In yet another pioneering study conducted at the Hoag Family Cancer Institute, researchers have achieved a significant advancement in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer. Utilizing a novel imaging technique and targeted therapy, this research opens new doors for patients battling advanced stages of this disease. The new study highlights the potential of SSTR2-targeted Dotatate PET/CT imaging and 225Ac-Dotatate therapy, providing hope for more effective and personalized treatments.
SSTR2-targeted Dotatate PET/CT Imaging helps doctors find specific cancer cells in the body by using a substance that attaches to these cells and makes them visible on a scan. SSTR2 stands for Somatostatin Receptor Type 2. It’s a kind of receptor found on the surface of some breast cancer cells. Dotatate is a special substance that can attach to SSTR2 receptors. It’s like a key that fits perfectly into a lock (the SSTR2 receptor).
225Ac-Dotatate Therapy uses a similar approach to deliver radiation directly to these cancer cells, killing them while minimizing damage to healthy cells. Here’s how it works: 225Ac stands for Actinium-225, a radioactive substance. When attached to Dotatate, it can deliver radiation directly to cancer cells. The treatment involves injecting 225Ac-Dotatate into the body. The Dotatate part attaches to the SSTR2 receptors on the cancer cells, just like in the imaging test. Once attached, the Actinium-225 delivers a targeted dose of radiation to the cancer cells, killing them or stopping their growth.
Gary A. Ulaner, M.D., Ph.D., F.A.C.N.M, James & Pamela Muzzy Endowed Chair in Molecular Imaging and Therapy and the director of Molecular Imaging and Therapy for the Hoag Family Cancer Institute, was the lead investigator in the study and research findings were published in this month’s Radiology, a peer-reviewed monthly journal published by the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA).
The study was conducted in three crucial phases:
Preclinical Testing: Researchers first tested breast cancer tissue samples to see if they expressed somatostatin receptor type 2 (SSTR2). They found that 51% of estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) samples had significant SSTR2 expression. This was a promising indicator for further research.
Imaging Trial: Building on the preclinical findings, a clinical trial was carried out with 30 women diagnosed with ER+ metastatic breast cancer. These participants underwent Dotatate PET/CT imaging, which targets SSTR2. The trial revealed that 30% of these patients had high levels of SSTR2 expression, making them ideal candidates for targeted therapy.
Innovative Treatment: A single participant with advanced ER+ metastatic breast cancer received 225Ac-Dotatate therapy. The results were extraordinary, showing a near-complete response and significant reduction in cancer activity. This patient had previously undergone multiple lines of therapy without success, highlighting the potential effectiveness of this new approach.
As the lead investigator, Dr. Ulaner emphasized the transformative potential of this research. “Our findings represent a groundbreaking step in the treatment of metastatic breast cancer,” he said. “By targeting the SSTR2 receptor, we can now identify and treat a specific subset of breast cancer patients more accurately and effectively. This precision medicine approach offers new hope to patients who have exhausted other treatment options.”
The Hoag Family Cancer Institute is at the forefront of cancer research and treatment. This latest study underscores their commitment to innovative and patient-centered care.
“The ability to use SSTR2-targeted imaging and therapy is a testament to the cutting-edge research and dedication at Hoag. We are committed to exploring every possible avenue to improve the lives of our patients,” Dr. Ulaner said. “This research marks a significant milestone in the journey towards more effective cancer treatments. The successful use of SSTR2-targeted therapy not only offers a new treatment option for metastatic breast cancer but also paves the way for further innovations in cancer care.”
Dr. Ulaner adds, “The promising results from our study encourage us to continue our research and expand these treatments to benefit more patients. At Hoag, we are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in cancer treatment and ensuring that our patients receive the best care available.”
This research offers new avenues of development of breast cancer treatments and underscores the importance of continued innovation in cancer care at the Hoag Family Cancer Institute.
