VMT-𝛼-NET:
A Theranostic for the Treatment and Diagnosis of Neuroendocrine Tumors
VMT-𝛼-NET is in development for the treatment and diagnosis of somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2). VMT-𝛼-NET is expected to enter a Phase 1 imaging study in Q3, 2021 that will be conducted at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics.
KEY FACTS
Targeting somatostatin receptor type 2 (SSTR2)
Study to be conducted at the University of Iowa
Opportunity for Orphan Drug Designations
DIAGNOSTIC
As a diagnostic, we link Pb-203, a radioactive imaging agent, to our SSTR2-targeting peptide. Through the use of imaging scans, we are able to characterize the tumor and confirm the patient’s cancer expresses SSTR2. This confirms the patient may be a candidate for treatment.
THERAPEUTIC
As a therapeutic, we link Pb-212, our alpha-particle radioactive isotope, to the same SSTR2 targeting peptide which has been shown to bind to the cancerous cell, to treat and potentially kill the tumor. This targeted theranostic approach offers the ability to understand which patients may respond to our therapy and potentially improve efficacy while minimizing the toxicity associated with many other types of cancer treatments.
Gastroenteropancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (GEP-NETs)
Malignancies of neuroendocrine cells, which are specialized cells that secrete hormones and other bioactive substances which are found throughout the body.
~12K new diagnoses annually1
~175,000 people are living with this diagnosis1
Treatment depends on the type of tumor. Some approaches may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy
1: cancer.org
How VMT-𝛼-NET Works