Radiopharm and AtomVie Collaborate on Radioantibody Development

Radiopharm Theranostics (RAD) and AtomVie Global Radiopharma have announced a strategic collaboration to develop and manufacture 177Lu-BetaBart, a radioantibody aimed at treating various solid tumors. This partnership involves Radiopharm Ventures (RV), a joint initiative between RAD and the MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC).

177Lu-BetaBart is a radioantibody conjugated with Lutetium-177, designed to target the immune checkpoint molecule B7-H3. This molecule is prominently expressed in multiple tumor types and is linked to aggressive cancer behavior and poor patient outcomes.

The collaboration aims to leverage the strengths of both companies to create new radiotherapeutic cancer treatments that meet significant unmet medical needs. 177Lu-BetaBart is the first radiopharmaceutical to target the 4Ig subtype of B7-H3. It was developed at MDACC to reduce blood circulation time and minimize on-target off-tissue toxicity.

Riccardo Canevari, the Managing Director and CEO of RAD, emphasized the importance of the collaboration with AtomVie, highlighting their established expertise in manufacturing and global distribution. This partnership is seen as a critical step in advancing through clinical stages and preparing for potential commercialization.

The partnership brings together RAD’s extensive portfolio of radiotherapeutic products and AtomVie’s manufacturing and distribution capabilities. The 177Lu-BetaBart project is part of a larger pipeline of advanced technologies developed by RAD and RV, which includes small molecules, peptides, and monoclonal antibodies sourced from universities and research institutes globally.

Bruno Paquin, CEO of AtomVie, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration with RAD. He emphasized AtomVie’s expertise in radiopharmaceutical manufacturing and their commitment to supporting RAD in progressing its innovative pipeline. AtomVie’s new facility is expected to enhance their ability to bring high-quality radiopharmaceuticals to market, ultimately aiming to transform patient lives.

A Phase I/II first-in-human trial for 177Lu-BetaBart, targeting multiple tumor types in the US, is expected to begin by mid-2025.