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Pan-Amyloid Imaging Research Advances with Major Bayer Acquisition

A major global acquisition by Bayer is shining a spotlight on decades of pioneering molecular imaging research by the Amyloidosis and Cancer Theranostics Program (ACTP), led by Jonathan S. Wall, PhD, Distinguished Professor and Assistant Dean for Research at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center College of Medicine, Knoxville. On January 12, 2026, Bayer announced it signed agreements to acquire two investigational pan-amyloid imaging agents developed by the ACTP, AT-01 (iodine ¹²⁴I-evuzamitide) and AT-05, from Attralus, Inc., strengthening its expansion into molecular imaging and precision cardiology.

The two radiotracers are designed to improve the early and accurate diagnosis of cardiac amyloidosis, a frequently underdiagnosed and life-threatening condition. AT-01, a PET tracer currently in a pivotal Phase III clinical trial, is the first amyloid imaging agent to receive U.S. FDA Breakthrough Therapy Designation for cardiac amyloidosis and also holds orphan drug designation in both the U.S. and EU. AT-05, a SPECT tracer in Phase I development at UT Medical Center, offers a complementary diagnostic option that could broaden access to amyloidosis imaging worldwide.

Both agents are built on a proprietary pan-amyloid binding peptide developed by Dr. Wall and his research team nearly two decades ago. Dr. Wall recently presented clinical data on these tracers at ASNC2025, highlighting their ability to detect multiple amyloid types, not just transthyretin amyloidosis, across major organs including the heart, kidneys, liver, and spleen. These advances represent a significant shift in amyloidosis imaging, with the potential to enable earlier diagnosis, improve disease monitoring, and guide emerging therapies.

Bayer’s acquisition is a powerful example of research translating into real-world impact. What began in Dr. Wall’s lab is now moving into late-stage clinical development with global potential. With Bayer’s expertise in radiology, nuclear medicine infrastructure, and cardiovascular precision medicine, the tracers are positioned to reach clinicians and patients at scale, addressing a critical unmet need in cardiac care.

"The acquisition of our two pan-amyloid imaging agents for diagnosing cardiac amyloidosis is an incredible milestone and something that our research team should be very proud of. The interest from a major pharmaceutical company will ensure that these imaging agents, which could transform the diagnosis of patients with these devastating diseases, will make the transition from the lab to clinical use," said Dr. Wall.

Posted February 16, 2026