New collaboration targets precision radiopharmaceuticals

A new partnership between precision medicine specialist Navigo Proteins and Belgian nuclear research centre SCK CEN aims to accelerate development of targeted radiotheranostic treatments using the promising radioisotope terbium-161.

Combining Navigo’s engineered protein platforms with SCK CEN’s radiochemistry and isotope production expertise, the collaboration will explore preclinical applications of Auger-electron emitters for cancer therapy. Unlike conventional treatments, radiotheranostics can deliver radioactive payloads directly to tumour cells, limiting damage to healthy tissue.

“This alliance brings together the right building blocks for next-generation radiopharmaceuticals,” said Dr Ulrich Haupts, CSO and Managing Director at Navigo. “By working with SCK CEN, we gain strategic access to terbium-161 and a wealth of nuclear medicine know-how that can help bring new therapies to the clinic faster.”

Preclinical studies will investigate a series of undisclosed targets with the goal of identifying a lead candidate within the next two to three years. The long-term vision? More personalised, effective, and better-tolerated cancer treatments.

Koen Hasaers, Director of Nuclear Medical Applications at SCK CEN, added: “The synergy between our isotope infrastructure and Navigo’s molecular platforms means faster development timelines – and potentially better outcomes for patients.”

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