The partnership intends to develop MRI applications to quantify crucial markers of MS disease activity and progression.
MRI will enable physicians to diagnose MS, measure disease activity and monitor response to therapy. Clinicians qualitatively assess MRIs by comparing the current MRI to the previous MRI.
Multiple studies have showed that quantitative MRI measures will offer additional information about disease prognosis and therapeutic effect, while quantitative measurement techniques with the precision and sensitivity required for MS are specifically available in the research setting.
The development and validation of automated MRI applications to quantify key markers of MS, including new T2 lesions and brain atrophy, will provide patients with expanded data at the point of care.
Siemens Healthineers MRI senior vice president Dr Christoph Zindel said: “By bringing together the shared expertise of both Siemens Healthineers and Biogen in imaging and neurology, respectively, we seek to develop new measurement tools that meet the particular technical challenges of MS.
“Our shared goal is to create a solution that can be integrated into the existing radiology workflow, so it can become a seamless part of routine care – delivering new and valuable information to treating neurologists, without increasing the cost or burden on the healthcare system.”
Biogen development sciences vice president Dr Richard Rudick said: “Biogen believes that the availability of high-quality, standardized data at the point of care can lead to a deeper understanding of MS, more informed treatment decisions and, ultimately, improved patient outcomes.”
