BACKGROUND: Angiogenesis is the development of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important angiogenic activators. Our studies are focused on the detection of VEGF by use of radiolabeled anti-endothelial monoclonal antibodies, which have the ability to localize in newly-formed vasculature of a cancerous origin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anti-endothelial monoclonal antibody VG76e was labeled with Samarium-153 and Technetium-99m. Biodistribution of the radiolabeled species was assessed in normal female Swiss mice, while tumor uptake was also evaluated. RESULTS: VG76e was labeled with 99mTc and 153Sm, resulting in a single product with a labeling yield of over 95%. Biodistribution studies showed non-specific uptake in any organ, with elimination via the hepatobiliary system. Finally, satisfactory tumor uptake was observed for both radiolabeled derivatives. CONCLUSION: Monoclonal antibodies raised against epithelial growth factors or their receptors, when labeled with appropriate radionuclides, may be a useful tool for early tumor detection and eventually for therapy.
BACKGROUND: Angiogenesis is the development of new blood vessels from pre-existing ones. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important angiogenic activators. Our studies are focused on the detection of VEGF by use of radiolabeled anti-endothelial monoclonal antibodies, which have the ability to localize in newly-formed vasculature of a cancerous origin. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The anti-endothelial monoclonal antibody VG76e was labeled with Samarium-153 and Technetium-99m. Biodistribution of the radiolabeled species was assessed in normal female Swiss mice, while tumor uptake was also evaluated. RESULTS: VG76e was labeled with 99mTc and 153Sm, resulting in a single product with a labeling yield of over 95%. Biodistribution studies showed non-specific uptake in any organ, with elimination via the hepatobiliary system. Finally, satisfactory tumor uptake was observed for both radiolabeled derivatives. CONCLUSION: Monoclonal antibodies raised against epithelial growth factors or their receptors, when labeled with appropriate radionuclides, may be a useful tool for early tumor detection and eventually for therapy.