PET tracers are aimed to image tau (or neurofibrillary) tangles in the brain, one of two known hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
Initially Lilly will integrate the new technology into its anti-amyloid and anti-tau research and development (R&D) programs.
Lilly’s wholly owned subsidiary Avid Radiopharmaceuticals will develop and validate the tracers.
Siemens Molecular Imaging business unit CEO James Williams said that the PET imaging is a valuable tool in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and the company is committed to help fighting the increasing threat to the aging population.
"Lilly’s continued development of these tau PET tracers combined with Siemens’ ongoing investment in innovative PET imaging solutions is another great example of how Siemens is collaborating with pharmaceutical companies in an effort to provide new hope to patients and their families," Williams added.
The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.