Know thy tumour: Biomarkers to improve treatment of molecular radionuclide therapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Nuclear Medicine
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Molecular radionuclide therapy (MRT) is a key treatment for various cancers.
• Identifying patient subgroups and understanding tumour responses can enhance MRT efficacy.
• Current MRT protocols lack well-defined dose-response relationships, especially for neuroendocrine neoplasms, due to biological heterogeneity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the role of biomarkers in personalizing Molecular Radionuclide Therapy (MRT).
• To establish dose-response relationships and minimum tumour dose thresholds using enrolment-based and radiobiology-based biomarkers.
• To improve MRT protocols and patient outcomes through enhanced biodosimetry and personalized therapies.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing enrolment-based biomarkers to identify tumour subtypes responsive to standard MRT.
• Developing dose-response relationships through image-based dosimetry within defined tumour subtypes.
• Investigating radiobiology-based biomarkers to assess tumour repair capacity and normal tissue dose limits.

Main Results:

• Biomarkers can stratify patients for improved MRT response.
• Image-based dosimetry and radiobiology-based biomarkers offer pathways to optimize MRT.
• Understanding tumour biology is essential for establishing dose-response relationships and personalized treatment.

Conclusions:

• Biomarkers are critical for refining Molecular Radionuclide Therapy (MRT) protocols.
• Personalized MRT, guided by biomarkers and advanced dosimetry, holds significant potential for improved cancer treatment.
• Further research into tumour biology and biomarker applications will enhance MRT efficacy and safety.