Learn about the benefits of radioligand therapy (RLT), the science behind this precision-medicine treatment, and how Novartis is ensuring seamless RLT delivery to patients around the world.
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RLT has the potential to provide several benefits over traditional cancer treatments.
01
Radioligands can be used for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic applications, enabling a “see it, treat it” approach to cancer care.1a
Radioligands can be used for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic applications, enabling a “see it, treat it” approach to cancer care.1a
02
The high specificity for markers expressed on the surface of cancer cells helps to reduce the impact on healthy tissue, potentially leading to fewer side effects and low risk of long-term complications.1b 2a
The high specificity for markers expressed on the surface of cancer cells helps to reduce the impact on healthy tissue, potentially leading to fewer side effects and low risk of long-term complications.1b 2a
03
By precisely targeting tumor cells, RLT has the potential to significantly improve tumor control and patient survival rates.3 4
By precisely targeting tumor cells, RLT has the potential to significantly improve tumor control and patient survival rates.3 4
The science
RLT is a precision-medicine approach that recognizes and directly treats disease, with a particular focus on advanced cancers.
By harnessing the power of radioactive atoms, RLT is able to deliver radiation to target cells anywhere in the body.2b 5a
A specific molecule or protein that is abundant on the surface of cancer cells is identified. This could be a receptor, enzyme, or other molecular target that is characteristic of the cancer type being treated.2c
In the case of prostate cancer, for example, the prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is often targeted.1c 6a
Radioligands are molecules that include a ligand (a molecule that binds to a specific site) and a radionuclide (a radioactive isotope).1d 6b
Radioligands selectively target tumor cells by utilizing the specific binding properties of the ligand component. The ligands are designed to bind exclusively to receptors or antigens present on the surface of cancer cells.1e 6c
Radioligand imaging involves using radioligands to visualize biological processes within the body. This technique allows healthcare professionals to obtain detailed diagnostic information by highlighting specific tissues or cells, such as cancerous tumors. The radioligands emit signals that can be detected by imaging devices, providing clear and precise images of the targeted areas.5b 7 8 9
RLT works by using radioligands labeled with radioisotopes to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells. Once the radioligand binds to the target cells, the radionuclide emits radiation, which damages the DNA of the cancer cells, leading to their destruction.1f 6d
This targeted approach ensures that the maximum therapeutic effect is concentrated on the diseased cells, and reducing side effects from damaging healthy cells. 1g
With state-of-the-art science, Novartis continues to explore how RLT could potentially treat a broad range of cancers
Novartis is pioneering the production of RLT. We source scarce materials years before they are required, activate them in highly regulated sterile environments, and transfer the radiopharmaceuticals from production to patient.
Our vision for automated lines and expanded capacity will set new benchmarks in the manufacturing of radioligand therapies, ensuring we are prepared for the future of advanced cancer treatment.
Learn how we ensure every dose is delivered with precision from production to patient
DNA, deoxyribonucleic acid
RLT, radioligand therapy
PSMA, prostate-specific membrane antigen
1a 1b 1c 1d 1e 1f 1g Duan H, Iagaru A, Aparici CM. Radiotheranostics - Precision Medicine in Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging. Nanotheranostics. 2022;6(1):103-117. doi:10.7150/ntno.64141
2a 2b 2c George SJ, Samuel EJJ. Developments in 177Lu-based radiopharmaceutical therapy and dosimetry. Front Chem. 2023;11:1218670. doi:10:3389/fchem2023.1218673
3 Sartor O, de Bono J, Chi KN, et al; VISION Investigators. Lutetium-177-PSMA-617 for Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer. N Engl J Med. 2021;385(12):1091-1103. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2107322
4 Strosberg J, El-Haddad G, Wolin E, et al. Phase 3 trial of 177Lu-dotatate for midgut neuroendocrine tumours. N Engl J Med. 2017;376(2):125-135. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa1607427
5a 5b Sgouros G, Bodei L, McDevitt MR, Nedrow JR. Radiopharmaceutical therapy in cancer: clinical advances and challenges. Nat Rev Drug Discov. 2020;19(9):589-608. doi:10.1038/s41573-020-0073-9
6a 6b 6c 6d Yordanova A, Eppard E, Kürpig S, et al. Theranostics in nuclear medicine practice. Onco Targets Ther. 2017;10:4821-4828. doi:10.2147/OTT.S140671
7 van der Heide CD, Dalm SU. Radionuclide imaging and therapy directed towards the tumor microenvironment: a multi-cancer approach for personalized medicine. Eur J Nucl Med Mol Imaging. 2022;49(13):4616-4641. doi:10.1007/s00259-022-05870-1
8 Locametz (kit for the preparation of gallium Ga 68 gozetotide injection). Summary of product characteristics. Advanced Accelerator Applications (Italy) S.R.L. Accessed July 19, 2004. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/productinformation/locametz-epar-product-information_en.pdf
9 SomaKit TOC (edotreotide). Summary of product characteristics. Advanced Accelerator Applications (Italy) S.R.I. Accessed July 19, 2024. https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/productinformation/somakit-toc-epar-product-information_en.pdf
Our dedicated RLT specialist teams aim to streamline care coordination and alleviate uncertainty, ensuring you and your patients feel confident and supported every step of the way.