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JUNE 22nd, 2005
Philips Medical Systems has opened an advanced magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) facility at is Cleveland operation. The 7.0 tesla system at the facility has one of the highest levels
of sensitivity for a MRI machine. It is to be used in the study of neurological diseases such as Alzheimers, Parkinsons and
multiple sclerosis.
Today, most common MRI scanners are specified at 1.5 teslas. High
end machines are rated at 3.0 tesla. Tesla is a unit of magnetic strength that reflects the imaging resolution capabilities
of MRI scanners.
Dr. Michael V. Knopp, Chairman of the Department of Radiology
at The Ohio State University and Principle Investigator, commented on the advanced 7.0 tesla system, "The advanced capability
of the 7.0T research system has exciting implications for some of medicine's most difficult challenges. Although we are still
in the early stages of research, it is clear that the 7.0T capability suggests that the system will be particularly strong
in many areas of oncology and at imaging degenerative neurological diseases - Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis
- as well as other neurological conditions such as epilepsy, since it is clear that the 7.0T produces improved imaging of
blood flow and oxygen use in the brain."
MAY 13th, 2005
AC Immune, based in Switzerland, completed round B financing valued
at CHF 21 million. The company is developing treatment for Alzheimers through vaccination or passive immunization. The immunotherapy
centers on the beta amyloid protein, fundamental to the formation of plaques.
Andrea Pfeifer, CEO of AC Immune spoke about the stage of development
their products are in, "After obtaining encouraging results in animal studies showing the unique features of AC Immune's immunotherapeutic
approach, we are very excited to move into the next phase of testing our lead molecules for clinical submission."
APRIL 25th, 2005
General Electric Company (NYSE: GE), through its business units,
GE Global Research and GE Healthcare, have entered into an agreement with Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE: LLY) to develop technology
related to the cure and diagnosis of Alzheimer's Diseases. The two company's plan to focus their efforts on beta-amyloid,
a protein in the brain, that is considered related to advancement of the disease. Steven Paul, Executive Vice President for
Science and Technology and President of Lilly Research Laboratories explained the strategy, "Earlier diagnosis of Alzheimer's--before
the advent of damage in the memory regions of the brain--has the potential to transform the treatment of this disease. A combined
diagnostic and therapeutic regimen that would identify people with pre-symptomatic elevated levels of beta-amyloid proteins
and plaques in their brain might enable physicians to prescribe a therapeutic to slow or stop the progression of the disease."
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