Bracco Collaborates with Arrayus on Microbubble-Assisted Focused Ultrasound Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer remains one of the most difficult cancers to treat due to its dense tissue structure, which limits the effectiveness of traditional drug therapies. Bracco Imaging S.A. (Milan, Italy) and Arrayus Technologies (Burlington, ON, Canada) have entered into a collaboration that will leverage Bracco’s microbubble technology in combination with Arrayus' leading focused ultrasound therapy platform to improve targeted drug delivery in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This collaboration will enable Arrayus to investigate how microbubbles, when combined with focused ultrasound, can temporarily increase the permeability of biological barriers, such as blood vessels and cellular membranes, to improve the uptake of therapeutic agents directly into pancreatic tumors.

Under the terms of the agreement, Bracco Imaging will supply Arrayus with microbubbles for use in the development and commercialization of its focused ultrasound platform for pancreatic cancer. Arrayus’ proprietary focused ultrasound technology combines a unique flat phased array design with advanced imaging and therapy monitoring for unprecedented treatment control and flexibility. This disruptive non-invasive technology can be used as an alternative or complement to traditional surgery, radiation therapy or immunotherapy. Initial safety and feasibility data from preclinical studies along with a clinical protocol for an upcoming pilot study in PDAC patients will be presented at the International Society for Therapeutic Ultrasound Conference from September 19-22, 2024.

Image: Focused ultrasound therapy is poised to become an essential tool in every hospital, cancer care center and physician office (Photo courtesy of Arrayus)

"We are excited to partner with Bracco in studying the clinical benefits of microbubble-assisted focused ultrasound therapy," said James O'Reilly, CEO of Arrayus Technologies. "Together we hope this approach will allow us to maximize the therapeutic impact of both existing and innovative drugs, potentially reducing off-target effects and improving outcomes for patients."

''We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Arrayus to revolutionize the treatment of pancreatic cancer,'' said Thierry Bettinger, Bracco Research Center Geneva Director. ''By leveraging cutting-edge gas microbubble technology combined with the Arrayus focused ultrasound system, we aim to enhance the precision and effectiveness of treatments, offering new hope to patients and their families. Together, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of medical innovation and improving patient outcomes.''

Related Links:
Bracco Imaging S.A.
Arrayus Technologies