Radiopharm Theranostics’ 68Ga-RAD 301 shows promise in pancreatic cancer imaging

Radiopharm Theranostics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company, has announced compelling results from a study examining the effectiveness of 68Ga-Trivehexin (68Ga-RAD 301) for imaging αvβ6-integrin expression in pancreatic cancer. Published in Frontiers in Nuclear Medicine, the research involved a cohort of 44 patients, marking the largest study of its kind to date. This advancement addresses critical challenges in imaging pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), a malignancy notorious for poor detection rates and aggressive progression.

The findings demonstrate that RAD 301, a peptide-based imaging agent, enables precise visualisation of primary tumours and metastases across multiple sites, including the liver, lungs, and bones, with a high tumour-to-background ratio. The study’s results suggest that the agent is not only effective but also safe, with no adverse events reported. This promising data comes amidst Radiopharm’s ongoing Phase I imaging trial at Montefiore Medical Center, which further investigates RAD 301’s safety and dosimetry.

Meeting unmet medical needs in PDAC

Pancreatic cancer, particularly PDAC, poses significant challenges in early diagnosis due to the limitations of current imaging technologies. Riccardo Canevari, CEO and Managing Director of Radiopharm Theranostics, noted that these findings underscore RAD 301’s potential to improve the sensitivity and selectivity of pancreatic cancer detection, ultimately enhancing patient management and outcomes.

The αvβ6-integrin receptor, targeted by RAD 301, plays a critical role in tumour invasion and metastasis, particularly in pancreatic and head-and-neck squamous carcinomas. As such, it represents a high-value target for diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. The U.S. FDA’s designation of RAD 301 as an Orphan Drug in 2023 further validates its potential in addressing this critical healthcare gap.

Radiopharm’s diversified oncology pipeline

Radiopharm Theranostics has built a robust pipeline comprising six platform technologies, spanning peptides, small molecules, and monoclonal antibodies. These innovations target various solid tumours, including breast, kidney, and brain cancers, positioning the company as a frontrunner in radiopharmaceutical development. The ongoing trials aim to establish first-to-market or best-in-class therapies, reinforcing Radiopharm’s commitment to addressing high unmet medical needs in oncology.

Expert insights and market potential

The publication of these results, along with the ongoing clinical trials, highlights a significant step forward in the integration of targeted radiopharmaceuticals into cancer care. Experts believe that the clinical adoption of such targeted imaging agents could revolutionise diagnostic precision and treatment planning, especially in cancers like PDAC with limited diagnostic options.

As Radiopharm continues its research, investor sentiment remains optimistic. The company’s strategic focus on innovation and unmet medical needs positions it well for future growth, with RAD 301 as a flagship example of its potential to transform cancer imaging and therapy.