Siemens and M. D. Anderson Cancer Center Expand Molecular Imaging Research Collaboration.

Extension of Existing Agreement Establishes Joint Venture in the Development of Molecular Biomarkers

MALVERN, Pa. -- Siemens Medical Solutions has expanded its molecular imaging research collaboration with The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center with the establishment of a preclinical research center dedicated to the development of new, targeted biomarkers that may help detect cancers earlier, better visualize cancers at the molecular level, and provide more effective, tailored therapies. The center will be located on the M. D. Anderson campus in Houston at the same site as the cyclotron-equipped radiopharmacy jointly operated by M. D. Anderson and PETNET([R]) Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Siemens Medical Solutions.

Researchers from Siemens and M. D. Anderson will work together at the center to develop novel radiolabeled imaging agents that visualize molecular-genetic targets, facilitating the translation of laboratory findings into clinical imaging applications and helping researchers study the effects of new drugs and other cancer treatments. As part of the agreement, researchers at M. D. Anderson will perform preclinical testing of Siemens' proprietary and licensed compounds, as well as participate in Siemens' clinical trials. Siemens will have certain rights to license imaging agents developed through the research.

"Expanding our research collaboration with M. D. Anderson enables us to combine the academic intellect of some of the world's leading cancer researchers with Siemens' molecular imaging technologies and expertise to develop more specific biomarkers," said Michael Reitermann, president, Molecular Imaging Division, Siemens Medical Solutions. "Siemens' preclinical solutions are designed to help facilitate leading-edge research and accelerate the drug development process by empowering researchers to identify specific biological processes, monitor the efficacy of compounds, and measure disease progression over time."

As part of the collaboration at M. D. Anderson, Siemens is providing research scientists and radiochemical equipment dedicated to preclinical imaging for the laboratory, including Siemens' Inveon[TM] platform, a multimodality imaging solution that allows researchers to utilize a combination of preclinical hybrid imaging systems and preclinical analysis applications. The system enables Positron Emission Tomography (PET), Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT), and CT data acquisition to be done separately or simultaneously. The Inveon's high PET resolution and sensitivity will help researchers during preclinical studies to detect early functional and metabolic changes in tumors, including epidermal growth factor receptor expression, in response to targeted therapies.

"The research collaboration is a true joint venture," said Juri G. Gelovani, M.D., Ph.D., chairman, Department of Experimental Imaging, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. "Our goal is to help transition preclinical studies of newly developed compounds from the lab through clinic trials to fill in the gaps of the diagnostic imaging field and develop more effective molecular therapies."

Molecular imaging biomarkers - imaging agents that characterize biological processes and disease - enable the biological mechanisms of disease to be identified and understood. Results may help physicians determine personalized therapies for patients by pinpointing the active pathways in the disease progression.

Siemens is the world's leading producer and distributor of PET tracers. PETNET, Siemens' distribution channel for biomarkers, has the largest U.S. network of cyclotron-equipped radiopharmacies, reaching as many as 99 percent of hospitals and imaging centers in the U.S.

About Siemens Medical Solutions

Siemens Medical Solutions of Siemens AG (NYSE:SI) is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is known for bringing together innovative medical technologies, healthcare information systems, management consulting, and support services, to help customers achieve tangible, sustainable, clinical and financial outcomes. Recent acquisitions in the area of in-vitro diagnostics - such as Diagnostic Products Corporation and Bayer Diagnostics - mark a significant milestone for Siemens as it becomes the first full service diagnostics company. Employing more than 41,000 people worldwide and operating in over 130 countries, Siemens Medical Solutions reported sales of 8.23 billion EUR, orders of 9.33 billion EUR and group profit of 1.06 billion EUR for fiscal 2006 (Sept. 30). Further information can be found by visiting www.siemens.com/medical.