EPIX PRESENTS DATA ON MRI IMAGING AGENT

Epix Pharmaceuticals has presented preclinical data on a novel gadolinium-based collagen-specific contrast agent, EP-3533. In a mouse model of myocardial infarction (heart attack), EP-3533-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was able to differentiate healthy, viable myocardium (heart muscle) from non-viable, infarcted myocardium, according to the company.

"The current study demonstrates that EP-3533 can distinguish viable from non-viable myocardium, a potential large market opportunity in cardiovascular disease imaging. We intend to seek a partner or partners to continue to develop EP-3533 either individually or along with EP-2104R, a novel fibrin-binding thrombus (clot) imaging agent," Andrew Uprichard, president of Epix Pharmaceuticals, said.

Collagen-rich fibrotic scar tissue is created in the myocardium during the healing process after myocardial infarction, according to the company. In this study, EP-3533 was given to mice 40 days after myocardial infarction. Following administration of EP-3533, strong enhancement of scar tissue began 10 minutes after the injection, with peak contrast between healthy and infarcted tissue observed at 40 minutes after injection. Image enhancement with EP-3533 lasted for at least one hour.