Andaris agent enters renal study

Ultrasound contrast developer Andaris is exploring radiological applications for its Quantison agent. The Nottingham, U.K.-based company has begun a phase II clinical trial to examine the efficiency of the intravenous agent during renal imaging. To be conducted at the University Hospital Dijkzigt in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, the trial will employ Quantison during renal imaging in patients with hypertension resulting from renal artery stenosis that was proven angiographically.

Quantison, which consists of a 3-micron air-filled albumin microcapsule, was initially designed for myocardial perfusion and cardiac chamber analysis; previous clinical studies have showed good results in both left ventricular opacification and myocardial perfusion, according to the company. In February, company executives said that Quantison might also be suitable for peripheral vascular and general radiology applications (SCAN 2/5/97).