Novel cancer-targeting strategies for improved molecular radiotherapy

This project focuses on improving therapeutic effects of radiotherapy by:➢ Creating novel radioactive cancer-targeting molecules for molecular radiotherapy➢ Utilizing state-of-the-art precision cancer drugs to further potentiate effects of radiationMolecular radiotherapy has revolutionized the treatment of several malignancies in recent years.

However,treatment of solid tumors has been hampered by dose-limiting toxicities and tumor radioresistance.Our previous research suggests that p53 and HSP90 are major players in orchestrating radiation response andinterplay with the immune system.

Consequently, in the present project our molecular radiotherapy conjugates will be assessed alone and incombination with p53-stabilizers or HSP90-inhibitors.

Potential synergistic combination effects, therapeuticefficacy, potential toxicity, and impact on immune response will be assessed.

Model systems span fromimmortalized and primary cancer cells and tumor spheroids to tumor-bearing mice.Unraveling the role of p53 and HSP90 in radiation- and immune response will enable us to design optimalcombinations of radiopharmaceuticals and radiosensitizers.

This strategy may be beneficial for improvingtherapeutic effects, restoring efficacy in radio-resistant cancers, and reducing radiation exposure in normaltissues. If successful, outcomes could lead to transformed radiotherapy treatment and prolonged cancer patientsurvival.