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Translational Brain Mapping at the University of Rochester Medical Center: Preserving the Mind Through Personalized Brain Mapping
Published on: August 12, 2019
Translating the theranostic concept to neuro-oncology: disrupting barriers
Nathalie L Albert1, Emilie Le Rhun2, Giuseppe Minniti3
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University Hospital, Ludwig Maximilians University Munich, Munich, Germany.
Abstract:
Theranostics integrate molecular imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy for personalised cancer therapy. Theranostic treatments have shown meaningful efficacy in randomised clinical trials and are approved for clinical use in prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumours. Brain tumours represent an unmet clinical need and theranostics might offer effective treatment options, although specific issues need to be considered for clinical development. In this Policy Review, we discuss opportunities and challenges of developing targeted radionuclide therapies for the treatment of brain tumours including glioma, meningioma, and brain metastasis. The rational choice of molecular treatment targets is highlighted, including the potential relevance of different types of targeted radionuclide therapeutics, and the role of the blood-brain barrier and blood-tumour barrier. Furthermore, we discuss considerations for effective clinical trial design and conduct, as well as logistical and regulatory challenges for implementation of radionuclide therapies into neuro-oncological practice. Rational development will foster successful translation of the theranostic concept to brain tumours.
Insights
Theranostics, combining imaging and radionuclide therapy, show promise for brain tumors. Addressing challenges in target selection and clinical trials is key for effective brain cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Molecular Imaging
Background:
- Theranostics integrate molecular imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy for personalized cancer treatment.
- Approved theranostic applications exist for prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors.
- Brain tumors represent a significant unmet clinical need for advanced therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review opportunities and challenges in developing targeted radionuclide therapies for brain tumors.
- To highlight molecular targets and therapeutic approaches for brain tumor theranostics.
- To discuss clinical trial design, logistical, and regulatory aspects for neuro-oncology.
Main Methods:
- Policy review of current theranostic applications and neuro-oncology challenges.
- Analysis of molecular targets relevant to glioma, meningioma, and brain metastases.
- Discussion of the blood-brain barrier and blood-tumor barrier implications.
Main Results:
- Theranostics offer potential for treating brain tumors, including glioma, meningioma, and brain metastases.
- Rational selection of molecular targets and radionuclide therapeutics is crucial.
- Overcoming the blood-brain barrier and optimizing clinical trials are key considerations.
Conclusions:
- Targeted radionuclide therapies hold promise for brain tumor treatment.
- Careful consideration of molecular targets, barriers, and trial design is essential for successful translation.
- Rational development is critical for implementing theranostics in neuro-oncology.
