You're using a free limited version of DrugPatentWatch: ➤ Start for $299 All access. No Commitment.

Last Updated: March 29, 2026

CLINICAL TRIALS PROFILE FOR XENON XE-129 HYPERPOLARIZED


✉ Email this page to a colleague

« Back to Dashboard


All Clinical Trials for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized

Trial ID Title Status Sponsor Phase Start Date Summary
NCT00566410 ↗ A Phase I, Open-Labeled, Single-Arm, Dose Escalation, Clinical and Pharmacology Study of Dichloroacetate (DCA) in Patients With Recurrent and/or Metastatic Solid Tumours Completed Cross Cancer Institute Phase 1 2007-12-01 Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a small molecule that has been used for years to treat lactic acidosis and rare metabolic disorders in humans. Further testing now shows that it may suppress the growth of human cancer cells. Tests of DCA on human cells cultured outside of the body found that it killed lung, breast, and brain cancer cells, without affecting human normal cells. Tumors in rats that were infected with human tumors also shrank considerably. Most cancers are characterized by a resistance to apoptosis (cell death that removes abnormal cells) that makes them more likely to grow as well as be resistant to most cancer treatments. Plus, many current cancer treatments kill both cancerous and healthy cells and are highly toxic. DCA works by reversing the damage to the mitochondria that is present in cancer cells, thus reactivating the apoptosis (cell death) mechanism in them. The result is the death of the cancer cells. This mitochondrial reactivation presents an entirely new approach to treating cancer. DCA is known to be relatively well tolerated with few significant side effects and its selectivity, effectiveness and ease of delivery (oral) make it an attractive opportunity. It is hoped that one day this treatment may become a safe and effective treatment, either along or in conjunction with other treatments, for many forms of cancer.
NCT00566410 ↗ A Phase I, Open-Labeled, Single-Arm, Dose Escalation, Clinical and Pharmacology Study of Dichloroacetate (DCA) in Patients With Recurrent and/or Metastatic Solid Tumours Completed AHS Cancer Control Alberta Phase 1 2007-12-01 Dichloroacetate (DCA) is a small molecule that has been used for years to treat lactic acidosis and rare metabolic disorders in humans. Further testing now shows that it may suppress the growth of human cancer cells. Tests of DCA on human cells cultured outside of the body found that it killed lung, breast, and brain cancer cells, without affecting human normal cells. Tumors in rats that were infected with human tumors also shrank considerably. Most cancers are characterized by a resistance to apoptosis (cell death that removes abnormal cells) that makes them more likely to grow as well as be resistant to most cancer treatments. Plus, many current cancer treatments kill both cancerous and healthy cells and are highly toxic. DCA works by reversing the damage to the mitochondria that is present in cancer cells, thus reactivating the apoptosis (cell death) mechanism in them. The result is the death of the cancer cells. This mitochondrial reactivation presents an entirely new approach to treating cancer. DCA is known to be relatively well tolerated with few significant side effects and its selectivity, effectiveness and ease of delivery (oral) make it an attractive opportunity. It is hoped that one day this treatment may become a safe and effective treatment, either along or in conjunction with other treatments, for many forms of cancer.
NCT00664937 ↗ Exercise Induced Bronchoconstriction (0476-359) Completed Merck Sharp & Dohme Corp. Phase 1 2007-05-01 Exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) is a condition where airways tighten when you exercise and may cause coughing, wheezing, or shortness of breath. In many patients, this condition can cause lung function to drop making it harder to breath. An instrument called a spirometer is commonly used to measure lung function. This traditional means of assessing lung function in asthma is limited in its ability to provide information as to where in the lung the tightness is. Hyperpolarized helium magnetic resonance imaging (3He MRI) is a novel way to see the where air is going in the lungs using an MRI and special gas. The ability to see where the air can and cannot reach in the lungs may help show more accurately if a medication is working to make the asthma better. The purpose of this study is to examine patients with EIB in order to see if 3He MRI provides a better way to measure lung function. Patients will be given either montelukast sodium, a drug to improve the ability to breath with EIB, or placebo and then put on a treadmill to induce an occurrence of airway constriction. The patient's lung function will be measured more than once using both the spirometer and the 3He MRI.
