In short
NeoB is an investigational drug being studied in clinical trials for various advanced solid tumors. It targets a protein called gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR), which is overexpressed in certain cancers. The trials are evaluating NeoB as both an imaging agent ([68Ga]Ga-NeoB) and a therapeutic agent ([177Lu]Lu-NeoB) to detect and treat GRPR-positive tumors. These studies aim to determine the safety, efficacy, and optimal dosing of NeoB in different cancer types and treatment combinations.
At a glance
- Drug Name
- NeoB (imaging: [68Ga]Ga-NeoB, therapy: [177Lu]Lu-NeoB)
- Target
- Gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR)
- Cancer Types
- Advanced solid tumors including breast, prostate, glioblastoma, neuroendocrine prostate cancer
- Trial Phases
- Phase I/II
- Administration
- Intravenous infusion
- Key Objectives
- Safety, tolerability, optimal dosing, efficacy, pharmacokinetics
- Outcome Measures
- Dose-limiting toxicities, adverse events, tumor response, progression-free survival, overall survival
- Combination Therapies
- Studied with standard treatments (e.g., radiotherapy, temozolomide, ribociclib, fulvestrant)
- Imaging Applications
- PET/CT or PET/MRI for tumor detection and treatment monitoring
- Follow-up Duration
- Varies by trial, ranging from 17 months to 5 years
What is NEOB?
NEOB is a new drug being studied for its potential in treating various types of cancer. It is known by several names, including [177Lu]Lu-NeoB, [68Ga]Ga-NeoB, Lu-NeoB, and Ga-NeoB, depending on the specific form and use. NEOB belongs to a class of drugs called radioligand therapies, which use radioactive substances to target and treat cancer cells.
How NEOB Works
NEOB works by targeting a specific protein called the Gastrin-Releasing Peptide Receptor (GRPR), which is found in high amounts on the surface of certain cancer cells. The drug is designed to attach to these receptors and deliver a dose of radiation directly to the cancer cells, potentially killing them or slowing their growth while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Conditions Treated with NEOB
NEOB is being investigated for use in several types of cancer, including:
- Breast cancer: Particularly in patients with estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) breast cancer that has spread to other parts of the body (metastatic)
- Prostate cancer: Including advanced prostate cancer and a rare, aggressive form called neuroendocrine prostate cancer
- Lung cancer
- Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST)
- Glioblastoma: An aggressive type of brain cancer
Clinical Trials Involving NEOB
Several clinical trials are currently underway to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of NEOB:
- A phase I/IIa study is testing NEOB in patients with various advanced solid tumors
- A phase Ib study is investigating NEOB in combination with other drugs (ribociclib and fulvestrant) for breast cancer
- A phase Ib study is exploring NEOB's use in newly diagnosed and recurrent glioblastoma
- A pilot study is assessing NEOB as an imaging tool for breast cancer staging
- A phase I study is evaluating NEOB alongside other targeted therapies for neuroendocrine prostate cancer
How NEOB is Administered
NEOB is typically administered in two forms:
- [68Ga]Ga-NeoB: This form is used for imaging purposes. It's given as an intravenous injection before a PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan to help locate cancer cells in the body.
- [177Lu]Lu-NeoB: This is the treatment form of the drug. It's usually given as an intravenous infusion every 3 to 6 weeks, depending on the specific trial and condition being treated.
Safety and Side Effects
As NEOB is still in clinical trials, its full safety profile is not yet established. Researchers are closely monitoring patients for potential side effects, which may include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Changes in blood cell counts
- Effects on kidney function
The trials are designed to determine the safest and most effective dose of NEOB, as well as to identify any potential side effects.
Future Prospects for NEOB
NEOB shows promise as a targeted therapy for various types of cancer, particularly those that express high levels of GRPR. If successful in clinical trials, it could offer a new treatment option for patients who have not responded well to other therapies or whose cancer has returned after previous treatments.
Researchers are also exploring the use of NEOB as a diagnostic tool. The [68Ga]Ga-NeoB form could potentially help doctors more accurately locate and stage cancers, leading to better treatment planning.
As research continues, we may learn more about how NEOB can be used effectively, either alone or in combination with other cancer treatments, to improve outcomes for patients with various types of cancer.