ABSCINT, a VUB spin-off specializing in clinical-stage molecular imaging that develops diagnostics based on single-domain antibodies, has secured 3 million euros in funding. They are developing radiopharmaceutical diagnostics, using single-domain antibodies, to guide treatment selection for oncological, cardiovascular, and immunological diseases. The investment, coming from various sources including Noshaq, Qbic, UZBrussel, and others, will allow ABSCINT to initiate Phase II Clinical Trials for their ABSCINT-HER2 program, which focuses on metastatic breast cancer.
This development is crucial as breast cancer affects 1 in 7 women in Europe. Recent changes in breast cancer classification have introduced the category of HER2-low, making more patients eligible for HER2-targeted therapies. However, identifying the right patients for treatment is challenging due to heterogeneous HER2 expression in some breast cancers.
ABSCINT has developed ABSCINT-HER2, an imaging tool that visualizes all cancer lesions expressing HER2 throughout the body. This approach addresses the diagnostic challenges caused by tumour heterogeneity, providing a comprehensive view. Phase II Clinical Trials will evaluate the effectiveness of this diagnostic method.
The funding and support from investors and partnerships are essential for ABSCINT to advance its technology and potentially benefit metastatic breast cancer patients and those with cardiovascular diseases. This development aims to improve patient outcomes by providing more precise diagnoses and personalized treatment options.