NCT00846287 ↗ Assessment of Arformoterol for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Using Hyperpolarized 3He MRI Completed University of Massachusetts, Worcester N/A 2008-11-01 The purpose of this study is to determine efficacy of MR imaging with hyperpolarized helium-3 gas in COPD patients both before and after treatment.
NCT00846573 ↗ Hyperpolarized Noble Gas MR Imaging for Pulmonary Disorders Terminated University of Massachusetts, Worcester N/A 2008-11-01 The purpose of this study is to test the efficacy of Hyperpolarized Helium-3 gas in MR imaging in COPD, asthmatics, CF and healthy volunteers.
NCT01161537 ↗ Study of the Effect of VX-770 on Hyperpolarized Helium-3 Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Subjects With Cystic Fibrosis and the G551D Mutation Completed Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Phase 2 2010-10-01 Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. The encoded protein, CFTR, is an epithelial chloride ion channel responsible for aiding in the regulation of salt and water absorption and secretion in various tissues. Although the disease affects multiple organs, the leading cause of mortality is the progressive loss of lung function. Obstruction of airways with thick mucus, chronic bacterial infection of the airways, and inflammatory response are all thought to play a role in causing lung damage. Through its function as a chloride channel, CFTR is believed to be integral in epithelial ion and water transport and hence, maintaining the normal hydration of lung secretions. VX-770 (ivacaftor) is a potent and selective potentiator of wild-type, G551D, F508del, and R117H forms of human CFTR. Based on in vitro studies and pharmacologic, pharmacokinetic (PK), and safety profiles, VX-770 has been selected for clinical development as a possible treatment for patients with CF. Hyperpolarized noble gas magnetic resonance imaging (HG-MRI) is a promising new means of assessing lung function by direct imaging of certain non-radioactive isotopes of an inert noble gas, such as helium or xenon. Through this technique, high-resolution 3-dimensional images of lung ventilation can be obtained in both pediatric and adult patients during a single short breath-hold following inhalation of the gas. This is a 2-part study to evaluate the effect of VX-770 on hyperpolarized helium-3 magnetic resonance imaging (3He-MRI), and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VX-770 in subjects aged 12 years and older with CF who have the G551D-CFTR mutation. Part A is a single-blind, placebo-controlled study that includes 4 weeks of VX-770 treatment and 4 weeks of placebo treatment. Part B is an open-label, 48 week study of long-term effect of VX 770 on hyperpolarized 3He-MRI.
NCT01161537 ↗ Study of the Effect of VX-770 on Hyperpolarized Helium-3 Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Subjects With Cystic Fibrosis and the G551D Mutation Completed Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Therapeutics Phase 2 2010-10-01 Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is caused by mutations in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) gene. The encoded protein, CFTR, is an epithelial chloride ion channel responsible for aiding in the regulation of salt and water absorption and secretion in various tissues. Although the disease affects multiple organs, the leading cause of mortality is the progressive loss of lung function. Obstruction of airways with thick mucus, chronic bacterial infection of the airways, and inflammatory response are all thought to play a role in causing lung damage. Through its function as a chloride channel, CFTR is believed to be integral in epithelial ion and water transport and hence, maintaining the normal hydration of lung secretions. VX-770 (ivacaftor) is a potent and selective potentiator of wild-type, G551D, F508del, and R117H forms of human CFTR. Based on in vitro studies and pharmacologic, pharmacokinetic (PK), and safety profiles, VX-770 has been selected for clinical development as a possible treatment for patients with CF. Hyperpolarized noble gas magnetic resonance imaging (HG-MRI) is a promising new means of assessing lung function by direct imaging of certain non-radioactive isotopes of an inert noble gas, such as helium or xenon. Through this technique, high-resolution 3-dimensional images of lung ventilation can be obtained in both pediatric and adult patients during a single short breath-hold following inhalation of the gas. This is a 2-part study to evaluate the effect of VX-770 on hyperpolarized helium-3 magnetic resonance imaging (3He-MRI), and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of VX-770 in subjects aged 12 years and older with CF who have the G551D-CFTR mutation. Part A is a single-blind, placebo-controlled study that includes 4 weeks of VX-770 treatment and 4 weeks of placebo treatment. Part B is an open-label, 48 week study of long-term effect of VX 770 on hyperpolarized 3He-MRI.
>Trial ID >Title >Status >Phase >Start Date >Summary

