GE Healthcare commences new trial of imaging agent

GE Healthcare has commenced a phase III study of a new positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agent for use in the field of brain imaging.

The agent, flutemetamol, is used in conjunction with PET scans of the brain in order to improve detection of conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.

Phase III trials have already commenced at sites in Europe and the US following the completion of a phase II study, which tested the agent among patients being scanned for Alzheimer’s and mild cognitive impairment.

Dr William Klunk, professor of psychiatry and neurology at the University of Pittsburgh, said the availability of a tool such as flutemetamol could bring “tremendous benefits” to the field of Alzheimer’s treatment.

He added: “Increasing focus on the early diagnosis of this devastating disease might offer an opportunity to contribute to the knowledge base of the physician as we strive to progress novel treatment and management regimes.”

Last month, the company introduced a new version of the Logiq E9 ultrasound platform, which includes elastography functionality for greater versatility.