IMI International Medical Innovations Inc has signed a collaborative research agreement with AtheroGenics Inc. IMI's cardiovascular risk assessment test, Cholesterol 1,2,3, will be added to AtheroGenics' international ARISE trial, providing IMI with valuable primary- event data and broad exposure to leading cardiac centers around the world.

The ARISE study (Aggressive Reduction of Inflammation Stops Events) will be conducted in over 180 cardiac centers throughout the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and South Africa. ARISE is a Phase III study designed to evaluate the impact of AGI-1067, a novel oral anti-inflammatory agent developed by AtheroGenics to target atherosclerosis. The study will enroll 4,000 patients who will be followed for an average of 18 months or until a minimum of 1,160 primary events have occurred, such as heart attack or stroke.

"The ARISE trial is a door-opener for IMI in many ways," said Dr. Brent Norton, IMI President and CEO. "Most importantly, 180 leading cardiologists and cardiac centers around the world will gain valuable first-hand experience with Cholesterol 1,2,3. Joining the ARISE study is consistent with our strategy of leveraging large trials led by other corporate and government organizations."