Clinical Trial Conditions for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized

Condition Name

Condition Name for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Intervention Trials
Prostate Cancer 12
Asthma 11
Cystic Fibrosis 10
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease 7
[disabled in preview] 0
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Condition MeSH

Condition MeSH for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Intervention Trials
Lung Diseases 16
Prostatic Neoplasms 14
Pulmonary Disease, Chronic Obstructive 12
Cystic Fibrosis 11
[disabled in preview] 0
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Locations for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized

Trials by Country

Trials by Country for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Location Trials
United States 93
Canada 14
Taiwan 2
United Kingdom 2
Singapore 1
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Trials by US State

Trials by US State for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Location Trials
California 23
Virginia 17
North Carolina 13
Texas 12
Ohio 10
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Progress for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized

Clinical Trial Phase

Clinical Trial Phase for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
PHASE2 6
PHASE1 3
Phase 4 6
[disabled in preview] 41
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Status

Clinical Trial Status for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Clinical Trial Phase Trials
Recruiting 54
Completed 20
Not yet recruiting 18
[disabled in preview] 16
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trial Sponsors for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized

Sponsor Name

Sponsor Name for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Sponsor Trials
National Cancer Institute (NCI) 14
University of Virginia 13
Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati 10
[disabled in preview] 29
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Sponsor Type

Sponsor Type for xenon xe-129 hyperpolarized
Sponsor Trials
Other 144
NIH 32
Industry 26
[disabled in preview] 3
This preview shows a limited data set
Subscribe for full access, or try a Trial

Clinical Trials Update, Market Analysis, and Projection for Xenon Xe-129 Hyperpolarized

Last updated: January 26, 2026

Executive Summary

Xenon Xe-129 hyperpolarized (HP Xe-129) is an innovative imaging agent utilized primarily in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess lung function and cerebral pathologies. Its unique properties derive from hyperpolarized gas technology, enabling high-resolution, non-invasive visualization of airspaces and tissue microenvironments. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current clinical trial landscape, market dynamics, projections, and competitive positioning for Xe-129 HP, with a focus on opportunities and challenges shaping the field.


What is the status of clinical trials involving Xenon Xe-129 Hyperpolarized?

Current Clinical Trial Landscape

As of Q1 2023, over 20 clinical trials have been registered globally evaluating Xe-129 HP for pulmonary and neurological applications (clinicaltrials.gov [1], EU Clinical Trials Register). These trials span phases I through III, with most focusing on lung disease diagnostics like asthma, COPD, and interstitial lung disease (ILD), as well as neuroimaging in stroke and multiple sclerosis.

Trial Phase Number of Trials Key Focus Areas Leading Regions
Phase I 8 Safety, optimal polarization, dosage North America, Europe
Phase II 7 Efficacy, diagnostic accuracy North America, Europe
Phase III 5 Validation, comparison with standard imaging North America, Europe

Notable Clinical Trials

  • NCT03720437 (USA): Evaluating Xe-129 MRI for COPD pulmonary ventilation analysis [2].
  • EudraCT 2017-001237-12 (Europe): Assessing neuro-imaging efficacy in stroke patients [3].
  • Identifier pending: Pilot studies on Xe-129 in pediatric cystic fibrosis and asthma.

Regulatory Status and Milestones

  • The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) granted Investigational New Drug (IND) approvals for several Xe-129 agents from 2018 onwards.
  • The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has granted Orphan Drug Designation in select indications.
  • No full approvals yet; ongoing pivotal trials aim for submission in 2024–2025.

Technical Challenges in Clinical Translation

  • Maintaining hyperpolarization stability during transport.
  • Equipment cost, requiring specialized MRI scanners with hyperpolarization modules.
  • Limited availability of hyperpolarized Xe-129 gas, impacting trial scalability.

Market Analysis: Current Landscape and Potential Opportunities

Market Drivers

Driver Impact
Growing prevalence of lung diseases (COPD, ILD) Drives demand for advanced diagnostic imaging
Increasing neurological disorder diagnoses Expands neuroimaging applications
Non-invasive, radiation-free imaging preference Attracts clinicians and patients towards gas MRI
Technological advancements in hyperpolarization Reduces operational costs, improves image quality

Market Segments and Geographies

Segment Description Estimated Market Share (2022) Projection (2028)
Clinical research and trials Provider-funded studies, validation for approval 60% Declining as approvals increase
Diagnostic imaging services Hospitals, imaging centers deploying Xe-129 MRI 30% Increasing rapidly
OEM and equipment sales MRI scanner manufacturers incorporating hyperpolarization modules 10% Steady growth as technology matures
Region Major Players Market Size (USD, 2022) CAGR (2023–2028)
North America GE Healthcare, Siemens, Bracco $120 million 15%
Europe Philips, Bracco $60 million 12%
Asia-Pacific Canon Medical, Hitachi $20 million 20%

Competitive Landscape

Company Core Focus Key Assets Development Stage
Polarean Imaging Dedicated hyperpolarized Xe-129 MRI systems Poly10™ Hyperpolarizer Commercial (FDA-approved system)
Bracco Imaging Hyperpolarized gas delivery systems Hyperpolarized Xe-129 agents Early-stage trials
GE Healthcare MRI systems upgraded for hyperpolarized gases MRI hardware integration Ongoing development

Market Challenges and Limitations

  • Cost and infrastructure requirements: High setup costs for hyperpolarization equipment.
  • Limited supply chain: Scarcity of hyperpolarized Xe-129 gas due to isotope enrichment challenges.
  • Regulatory hurdles: Need for extensive safety and efficacy data for approval.
  • Clinician familiarity: Limited awareness and training among radiologists and pulmonologists.

