Somatostatin Receptor 2-targeting radiotherapeutic candidate

A next-generation radiotherapeutic drug candidate designed to target **somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2)**, which is a cell surface receptor highly expressed on various neuroendocrine tumors and some other cancers. The drug functions by delivering a cytotoxic radionuclide directly to tumor cells that express SSTR2, leveraging a radioligand or radiopeptide platform. Mechanistically, these agents bind selectively to SSTR2, allowing targeted delivery of radioactive payloads—such as lutetium-177, rhenium-188, or novel radiometals—resulting in DNA damage and cell death within the tumor. The candidate referenced is being developed in partnership between Ratio Therapeutics and Novartis, with Ratio leading preclinical generation and Novartis poised to handle advanced development, manufacturing, and commercialization. The primary indication is for SSTR2-positive cancers, including neuroendocrine tumors and other SSTR2-expressing solid tumors. Ongoing research and clinical development aim to improve targeting, therapeutic index, and tumor residence time relative to prior generations of SSTR2 radioligands[2][1][3].

Other names

SSTR2 programSSTR-2 programSSTR 2 programSSTR2-targeted radiopharmaceuticalSSTR-2-targeted radiopharmaceuticalSSTR 2-targeted radiopharmaceutical