Chlorotoxin (TMI) ¹³¹I-TM-601

131I-TM-601 is a radiopharmaceutical containing a synthetic version of chlorotoxin, a substance derived from scorpion venom. Chlorotoxin, or TM-601, specifically seeks out and binds to a receptor expressed on tumor cells, but not on normal cells. TM-601 acts as the guidance system that very effectively delivers a radioactive payload to its target, precisely killing the tumor cells and minimizing collateral damage to normal cells. 131I-TM-601 has received Orphan Drug and Fast Track Development Program status from the FDA. For more information on Chlorotoxin, please contact our research unit.

For more information, please view the following websites:

• Cancer Net at http://www.cancer.net/portal/site/patient
• National Cancer Institute (NCI) at http://www.cancer.gov/
• American Cancer Society at http://www.cancer.org/docroot/home/index.asp

Terminology

• Radioisotope Therapy (RIT)

  With radioisotope therapy (RIT), a liquid form of radiation is administered internally through infusion or injection. The rationale behind RIT is to treat cancerous cells with minimal damage to the normal surrounding tissue. RIT uses a radioactive substance, such as a radiolabeled monoclonal antibody, that travels in the blood directly to tissues at the cancer site. These therapies are not normally the first approach used to fight a patient’s cancer. Instead, they are more likely to be used after other therapies have not achieved their desired results. There are numerous barriers to radioisotope therapy including issues of access, acquisition of radioisotopes, radiation protection regulations, and cost.