Affibody-based targeting agent 131I-YZHER2: V2 for HER2-positive ovarian cancer xenografts

Hongyu Hu1, Xianwen Hu1, Fangming Li1

  • 1Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital of Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi, China.

Frontiers in Medicine
|July 24, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Iodine-131 labeled HER2 affibodies show promise for targeted radionuclide therapy in HER2-positive ovarian cancer. This study demonstrates their potential for tumor uptake, retention, and therapeutic efficacy in preclinical models.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Nuclear Medicine
  • Biotechnology

Background:

  • Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) overexpression is common in various cancers, including ovarian carcinoma.
  • HER2 affibodies labeled with radioactive isotopes offer potential for targeted diagnosis and therapy.
  • This research focuses on developing Iodine-131 labeled HER2 affibodies for targeted radionuclide therapy (TRNT) in HER2-positive ovarian cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and evaluate 131I-labeled HER2 affibody (131I-YZHER2: V2) as a TRNT agent for HER2-positive ovarian cancer.
  • To assess the radiochemical properties, pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, and therapeutic efficacy of 131I-YZHER2: V2 in preclinical models.

Main Methods:

  • The YZHER2: V2 affibody targeting HER2 was synthesized and labeled with 131I using the chloramine T method.
  • Radiochemical purity, stability, and affinity of 131I-YZHER2: V2 were evaluated in vitro.
  • Pharmacokinetics, tumor uptake, biodistribution, and therapeutic effects were assessed in HER2-positive (SKOV-3) and HER2-negative (ID-8) mouse models.

Main Results:

  • 131I-YZHER2: V2 was prepared with high yield (96.06% ± 1.26%) and good stability.
  • The tracer demonstrated rapid uptake and retention in HER2-positive tumors, with favorable biodistribution and excretion pathways.
  • Treatment with 131I-YZHER2: V2 resulted in reduced tumor growth and prolonged survival in mice with HER2-positive tumors.

Conclusions:

  • 131I-YZHER2: V2 exhibits excellent properties for targeted radionuclide therapy.
  • This agent shows significant potential as a novel TRNT for HER2-positive ovarian cancer.
  • Further exploration of 131I-YZHER2: V2 for clinical application is warranted.