This project aims to utilize advanced particle accelerator technology to produce and explore rare isotopes for cancer diagnosis and therapy. By leveraging unique infrastructure at TRIUMF (Vancouver, BC) the project aims to enhance the availability of therapeutic radioisotopes for clinical research.
The research will focus on developing new systems for isotope production, designing attachment methods for targeting molecules, creating specific targeting molecules for cancer cells, supporting clinical translation, and evaluating the social acceptability and economic impacts of individualized therapy in Canada.
Research Aims
Aim 1: Producing Rare Radioisotopes
- Objective: Develop methods to produce limited yet promising isotopes like actinium-225 and lead-212/lead-203 for clinical studies. Expand production capacities for isotopes like terbium (161Tb, 155Tb, 152Tb, 149Tb) for imaging/therapy.
- Approach: Utilize TRIUMF’s infrastructure and expertise to establish a supply chain for these isotopes, promoting their clinical application.
Aim 2: Developing Attachment Methods
- Objective: Design tailored systems (known as bifunctional chelators; BFCs) for attaching radioactive atoms to targeted molecules, ensuring stability and efficient delivery to tumor sites.
- Approach: Collaborate across multiple universities to create BFCs ideal for radiometal-chelate pairing and develop novel probes for imaging and therapy using PET isotope 18F.
Aim 3: Targeting Cancer Cells
- Objective: Develop new molecules targeting specific cancer cell proteins to enhance drug delivery while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
- Approach: Employ different approaches to target cancer cells, including compounds targeting cancer cell receptors and disruptive isotopes in the tumor microenvironment.
Aim 4: Clinical Translation
- Objective: Transition promising radiotracers into early-phase clinical trials for metastatic cancers, conducting safety assessments and radiation dosimetry studies.
- Approach: Plan and execute clinical trials for new radiopharmaceutical agents, aiming for commercial implementation.
Aim 5: Social Acceptability and Health Economics
- Objective: Assess patient acceptability and the economic impact of individualized therapy through qualitative and quantitative studies.
- Approach: Analyze patient preferences and conduct cost-effectiveness analyses to evaluate the societal impact of these approaches.
Gender-based Analysis Plus (GBA+):
- Ensure diverse representation in experiments, clinical trials, and qualitative studies concerning gender-neutral cancers.
- Implement GBA+ practices in governance and management to promote equitable opportunities for underrepresented groups in the project.
This research aims to advance cancer therapy by leveraging advanced technology, developing specific targeting methods, and considering societal impacts and inclusivity in its approach.