The emerging role of copper-64 radiopharmaceuticals as cancer theranostics. Issue 8 (August 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boschi, Alessandra; Martini, Petra; Janevik-Ivanovska, Emilija; Duatti, Adriano
• Is Part Of: Drug discovery today. Volume 23:Issue 8(2018)
• Page Start: 1489
• Page End: 1501
• Publication Date: 2018-08
• Subjects: Drugs -- Design -- Periodicals; Drugs -- Research -- Periodicals; 615.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2018.04.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1359-6446

Abstract

Highlights: Copper radionuclides for in vivo imaging of biological functions of copper ions. Copper-64 has suitable nuclear properties for cancer theranostics. Radioactive copper ions as early biomarkers of cancer progression. Copper radionuclides can be used for developing novel radiopharmaceuticals. Abstract : Copper radionuclides are rapidly emerging as potential diagnostic and therapeutic tools in oncology, particularly 64 Cu-radiopharmaceuticals for targeting neuroendocrine, prostate, and hypoxic tumors. Unexpectedly, experimental results are also revealing the impressive biological behavior of simple [ 64 Cu 2+ ] ions. For example, it has been demonstrated that administration of ionic [ 64 Cu 2+ ] in physiological solution allows the selective targeting of a variety of malignancies. These remarkable biological properties appear to be crucially linked to the natural role of copper ions in cell proliferation. Here, we review the current status of 64 Cu-radiopharmaceuticals in molecular imaging and cancer therapy. Teaser: Copper radioisotopes are emerging as potent tools for developing unprecedented clinical approaches for cancer treatment by exploiting the intrinsic biological properties of ionic copper and the richness of copper chemistry.