Neuroendocrine Cancer
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Accelerating Neuroendocrine Cancer Drug Development

Neuroendocrine cancers present significant therapeutic challenges due to their heterogeneity, complex biology, and limited treatment options. Alfa Cytology is a specialized partner in the preclinical development of novel therapeutics targeting neuroendocrine malignancies. Leveraging deep scientific expertise and state-of-the-art technology platforms, Alfa Cytology delivers comprehensive preclinical solutions spanning target validation, pharmacology, toxicology, and IND-enabling studies. Our team integrates advanced in vitro and in vivo models with robust biomarker strategies to generate high-quality, decision-enabling data. Alfa Cytology’s commitment to rigorous scientific standards and full regulatory compliance ensures that every project aligns with the latest industry requirements and accelerates progression toward clinical development. By combining domain expertise in neuroendocrine oncology with a focus on innovation and operational excellence, Alfa Cytology empowers biopharmaceutical partners to overcome scientific obstacles and advance promising candidates with confidence. Our mission is to accelerate therapeutic breakthroughs, transforming the outlook for patients with neuroendocrine cancers.

What is Neuroendocrine CancerTargets for Neuroendocrine CancerDrug Discovery and Development ServicesWhy Choose Us

What is Neuroendocrine Cancer

Neuroendocrine cancer, or neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs), refers to a diverse group of malignancies originating from neuroendocrine cells found throughout the body. These cells possess both nerve and hormone-producing characteristics, enabling them to secrete bioactive substances that can lead to distinctive clinical syndromes. The development of neuroendocrine cancers is driven by genetic and epigenetic alterations, including mutations in genes such as MEN1, DAXX, ATRX, and components of the mTOR pathway. Both hereditary and environmental factors contribute to disease risk, and tumor behavior ranges from slow-growing, indolent lesions to highly aggressive, metastatic forms. Clinically, neuroendocrine cancers may be asymptomatic or present with symptoms related to hormone overproduction—such as flushing, diarrhea, or hypoglycemia—or due to tumor mass effects. Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical assessment, biochemical testing for tumor markers and hormone levels, advanced imaging (CT, MRI, PET), and histopathological confirmation with immunohistochemistry and proliferative grading. Treatment options are tailored to tumor type, grade, and stage, and may include targeted therapies (e.g., everolimus, cabozantinib, belzutifan), peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (lutetium Lu 177 dotatate), cytotoxic chemotherapy (vincristine), and symptom control agents (metirosine). Prognosis varies widely, with low-grade localized tumors having favorable outcomes, while advanced or high-grade disease is associated with poorer survival.

Launched Drugs

Structure Generic Name CAS Registry Number Molecular Formula Molecular Weight
img-1672668-24-4-belzutifan-rec-inn-usan belzutifan (Rec INN; USAN) 1672668-24-4 C17 H12 F3 N O4 S 383.342
img-1308672-74-3-sulfatinibsurufatinib-rec-inn-usan sulfatinib; surufatinib (Rec INN; USAN) 1308672-74-3 C24 H28 N6 O3 S 480.583
img-1426155-87-4-copper-cu-64-dotatate-usan copper Cu 64 dotatate (USAN) 1426155-87-4 C65 H88 N14 O19 S2 . Cu 1497.607
img-unknown-177lu-oxodotreotide-rec-innlutetium-lu-177-dotatat 177Lu-oxodotreotide (Rec INN); lutetium Lu 177 dotatate (USAN) C65 H87 N14 O19 S2 . Lu 1609.599
img-1140909-48-3849217-68-1-free-base-cabozantinib-s-malate-prop-innm-usan cabozantinib S-malate (Prop INNM; USAN) 1140909-48-3; 849217-68-1 (free base) C28 H24 F N3 O5 . C4 H6 O5 635.593
img-159351-69-6-everolimus-rec-inn-usan everolimus (Rec INN; USAN) 159351-69-6 C53 H83 N O14 958.224
img-139096-04-1-111inpentetreotide-rec-innm-banmindium-in-111-pent [111In]pentetreotide (Rec INNM; BANM); indium In 111 pentetreotide (USAN) 139096-04-1 C63 H84 N13 O19 S2 . In 1502.547
img-77679-27-7-iobenguane-i-131-usaniobenguane131i-rec-inn iobenguane I 131 (USAN); iobenguane[131I] (Rec INN) 77679-27-7 C8 H10 I N3 279.185
img-672-87-7-metirosine-rec-inn-banmetyrosine-usan metirosine (Rec INN; BAN); metyrosine (USAN) 672-87-7 C10 H13 N O3 195.215
img-2068-78-2-vincristine-sulfate-rec-innm-usan-banm vincristine sulfate (Rec INNM; USAN; BANM) 2068-78-2 C46 H56 N4 O10 . H2 O4 S 923.036

