Innovative Combination Therapy Shows Promise for Neuroendocrine Tumor Treatment

A groundbreaking study has demonstrated that a novel combination therapy pairing the radiopharmaceutical ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE with the DNA repair inhibitor olaparib is both feasible and tolerable for patients with neuroendocrine tumors. This approach aims to enhance the effectiveness of existing treatments by preventing cancer cells from repairing radiation-induced damage, potentially leading to longer periods of disease control. The research, published in the May issue of The Journal of Nuclear Medicine, indicates that the therapy was generally well tolerated among participants, with the primary dose-limiting toxicity being thrombocytopenia at higher doses.

In the study, 18 patients received ¹⁷⁷Lu-DOTATATE therapy followed by escalating doses of olaparib (50-300 mg twice daily) over up to four treatment cycles. Evaluation of safety and efficacy revealed mild toxicities, such as low-grade bone marrow suppression, nausea, and fatigue. Notably, a disease control rate of 69% was observed at six months post-treatment. This promising outcome suggests that integrating PARP inhibitors like olaparib with targeted radionuclide therapy may boost the overall treatment response.

Dr. Andreas Hallqvist from Sahlgrenska University Hospital emphasizes that combining targeted radiotherapy with DNA repair inhibitors could revolutionize nuclear medicine. "Our findings pave the way for more personalized and effective cancer treatments," he states, highlighting the potential for broader application in managing neuroendocrine tumors.

The study provides compelling evidence that this combined approach may extend the benefits of PRRT (peptide receptor radionuclide therapy), particularly as all patients eventually face disease progression with current standards. Future research aims to optimize dosing and evaluate long-term outcomes, potentially establishing a new standard in neuroendocrine tumor management.

This innovative treatment strategy aligns with ongoing efforts to enhance therapeutic efficacy in nuclear medicine, offering hope for improved survival and quality of life for patients with neuroendocrine tumors.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-05-combination-therapy-safe-feasible-neuroendocrine.html