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Imaging in its Heyday: Research Applications (Part 1)

Biomolecular imaging is upgrading diagnostic imaging's stodgy reputation as scientists increasingly use it to improve both pharmaceutical research and clinical care. Part I of a two-part series explores researchers' excitement about biomolecular imaging's potential to improve the drug development process. Many companies see research applications as a way to prime the marketplace for clinical applications. But venture capitalists think research is a limited opportunity.

By Wendy Diller

Looking for early evidence that its key cancer drug imatinib mesylate (Gleevec) was effective in patients with inoperable gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), Novartis AG tried a somewhat novel approach: using PET imaging and FDG contrast agent to visualize changes in the tumor. Within an hour of administering the drug to patients in a Phase I study, the tumors exhibited metabolic changes, converting from FDG positive to FDG negative. The alterations themselves didn't get Novartis researchers excited. Rather, they were struck by the correlation between those changes and subsequent alterations in the anatomical structure of the tumor, which became apparent only months after treatment

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China Still ‘Attractive’ For Danaher Despite $50M VBP Drag

 
• By Shubham Singh

Apart from the reimbursement-driven turbulence in diagnostics, other aspects of Danaher’s China business are showing signs of resilience. Patient volumes remain strong and the company does not see evidence that the Chinese government is attempting to actively push Western suppliers out of its healthcare system.

Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre CGM Reduces Cardiovascular Disease-Related Hospitalization

 
• By Natasha Barrow

The REFLECT studies showed a 78% reduction in cardiovascular disease-related hospitalization for people living with type 1 diabetes with prior low blood sugar episodes.

Danaher Faces $350M Tariff Hit, But Says It’s Ready To Absorb The Blow

 
• By Shubham Singh

Despite Danaher’s confident outlook, the company acknowledged near-term profitability fluctuations, particularly in the second quarter. Matt McGrew, Danaher’s CFO, clarified during the company’s first-quarter earnings call on 22 April, that expected operating margin softness in the second quarter – forecast at 25.5% – was not related to tariffs, but to seasonal dynamics in its respiratory diagnostics business.

Roche To Localize CGM Manufacturing in US with $550M Indiana Site Investment

 
• By Shubham Singh

Roche’s Indianapolis site currently produces 5.2 billion Accu-Chek test strips annually and supports distribution to 53 countries. The new CGM line will add to an already diversified operational footprint, which includes R&D, laboratories, manufacturing, and IT services.

More from Business

LSX Europe: Women’s Health Education Is The Key For Unlocking VC Investment

 
• By Natasha Barrow

Flo Health was the first femtech unicorn to be valued at over $1bn. But the company faced 49 investment rejections before reaching that status, Anna Klepchukova, the company’s chief medical officer, told the LSX World Congress Europe. THENA Capital’s Esther Reynal de St Michel Richardot talked through the firm’s gender-smart investment strategy.

Synchron And Apple Team Up To Use ‘Mind-Thought Connection’ To Control iPhones, iPads

 
• By Marion Webb

Apple and Synchron are teaming up to develop technologies that will one day allow people who can’t use their hands or voice to control iPhones, iPads and other Apple devices by using only their thoughts.

Abbott’s FreeStyle Libre CGM Reduces Cardiovascular Disease-Related Hospitalization

 
• By Natasha Barrow

The REFLECT studies showed a 78% reduction in cardiovascular disease-related hospitalization for people living with type 1 diabetes with prior low blood sugar episodes.