Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP)-Targeted Radionuclide Therapy for Solid Tumors | Helios Clinic Berlin-Buch, Germany

Fibroblast Activation Protein (FAP)-targeted radionuclide therapy is a cancer treatment that delivers radiation to tumors using a targeting drug. Many solid tumors contain cancer-associated fibroblasts, which are support cells around the tumor. These fibroblasts often have high levels of FAP on their surface. The therapy employs a small molecule (often referred to as FAPI) that binds to FAP. When this molecule is linked to a therapeutic radioactive isotope, it delivers radiation to the tumor. Radiation damages the tumor microenvironment and can also kill nearby cancer cells. This is useful because the target is not only the cancer cells but also the tumor stroma, which supports tumor growth and metastasis. Before treatment, physicians can use an FAPI PET scan to assess whether the tumor takes up the tracer well. If uptake is high, the patient may be eligible for therapy. This approach is being studied for many solid tumors, especially those with strong stromal tissue, such as pancreatic, colorectal, breast, and head and neck cancers. Side effects depend on the radionuclide and dose, but clinicians primarily monitor blood counts and kidney function. Because FAP can also appear in some non-cancer conditions like inflammation or fibrosis, careful imaging and planning are important.