Radiotherapy R&D partnership

French-US company Orano Med is developing Lead-212 (212Pb) Targeted Alpha Therapy, which combines the ability of biological molecules such as peptides to target cancer cells with the short-range cell-killing capabilities of alpha-emitting radioisotopes. This increases the cytotoxic activity on cancer cells while limiting toxicity to nearby healthy cells. The global market of targeted radiotherapies is expected to grow at a CAGR of 30% between 2023 and 2030.

UK-based Orbit brings its expertise in peptide ligand discovery to the table. The collaboration will utilise Orbit’s bead-based peptide display engine to identify peptide candidates specific to tumour-associated targets. Orano Med will be responsible for the subsequent development of the peptides for clinical use after conjugation with lead-212, one of the most promising alpha emitter isotopes for use in radioligand therapy.

“In our strategy to develop and deliver 212Pb Targeted Alpha Therapy for cancer patients, we’re delighted to work with Orbit Discovery and leverage its technology and expertise in peptide ligand discovery to build our pipeline of radiotherapies,” said Julien Dodet, Chief Executive Officer of Orano Med.

Financial details were not disclosed.