Radiopharmacology and Cancer Imaging
Using small animal imaging (PET, SPECT, CT, MRI and optical) radiopharmacological characteristics and safety of novel radiolabeled compounds are evaluated in laboratory mice and rats with regard to biodistribution, metabolic fate, and excretion profiles. These investigations include small molecules, peptides, antibodies, and nanoparticles targeting extra- and intracellular targets, e.g., cyclooxygenase-2, transglutaminase‑2, SLC transporters, proteases and somatostatin receptors. Diagnostic performance of promising radiotracers as well as efficiency of anti-cancer drugs and treatment regimens are evaluated in animal models of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, prostate cancer, multiple myeloma, urothelial carcinoma, and other tumor entities. Our research also involves functional imaging of metabolic alterations, such as hypoxia and inflammation in order to further improve our understanding of distinct tumor characteristics and to identify potential “Achilles’ heels” for targeted adjuvant, e.g. radiosensitizing treatments.
Recent key publications
- Ullrich M. et al., Theranostics. 14:5371-5387, 2024.
- Richter S. et al., Theranostics. 14:17-32, 2024.
- Ullrich M. et al., ACS Omega. 8:24003, 2023.
- Ullrich M. et al., Theranostics. 13:278, 2023. (Press release)
- Cieslik P. et al., J Am Chem Soc, 144, 21555, 2022. (JACS spotlight)/(Press release)
- Wang K. et al., Endocr Relat Cancer. 29:285-306, 2022.
Projects (multicenter)
- UroNec: Development of bicyclic radiopeptide conjugates for the theranostic treatment of urothelial carcinomas on the basis of a radiocopper platform; Sächsische Aufbaubank (SAB).
- The Adrenal: Central Relay in Health and Disease; DFG, Transregio Collaborative Research Centre TRR205; subproject B10.
Research initiatives
- Mechanisms of Radiotherapy Resistance in Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)
- Coppernostics (copper-61/64/67) in Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs)
Further publications on our hypotheses and approaches