Alliance to Develop Optical Imaging for Breast Cancer

Philips Medical Systems (Best, The Netherlands) and pharmaceutical company Schering AG (Berlin, Germany) have formed a collaboration to research, develop, and market medical equipment and associated contrast agents for optical imaging.

As part of their collaboration, the companies will have the option to expand the alliance to cover other imaging technologies and contrast agents, where synergies between the partners are expected, and will also explore the emerging field of molecular imaging. Philips and Schering have agreed to split equally all research and development costs as well as all future revenues. Financial details of the alliance were not disclosed.

Optical imaging is a new imaging modality with the potential to provide new applications in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer as well as other diseases. Optical imaging uses lasers to illuminate superficial tissue--such as breast tissue. By combining this technology with an optical dye, tumors might be targeted more accurately. Because of its high resolution and sensitivity, optical imaging is predicted to provide breast cancer patients with a less-aggressive, more patient-friendly follow-up screening. Currently, such patients may need to undergo the invasive procedure of a biopsy in cases where conventional exams produce uncertain results.

"Schering is highly committed to drive innovation in the field of optical imaging,” said Dr. Karin Dorrepaal, member of the executive board of Schering AG, responsible for diagnostic imaging. "We are looking forward to combining our expertise in the field of optical imaging agents with Philips' strong capabilities in medical imaging and established track record in developing leading edge diagnostic imaging.”

The alliance's first development project will combine an optical dye called omocianine (SF-64) from Schering for the diagnosis of breast cancer, currently in phase I trials, with an enhanced mammography device developed by Philips. The companies will also explore the emerging field of molecular imaging, looking at how to develop dyes that can potentially target breast tumors at the molecular level. It is estimated that once products are commercialized, the market for optical imaging contrast agents and equipment will see average annual growth rates of over 20%.





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