Bayer Schering Pharma launches trial of breast cancer treatment

Bayer Schering Pharma has commenced a phase III clinical study of a compound intended to facilitate magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans for breast cancer treatment.

The pharmaceutical company is looking to establish the safety and efficacy of Gadovist, a contrast agent which allows for better quality imaging due to its high rate of T1-shortening per ml.

This compound is already in widespread use as a contrast agent in imaging the kidney, liver and central nervous system and is applied to both adult and paediatric patients.

Thomas Balzer, head of global clinical development diagnostic imaging at Bayer Schering Pharma, said its established qualities could make it a potentially valuable agent in magnetic resonance mammography.

He added: “As a pioneer in contrast-media research, Bayer is continuously working to provide physicians with high-quality contrast media for use in various indications of contrast enhanced MRI.”

Last month, Bayer published encouraging clinical trial results from a study of VEGF Trap-Eye, a treatment for sufferers of diabetic macular edema.