The alliance's first development project will combine an optical dye called omocianine (SF-64) from Schering for the diagnosis of breast cancer, currently in Phase I trials, with an enhanced mammography device developed by Philips. The companies will also explore the emerging field of molecular imaging, looking at how to develop dyes that can potentially target breast tumors at the molecular level. Philips and Schering believe the alliance announced today will put them in a leading position in the emerging optical imaging market.

It is estimated that once products are commercialized, the market for optical imaging contrast agents and equipment will see average annual growth rates of over 20%.


According to health services company Imaginis Corporation, breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in women today (after lung cancer). The World Health Organization estimates that more than 1.2 million people around the world will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year, with the number of deaths among women expected to exceed 40,000 in the United States alone. Death rates from breast cancer did decline significantly between 1992 and 1996, according to the American Cancer Society, and medical experts attribute the decline to earlier detection and more effective treatments.

Back to HCB News

More Industry Headlines