PSMA Hybrid Tracers for Fluorescence and Radiolabeled Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tracers for prostate cancer, such as those based on the EuX vector, lack high utility for hybrid imaging that combines pre-operative detection and intraoperative fluorescence imaging, and do not effectively prevent unwanted uptake in background organs.
Innovation Solution
Development of hybrid tracers that combine a PSMA probe with a fluorophore and a radiolabel, allowing for non-invasive imaging and tunable pharmacokinetics to enhance cancer detection and surgical guidance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing EuX-based tracers are used for prostate cancer detection, then PSMA targeting capability is achieved, but hybrid imaging utility (combining pre-operative detection and intraoperative fluorescence imaging) is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple imaging modalities (fluorescence and radiolabeling) into a single hybrid tracer molecule. The tracer simultaneously incorporates a fluorophore for intraoperative fluorescence imaging and a radiolabel for pre-operative detection, enabling dual-functionality from one compound rather than requiring separate tracers for each imaging modality.
Solution Approach 2:
The designed tracer serves multiple functions: it targets PSMA for cancer detection, provides fluorescence signaling for surgical guidance, and enables radiolabeled imaging for pre-operative planning. This multi-functional design allows a single tracer to replace what would otherwise require multiple separate agents.
2Measurement precision
If existing tracers are used for cancer detection, then tumor detection capability is achieved, but unwanted uptake in background organs is not effectively prevented
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes specific regions of the tracer molecule to enhance tumor-specific binding while reducing non-specific uptake. By modifying local properties of the tracer (such as adding specific functional groups or adjusting molecular structure at key positions), the tracer achieves higher selectivity for tumor tissue over background organs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent adjusts key parameters of the tracer including molecular structure, hydrophobicity, and binding affinity to optimize tumor-to-background ratio. By changing these parameters, the tracer achieves improved tumor detection accuracy while minimizing unwanted accumulation in non-target organs.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The hybrid tracers provide improved tumor visibility with high tumor-to-background ratios and reduced uptake in non-target organs, facilitating effective surgical resection of prostate cancer.
Implementation Method 1
a fluorophore and a moiety that may include a radiolabel
Implementation Method 2
a moiety that may include a radiolabel
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to compounds of formula I or Ia: (I) (Ia). Y is EuK, —EuAF, —EuPG, -L-EuE; Z is a chelating moiety; and the other substituents are as defined herein. Also provided are formulations comprising such a compound, as well as methods of imaging or methods for the treatment of cancer comprising use of such a compound or formulation.