Validation and supervision of in house synthesis methodology for the application of the radiopharmaceutical Pentixafor for theranostic of neoplasms

• Grant number: 25/01875-8
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Post-Doctoral
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Celso Darío Ramos
• Grantee: Adrhyann Jullyanne de Sousa Portilho
• Host Institution: Centro de Hematologia e Hemoterapia (HEMOCENTRO). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/10265-8 - Cancer Theranostics Innovation Center (CancerThera), AP.CEPID

Abstract

This postdoctoral research aims to evaluate various radiopharmaceuticals for cancer diagnosis and treatment. It will focus on validating and supervising an in-house synthesis methodology for the radiopharmaceuticals Pentixafor and PSMA labeled with Gallium-68, Lutetium-177, and possible other radioisotopes, for theranostic applications in oncology. The study aims to optimize the radiolabeling process, validate quality control protocols, and assess the stability, and serum protein binding of the radiolabeled compounds. The synthesis will follow automated procedures, ensuring reproducibility and adherence to international standards. Quality control assessments, including radionuclide and radiochemical purity, in vitro and serum stability, and biodistribution studies, will be conducted to confirm the safety and efficacy of the final product. Additionally, clinical protocols will be developed in collaboration with nuclear medicine physicians, oncologists and hematologists for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases such as multiple myeloma and other malignancies. A whole-body PET/CT imaging study will be performed to evaluate biodistribution, and patients with high CXCR4 or PSMA expression will be considered for compassionate-use treatment. Dosimetry studies will guide therapeutic administration, ensuring optimal targeting while minimizing toxicity. This research seeks to advance the clinical application of CXCR4 a-targeted imaging and therapy, providing new opportunities for personalized oncology treatment and contributing to the training of professionals in radiopharmacy and nuclear medicine.