Radiopharmaceutical Development
Prof. Dr. Matthias Eder
The division of Radiopharmaceutical Development at the German Cancer Consortium (DKTK) in Freiburg focuses on exploring innovative approaches in radiopharmaceuticals. The goal is to advance cancer diagnosis and treatment through integrating theranostics, advanced biotechnological methods, and clinical translation of new therapies.
Theranostics combines diagnostic and therapeutic uses of radioactive isotopes to more accurately identify and treat tumors. By developing radiopharmaceuticals that can both diagnose and deliver targeted radionuclides, this approach contributes to personalized medicine. This dual application has the potential to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce side effects by tailoring therapies to the specific characteristics of each patient’s tumor.
A particular interest investigates the potential of bicyclic peptides as radiopharmaceuticals. These peptides represent high binding affinity and specificity to targets on tumor cells. Their bicyclic structure may offer enhanced stability and improved pharmacokinetic properties, making them promising candidates for both diagnostic imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy.
To identify new radiopharmaceutical candidates, biotechnological methods such as cDNA display are employed. This technique allows for the screening of extensive peptide libraries to find molecules that specifically bind to tumor antigens. By combining the strengths of several display systems, cDNA display facilitates the identification of promising compounds for further development.
A significant goal involves the clinical translation of new theranostic approaches. This process includes conducting preclinical validation, ensuring clinical production, and performing first clinical trials to assess the safety and efficacy of new radiopharmaceuticals. Collaboration with clinical partners and integration into the DKTK network are key to facilitating the transition of innovative therapies from the laboratory to clinical application.
Efforts in Radiopharmaceutical Development at DKTK Freiburg focus on contributing to the field of targeted cancer therapy. By combining theranostics, peptide-based radiopharmaceuticals, and advanced biotechnological methods with an emphasis on clinical translation, there is a strong commitment to supporting the development of effective and safe treatment options for cancer patients.
Future projects and goals
Future projects of the division of Radiopharmaceutical Development at DKTK Freiburg aim to advance and clinically apply innovative theranostics. A primary objective is to improve the binding affinity and stability of bicyclic peptides to enhance their effectiveness in diagnosis and therapy.
Plans include identifying new tumor antigens as targets for radiopharmaceuticals and extending the bicyclic peptide platform to novel targets. Utilizing cDNA display and other biotechnological methods is intended to facilitate the discovery of new radiopharmaceutical candidates.
Another goal is to conduct preclinical and clinical studies to ensure the safety and efficacy of developed radiopharmaceuticals. Collaborations with clinical partners and leveraging the DKTK network will be important to translate promising developments into clinical practice.
These projects are designed to contribute to personalized cancer therapy and potentially provide new treatment options for patients.
Prof. Dr. Matthias Eder
Head of department- partner site Freiburg
Universität Freiburg Faculty of Medicie
Department of Nuclear Medicine