Starget Pharma, a startup specializing in precision cancer diagnostics and targeted radiotherapy, has secured $5.1 million in funding from Cancer Focus, a fund established in collaboration with the MD Anderson Cancer Center. This investment will support an upcoming clinical trial evaluating Starget Pharma's radioligand-based therapies for treating advanced metastatic cancers, including sarcomas, neuroendocrine tumors, melanoma, and liver cancer.
AI-Driven Precision in Cancer Treatment
Founded in 2019 through ARC Innovation at Sheba Medical Center, Starget Pharma is developing radioligand-based therapies designed to precisely target tumor cells with focused radiation. This approach aims to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissue, offering a potentially safer and more effective alternative to traditional radiotherapy. The company's innovative platform combines diagnostic imaging with targeted radiotherapy to create personalized treatment plans for patients with advanced cancers.
Starget Pharma's platform leverages AI technology to enhance the precision and personalization of cancer treatment. The AI-driven system enables highly accurate delivery of radiation to tumor cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue. This personalized approach tailors treatment plans based on individual patient needs and tumor characteristics, potentially leading to improved outcomes and reduced side effects compared to traditional radiotherapy.
Clinical Trial Details and Future Directions
The upcoming clinical trial, supported by the new funding, will assess the safety and efficacy of Starget Pharma’s targeted radiotherapy across various advanced cancers. The trial will be conducted at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center and other leading institutions, with patient recruitment expected to begin in early 2025. Early studies have demonstrated safety and strong tumor cell uptake.
According to CEO Sigal Clemenson-Kushnir, this investment underscores the potential of Starget Pharma's radioligand-based technology to deliver safer and more effective treatments for complex cancers. The company believes its technology offers a significant alternative to existing therapies, particularly for patients facing advanced cancer with limited treatment options.
