🎯 Tumor-Targeting Vector [Neurosurgery Wiki]

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====== 🎯 Tumor-Targeting Vector ======

A **tumor-targeting [[vector]]** is a molecule or carrier used to **deliver therapeutic agents** (such as radionuclides, drugs, or nanoparticles) **specifically to cancer cells** by binding to tumor-associated antigens or receptors.

===== 🔬 Key Features =====
  * **High specificity** for tumor markers
  * **Low affinity for healthy tissues**
  * Can be chemically linked to:
    * Alpha-emitting radionuclides (e.g., ^^225^^Ac, ^^213^^Bi)
    * Chemotherapeutic agents
    * Nanoparticles or liposomes

===== 🧪 Common Types of Vectors =====
  * **Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs):**
    * Recognize specific tumor antigens (e.g., HER2, EGFR)
    * High binding specificity
    * ⮕ Example: Trastuzumab

  * **Peptides:**
    * Small and fast-clearing
    * Bind to receptors like somatostatin or substance P
    * ⮕ Example: DOTA-substance P used in glioblastoma TAT

  * **Aptamers:**
    * DNA or RNA molecules folded into 3D shapes
    * Bind with high specificity to tumor markers

  * **Small molecules:**
    * Chemically synthesized
    * Can target enzymes, transporters, or overexpressed receptors
    * ⮕ Example: PSMA ligands in prostate cancer

===== ⚙️ Conjugation to Radionuclides =====
  * Vectors are **chelated** or **covalently linked** to radionuclides
  * Chelators like **DOTA** or **NOTA** are commonly used for stable binding
  * Must retain binding ability after labeling

===== ✅ Ideal Properties =====
  * Tumor specificity and minimal off-target binding
  * Stable in circulation
  * Compatible with chosen therapeutic agent
  * Able to internalize (optional, but preferred for some radionuclides)

===== 🧠 Summary =====
Tumor-targeting vectors are the **precision delivery tools** of modern oncology. When combined with alpha emitters, they form the basis of **Targeted Alpha Therapy (TAT)**, enabling **potent and selective destruction** of tumor cells.