Advancing Cancer Therapy: Stony Brook University’s Breakthrough
Stony Brook University researchers have made significant strides in the field of cancer therapy with a groundbreaking new method for image-guided radionuclide therapy. This innovative approach, developed by Jacob L. Houghton, PhD, and Vilma I.J. Jallinoja, PhD, at the Stony Brook Cancer Center, shows great promise in targeting and killing cancer cells while minimizing adverse effects.
Jacob L Houghton, PhD, in his Stony Brook Cancer Center laboratory.
The traditional image-guided radionuclide therapy has been known to cause significant off-target radiation toxicity. However, the new two-step process introduced by the Stony Brook researchers involves specially-modified antibodies followed by a radioligand designed to bind specifically to the modified antibody. This method has shown a remarkable ability to reduce adverse effects while effectively targeting cancerous tumors.
The success of this technology has led to an exclusive licensing agreement with Perspective Therapeutics, Inc., a leading company in the field headquartered in Seattle, WA. The agreement, facilitated by the Research Foundation for State University of New York, marks a significant step towards the widespread use of this novel therapy.
Overcoming Challenges in Cancer Treatment
The platform developed by Houghton and Jallinoja addresses the challenges associated with traditional radionuclide therapy. By utilizing a small molecule labeled with a therapeutic radionuclide and a modified monoclonal antibody, the researchers have achieved a balance between efficacy and safety in cancer treatment.
A visual representation of radionuclide therapy
The pre-targeting radionuclide approach involves administering a modified antibody to target the tumor, followed by the radioligand carrying the radionuclide to the tumor. This precise targeting mechanism ensures minimal interaction with healthy tissues, enhancing the therapeutic effect.
Future Implications and Collaborations
Perspective Therapeutics aims to redefine radiation therapy by leveraging the precision of monoclonal antibodies and the versatility of small molecules. Thijs Spoor, the CEO of Perspective Therapeutics, emphasizes the company’s commitment to delivering safe and effective radiotherapies to patients.
The partnership between Stony Brook University and Perspective Therapeutics holds great promise for advancing cancer treatment. Sean Boykevisch, PhD, Director of the Intellectual Property Partners at Stony Brook, highlights the potential of the CB7-Adma pre-targeting platform to improve clinical outcomes across various cancer indications.
Pioneering Radiopharmaceutical Development
Perspective Therapeutics specializes in radiopharmaceutical development, focusing on delivering radiation specifically to cancer cells using specialized targeting peptides. Their innovative approach, combining powerful radiation delivery with imaging diagnostics, aims to enhance treatment efficacy while minimizing toxicity.
This collaboration signifies a significant step towards the future of cancer therapy, where precision and effectiveness converge to benefit patients worldwide.