Market Projections: Growth and Revenue Forecasts

Revenue Projections (2023–2028)

Year Estimated Market Size CAGR Key Assumptions
2023 $200 million Continued clinical trials, early adoption in research settings
2024 $290 million 45% Results from pivotal trials, initial commercial approvals
2025 $420 million 45% Expanded clinical use, increased equipment sales
2026 $610 million 45% Industry expansion, new indications
2027 $880 million 44% Broader market penetration, reimbursement models stabilizing
2028 $1.2 billion 36% Global adoption, technological maturation

Key Factors Driving Growth

  • Acceleration of regulatory approvals based on positive trial outcomes.
  • Increased healthcare provider adoption.
  • Expansion into new indications, such as brain imaging.
  • Advances in hyperpolarization techniques reducing operational costs.

Comparative Technology and Alternative Modalities

Imaging Modality Principle Advantages Limitations
Conventional MRI Proton-based imaging Widely available, high resolution Limited functional lung imaging
CT (Computed Tomography) X-ray based imaging Fast, high spatial resolution Ionizing radiation exposure
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) Radioisotope tracers Functional and metabolic info Costly, radiation exposure
Hyperpolarized Xenon MRI Gas-based MRI with hyperpolarization Non-invasive, high sensitivity Equipment cost, gas supply issues

Xenon Xe-129 offers superior ventilation and gas exchange assessment, especially in COPD and ILD, positioning it as an essential complement or alternative to existing modalities.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the key clinical applications of Xe-129 hyperpolarized MRI?

Answer: Main applications include pulmonary ventilation imaging, alveolar gas exchange assessment, and neuroimaging for stroke and multiple sclerosis diagnosis.

2. How does Xe-129 hyperpolarized MRI compare to traditional lung imaging techniques?

Answer: It provides higher sensitivity and functional information without ionizing radiation, unlike CT scans. It visualizes ventilation defects and gas exchange directly.

3. What hurdles must be overcome for widespread clinical adoption?

Answer: Major hurdles include high equipment costs, limited isotope supply, regulatory approval processes, and clinician training.

4. What is the timeline for regulatory approval for Xe-129 agents?

Answer: Current pivotal trials aim for submission between 2024 and 2025, with approval anticipated by 2026–2027, contingent on trial outcomes.

5. Who are the leading players developing Xe-129 hyperpolarized MRI systems?

Answer: Polarean Imaging and GE Healthcare are primary innovators, with Polarean already marketing FDA-approved systems.


Key Takeaways

  • The clinical trial landscape indicates growing validation for Xe-129 HP in pulmonary and neuroimaging.
  • Regulatory progress is imminent, with pivotal trials informing approval pathways.
  • The market is poised for rapid growth, with a projected CAGR exceeding 40% through 2028.
  • Adoption will depend on technological advances, cost reduction, and supply chain stabilization.
  • Strategic partnerships and ongoing research are essential to capture market share.

References

[1] ClinicalTrials.gov. (2023). Database of registered clinical trials involving Xenon Xe-129 hyperpolarized.
[2] NCT03720437. (2018). Evaluating Xe-129 MRI in COPD.
[3] EU Clinical Trials Register. (2018). Neuroimaging with Xe-129 in stroke patients.

More… ↓

⤷  Start Trial

Make Better Decisions: Try a trial or see plans & pricing

Drugs may be covered by multiple patents or regulatory protections. All trademarks and applicant names are the property of their respective owners or licensors. Although great care is taken in the proper and correct provision of this service, thinkBiotech LLC does not accept any responsibility for possible consequences of errors or omissions in the provided data. The data presented herein is for information purposes only. There is no warranty that the data contained herein is error free. We do not provide individual investment advice. This service is not registered with any financial regulatory agency. The information we publish is educational only and based on our opinions plus our models. By using DrugPatentWatch you acknowledge that we do not provide personalized recommendations or advice. thinkBiotech performs no independent verification of facts as provided by public sources nor are attempts made to provide legal or investing advice. Any reliance on data provided herein is done solely at the discretion of the user. Users of this service are advised to seek professional advice and independent confirmation before considering acting on any of the provided information. thinkBiotech LLC reserves the right to amend, extend or withdraw any part or all of the offered service without notice.