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Algeta publish results of new thorium-227 mAb conjugate |
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24 Mar 2006 |
Algeta demonstrates radioimmunotherapeutic potential of a tumor-targeting monoclonal antibody labeled with the alpha-emitting nuclide Thorium-227
OSLO, Norway | Mar 23, 2006 | Algeta ASA, a therapeutics company dedicated to the development of novel anticancer agents based on alpha-particle emitting radionuclides, is pleased to announce the publication of its study demonstrating the potential of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) labeled with alpha-emitting radionuclides for the targeting and treatment of cancer. Through the application of Algeta’s proprietary TH-1 Therapeutic Antibody Enhancement technology, it has been shown that in vivo a Thorium-227 conjugate of the chimeric mAb rituximab retains immunoreactivity against human CD20-positive cells and its biodistribution properties are compatible with therapeutic mAbs developed for oncology indications.
While these initial observations, published in the February 2006 issue of the journal Nuclear Medicine and Biology (Ref.1), have been made with a mAb already indicated for relapsed or refractory non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Algeta anticipates this study having broader implications for mAb-alpha emitter conjugates in a therapeutic setting. In particular, given the known affinity of selected alpha-emitting nuclides for skeletal tissues to which a number of solid tumors metastasize, mAb-directed approaches would appear to have therapeutic potential even in advanced stages of cancer.
Commenting on these recent developments, Dr Thomas Ramdahl, CEO of Algeta said: “We have demonstrated that an established therapeutic mAb may be modified by alpha-emitter technology to give a product with intriguing in vivo properties. While antibody-based approaches to cancer treatment are achieving notable clinical and commercial success, the opportunity for novel therapeutic modalities remains significant. Algeta considers alpha-emitter technology to play an important part in the future of targeted cancer therapeutics.”
In view of these results, Algeta is now seeking partner companies committed to the development and commercialization of alpha-particle emitting mAbs as products for the treatment of primary and advanced cancer conditions.
Reference
1. Dahle, J. et al. Nuclear Medicine and Biology 33 (2006), 271-279
A copy of the published article and further information on the TH-1 Therapeutic Antibody Enhancement technology can be obtained at Algeta’s Media Center/Press Releases at www.algeta.com, or by contacting Algeta or Citigate Dewe Rogerson as detailed below.
SOURCE: Algeta ASA |
