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Brain metastasis: An insight into novel molecular targets for theranostic approaches
Liliana Santos1, João Nuno Moreira2, Antero Abrunhosa3
1Institute for Nuclear Sciences Applied to Health (ICNAS) and Coimbra Institute for Biomedical Imaging and Translational Research (CIBIT), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal; Faculty of Medicine, Coimbra Institute for Clinical and Biomedical Research (iCBR), University of Coimbra, Coimbra 3000-548, Portugal.
Abstract:
Brain metastases (BrM) are common malignant lesions in the central nervous system, and pose a significant threat in advanced-stage malignancies due to delayed diagnosis and limited therapeutic options. Their distinct genomic profiles underscore the need for molecular profiling to tailor effective treatments. Recent advances in cancer biology have uncovered molecular drivers underlying tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. This, coupled with the advances in molecular imaging technology and radiotracer synthesis, has paved the way for the development of innovative radiopharmaceuticals with enhanced specificity and affinity for BrM specific targets. Despite the challenges posed by the blood-brain barrier to effective drug delivery, several radiolabeled compounds have shown promise in detecting and targeting BrM. This manuscript provides an overview of the recent advances in molecular biomarkers used in nuclear imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy in both clinical and preclinical settings. Additionally, it explores potential theranostic applications addressing the unique challenges posed by BrM.
Insights
Brain metastases (BrM) detection and treatment are advancing with new molecular imaging and radiopharmaceutical strategies. These innovations target specific BrM biomarkers, improving diagnosis and therapy despite the blood-brain barrier challenges.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Radiochemistry
- Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Brain metastases (BrM) are critical complications of advanced cancers, often diagnosed late with limited treatment options.
- Distinct genomic profiles of BrM necessitate molecular profiling for personalized treatment strategies.
- The blood-brain barrier presents a significant challenge for effective drug delivery to BrM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in molecular biomarkers for nuclear imaging of BrM.
- To explore targeted radionuclide therapies for BrM.
- To discuss potential theranostic applications for BrM.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on molecular biomarkers, radiopharmaceuticals, and imaging technologies for BrM.
- Analysis of clinical and preclinical data on radiolabeled compounds targeting BrM.
- Exploration of theranostic approaches for BrM management.
Main Results:
- Advances in molecular imaging and radiotracer synthesis enable the development of specific radiopharmaceuticals for BrM.
- Several radiolabeled compounds show promise in detecting and targeting BrM.
- Molecular profiling is crucial for tailoring effective BrM treatments.
Conclusions:
- Novel radiopharmaceuticals and imaging techniques offer improved detection and targeting of BrM.
- Targeted radionuclide therapy and theranostics hold significant potential for managing BrM.
- Continued research is vital to overcome the blood-brain barrier and enhance BrM treatment efficacy.
