Radically New Cancer Therapy Based on Advances in Nanotechnology and Photonics for Simultaneous Imaging and Treatment of Solid Tumours

Introduction

Cancer treatment is a significant healthcare challenge, costing Europe up to 199 billion annually. The burden will grow substantially, with a projected 60% increase in cancer cases from 2018 to 2040.

Project Overview

To address these challenges, the ScanNanoTreat consortium, consisting of Claude Bernard Lyon 1 University, Maastricht University, Guerbet, Philips, and Inlecom Commercial Pathways, is developing a revolutionary theranostic approach combining advanced photonics and nanotechnology.

Innovative System

The innovative system integrates:

• Spectral Photon Counting Computed Tomography (SPCCT)
• X-ray-activated Photodynamic Therapy (X-PDT) using gadolinium-based nanoprobes.

This approach enables simultaneous imaging and treatment of solid tumours, with an initial focus on breast and pancreatic cancers.

Goals and Benefits

By leveraging low-energy X-rays and optimized nanoprobes, ScanNanoTreat aims to:

1. Reduce radiation doses by over 30% compared to conventional radiotherapy.
2. Radically shorten the diagnosis-treatment cycle.
3. Improve prognosis and better patient outcomes.
4. Achieve up to a 40% reduction in cancer treatment costs.

Market Potential

If successfully deployed, ScanNanoTreat could revolutionize the European theranostic market, aiming to capture 10-17% of the projected 493 million market by 2032, suggesting a potential market size of 35-60 million by 2035.

Development and Strategy

The project will advance the technology from TRL 3 to TRL 5, preparing for clinical trials by 2027 and potential market entry by 2035. Additionally, a business plan and exploitation strategy will be developed, targeting a spinoff creation to commercialize the technology.

Funding and Support

The support of the EIC Transition grant is crucial to:

• Conduct preclinical studies.
• Optimize the SPCCT system.
• Develop a comprehensive regulatory strategy.

Conclusion

By addressing critical healthcare needs and aligning with EU strategic autonomy in MedTech, ScanNanoTreat will radically improve cancer care and contribute to the sustainability of European healthcare systems.