Cyclopharm Ltd (ASX:CYC) is commencing a new study to assess lung function in real time, using its radioactive functional ventilation tracer called Technegas.
Technegas generators produce a gas which is inhaled by patients before taking scans, to assist in the detection of pulmonary embolism.
It is worth noting that Technegas is currently sold in 56 countries, primarily for the diagnosis of patients suspected of having pulmonary embolism.
Importantly, Technegas business generated a revenue of $14.4mln in FY 2016.
100 patients enrolled in new trial
The first patient has been enrolled this week for the new trial, which is being carried out in collaboration with the University of Newcastle and Hunter Medical Research Institute.
Study participants will breathe in Technegas and undergo three-dimensional nuclear medicine imaging in parallel with a low dose CT scan.
The combined scans will illustrate detailed images of airspaces and blood vessels in the lungs.
Of the 100 patients recruited, 30 will have a follow-up image taken to provide important insights into the early treatment response.
This initiative has the potential to lead toward new methodologies in diagnosing and managing patients suffering from a variety of respiratory diseases.
Cyclopharm recently concluded a successful trial in China for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), confirming a significant new market opportunity for Technegas.