken early enough. The next round of testing on the potential breakthrough is expected to wrap up in 2016.

Researchers presented the findings Wednesday at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference in Washington D.C.

Officials say around 5.3 million Americans have Alzheimer's disease.