Evolution of Neuroendocrine Tumor Therapy.

To better understand developments in treatment of neuroendocrine tumors of the gastroenteropancreatic system, and the pivotal roles of native somatostatin and its long-acting analogues play in normal peptide regulation and neuropeptide excess associated with neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), this article delineates and defines distinct eras in the history and discovery of gastrointestinal endocrinology. We highlight the collaboration between academia and industry in basic science and the clinical research that advanced Lu-177-DOTATATE to approval as standard of care therapy for low-grade NETs. Examples of new radioisotopes and therapy compounds currently in development for diagnosis and therapy for high-grade NETs are also discussed.