Lightpoint Medical and Telix Pharmaceuticals have joined forces to combine their technologies for exploring real-time intra-operative cancer detection.
The collaboration will initially evaluate the use of Lightpoint’s SENSEI used together with Telix’s TLX599-CDx for the intra-operative detection of cancerous pelvic lymph nodes.
SENSEI is a miniaturised surgical gamma probe, for minimally invasive and robot-assisted cancer surgery.
TLX599-CDx is an investigational prostate cancer single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging agent.
Through the collaboration, the companies aim to support the regulatory approval and commercialisation of SENSEI used with TLX599-CDx for prostate cancer surgery.
Lightpoint CEO Graeme Smith said: “This strategic partnership agreement with Telix marks an important milestone for Lightpoint Medical.
“The combination of our miniaturized surgical gamma probe, SENSEI, alongside Telix’s ground-breaking imaging agents is intended to create an extremely precise technique to help surgeons detect cancer that might not otherwise be found during surgery, or conversely, confirm the absence of disease to help surgeons retain healthy, functional tissue.
“The collaboration between our two companies has the potential to transform surgical outcomes for patients across a range of major cancer types, starting with prostate cancer.”
Lightpoint’s SENSEI has been approved in the US, EU, the UK and Australia, and can be used with molecularly targeted imaging agents.
The probe aids direct detection of cancer during surgery, guiding surgeons in the removal of cancer and the sparing of healthy, functional tissue.
TLX599-CDx facilitates patient access to advanced prostate cancer imaging in countries where SPECT imaging is widely used in healthcare facilities.
In April this year, Telix has initiated NOBLE Registry to explore the clinical utility of TLX599-CDx, to generate data, and facilitate the design of future formal registration clinical trials.
Telix CEO Christian Behrenbruch said: “Bringing molecular imaging into the operating theatre is a key part of our portfolio strategy for urologic oncology, and the combination of Telix and Lightpoint technologies has the potential to transform treatment options for patients with cancer.
“This collaboration helps to reinforce Telix’s position as a leader in developing advanced surgical technologies using highly targeted imaging techniques.”
