Theranostics in Neuroendocrine Tumors: Updates and Emerging Technologies

Curr Probl Cancer. 2024 Oct:52:101129. doi: 10.1016/j.currproblcancer.2024.101129. Epub 2024 Sep 3.

Abstract

Advancements in somatostatin receptor (SSTR) targeted imaging and treatment of well-differentiated neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) have revolutionized the management of these tumors. This comprehensive review delves into the current practice, discussing the use of the various FDA-approved SSTR-agonist PET tracers and the predictive imaging biomarkers, and elaborating on Lu177-DOTATATE peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) including the evolving areas of post-therapy imaging practices, PRRT retreatment, and the potential role of dosimetry in optimizing patient treatments. The future directions sections highlight ongoing research on investigational PET imaging radiotracers, future prospects in alpha particle therapy, and combination therapy strategies.

Keywords: DOTATATE; NETs; dosimetry; somatostatin receptor; theranostics.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / diagnostic imaging
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / pathology
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / radiotherapy
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors* / therapy
  • Octreotide / analogs & derivatives
  • Octreotide / therapeutic use
  • Organometallic Compounds / therapeutic use
  • Positron-Emission Tomography / methods
  • Radiopharmaceuticals* / therapeutic use
  • Receptors, Somatostatin* / metabolism
  • Theranostic Nanomedicine / methods
  • Theranostic Nanomedicine / trends

Substances

  • Receptors, Somatostatin
  • Radiopharmaceuticals
  • Octreotide
  • lutetium Lu 177 dotatate
  • Organometallic Compounds