Under the agreement, initial development and integration will be a joint effort between the two companies. Once development is complete, Varian will offer customers a fully integrated 7T system combining GE Healthcare’s electronics, user interface, pulse-sequences and applications with the magnet, gradients, positioning devices and RF coils provided by Varian.
Preclinical magnetic resonance imaging is said to be a versatile and non-invasive method to investigate anatomy, metabolism, and physiology in research models. It has a broad range of applications in soft tissues, including brain and organ imaging, tumor assessment, disease progression, and functional imaging.
Garry Rogerson, president and CEO of Varian, said: “Preclinical imaging is a key area of growth for Varian. We are very pleased to be entering into this collaboration with GE. Our established magnetic resonance imaging product range is highly regarded by the MR scientific community, and this new system enables us to reach beyond our traditional customers.”