Two-step pre-targeted radionuclide therapy platform
The two-step pre-targeted radionuclide therapy platform is a cancer treatment technology that enhances safety by separating antibody-based tumor targeting from the delivery of radioactive therapeutic payloads. By using a host-guest (CB7-Adma) binding mechanism, the platform achieves high tumor specificity while minimizing radiation toxicity to healthy tissues. The technology has been exclusively licensed to Perspective Therapeutics for further clinical development.
Overview
The two-step pre-targeted radionuclide therapy platform is a novel cancer treatment and diagnostic technology developed by researchers at Stony Brook University. This platform addresses the limitation of traditional targeted radionuclide therapy, where radioactive payloads are directly attached to targeting monoclonal antibodies. Because these antibodies circulate in the body for extended periods, they can cause significant radiation toxicity to healthy tissues. The Stony Brook platform improves safety and efficacy by decoupling the targeting mechanism from the therapeutic radioactive component, allowing for precise tumor delivery with minimal off-target exposure.
Technical specifications
The platform utilizes a host-guest chemical interaction known as Cuburbit[7]uril-admantane (CB7-Adma). The two-step process functions as follows:
- First, a monoclonal antibody modified with a CB7 chemical entity is administered to the patient, where it specifically accumulates at the tumor site over time.
- Second, a radioligand—a small molecule carrying a radioactive isotope—is administered. This ligand includes an Adma group that binds with high affinity to the CB7 on the previously administered antibody.
- Because the radioligand is a small molecule, unbound portions clear from the patient's body rapidly, significantly reducing radiation exposure to non-cancerous organs. The platform is designed to be modular and demonstrates high in vivo stability and low immunogenicity.
Technology readiness level
The technology is currently in development (TRL 4-6). It has been validated through in vivo profiling in xenograft models and feasibility studies using radioactive isotopes. The platform has been exclusively licensed to Perspective Therapeutics for further clinical development and commercialization. Researchers have also received NIH grant funding to support the ongoing development and optimization of this pre-targeting program for oncology applications.
About Stony Brook University
Stony Brook University is a comprehensive public research university on Long Island and New York’s flagship, recognized as a Carnegie R1 institution and a member of the Association of American Universities. Companies connect through a research and development park with co-located incubators and growth programs, alongside convenient access to New York City and Long Island industry. Health system integration through Stony Brook Medicine enables clinical collaboration and translation, while a co-management role at nearby Brookhaven National Laboratory opens pathways to DOE user facilities and joint initiatives. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NIH, NSF, and DOE. A dedicated technology transfer office, Intellectual Property Partners, streamlines IP, licensing, and industry agreements, including flexible CLEAR‑IP options.
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