Characterization of a new therapeutic strategy to target the vulnerabilities of small-cell lung cancer. – smallTARGET

Small cell lung cancer is a rare disease that remains untreated. We have recently characterised a protein whose expression appears to be highly specific to this tumor subtype. In this project, we propose to create a new molecule that would combine an antibody (or its fragments) directed against this target, coupled with a radioelement. Depending on the nature of the radioelement chosen, we will either be able to detect the intra-tumor expression of the target by imaging or create a new theranostic anti-cancer molecule. We have already been able to show by SPECT-CT imaging that this antibody binds specifically in tumors expressing the target, which will allow us to select preclinical mouse models and determine the pharmacokinetic properties of the combined molecule. We hypothesize that the antibody coupled to a high radiation emitting radionuclide will concentrate in the tumors and "burn them from the inside". In addition, and with the aim of transferring this molecule to patients, we will conduct an analysis of eligible patients that will allow us to position this therapy in humans with the best chances of success.