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Targets for Neuroendocrine Cancer

Targets in Clinical or Later Phases of Development

Target Name Gene Symbol
ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1 ABCB1
AXL receptor tyrosine kinase AXL
colony stimulating factor 1 receptor CSF1R
fms related receptor tyrosine kinase 4 FLT4
fms related receptor tyrosine kinase 1 FLT1
fms related receptor tyrosine kinase 3 FLT3
FKBP prolyl isomerase 1A FKBP1A
fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 FGFR1
mechanistic target of rapamycin kinase MTOR
Somatostatin receptor (nonspecified subtype)

Neuroendocrine cancer (NEC) is driven by a complex interplay of molecular targets that regulate cell proliferation, survival, angiogenesis, hormone secretion, and drug resistance. Key receptor tyrosine kinases—including RET, KIT, FGFR1, and MET—activate oncogenic pathways such as MAPK and PI3K/AKT/mTOR, promoting tumor growth and metastasis. The mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR) serves as a central effector, integrating signals from upstream kinases to drive protein synthesis and cell survival. Additionally, the somatostatin receptor 2 (SSTR2) is highly expressed in well-differentiated NECs, mediating hormone inhibition and serving as a hallmark of neuroendocrine differentiation. Drug resistance is frequently mediated by ATP binding cassette subfamily B member 1 (ABCB1), an efflux pump that exports chemotherapeutic agents and limits treatment efficacy. Therapeutic strategies targeting these molecules have demonstrated significant clinical promise. Inhibitors of RET, KIT, FGFR1, and MET are under investigation or in clinical use, offering tailored approaches for molecularly defined patient subsets. mTOR inhibitors, such as everolimus, are approved for advanced NEC, while somatostatin analogs and peptide receptor radionuclide therapy leverage SSTR2 expression for both treatment and diagnostic imaging. Overcoming drug resistance through ABCB1 inhibition remains an area of active research. Collectively, these targets underpin precision oncology in NEC, enabling biomarker-driven therapies and supporting ongoing efforts to improve patient outcomes.

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Drug Discovery and Development Services

In Vitro Efficacy Testing ServicesIn Vivo Model DevelopmentPK/PD Study ServicesIn Vivo Toxicity Assessment ServicesBiomarker Analysis Services
In Vitro Efficacy Testing Services

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Our In Vitro Efficacy Testing Service accelerates neuroendocrine cancer drug discovery by providing robust, sensitive platforms for screening and characterization. We evaluate candidate therapies targeting key proteins and pathways, including somatostatin receptors and immune checkpoints. Utilizing advanced biochemical, molecular, and cellular assays—such as ATP, ELISA, HTRF, chemiluminescent, and flow cytometry—we assess drug potency, receptor binding, and mechanism of action. Quantitative parameters like IC-50 and Kd guide therapeutic optimization. Our comprehensive approach delivers actionable data on compound efficacy, selectivity, and immune modulation, supporting informed decision-making and efficient progression through the drug development pipeline.

Axl Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Colony Stimulating Factor 1 Receptor
Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor 1 Fms Related Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 1
Fms Related Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 3 Fms Related Receptor Tyrosine Kinase 4
Kinase Insert Domain Receptor Kit Proto-Oncogene, Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
Mechanistic Target Of Rapamycin Kinase Met Proto-Oncogene, Receptor Tyrosine Kinase
Programmed Cell Death 1 Ret Proto-Oncogene
Somatostatin Receptor 2 Tek Receptor Tyrosine Kinase

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Why Choose Us

Choosing Alfa Cytology means partnering with a team deeply committed to advancing the field of Neuroendocrine cancer therapeutics. With specialized expertise in Neuroendocrine cancer research and drug development, Alfa Cytology stands at the forefront of innovation, utilizing cutting-edge technology platforms and a highly skilled professional team to deliver reliable and effective preclinical drug development services. Our track record speaks to our reliability and dedication, as we have successfully supported numerous projects from early discovery through to preclinical validation. At Alfa Cytology, we adhere to the highest quality standards and maintain strict regulatory compliance, ensuring that every step of our process meets the rigorous demands of the industry and regulatory authorities. Our unwavering commitment to excellence and patient-focused innovation drives us to continually push the boundaries of Neuroendocrine cancer research. By choosing Alfa Cytology, you are selecting a trusted partner with the expertise, technology, and integrity needed to accelerate the development of promising new therapeutics for Neuroendocrine cancer.

FAQs for Our Services

Q: What are the main preclinical research challenges specific to developing drugs for Neuroendocrine cancer?

A: Neuroendocrine cancers are highly heterogeneous, both in terms of their molecular profiles and clinical behavior, which poses significant challenges in preclinical research. Developing relevant in vitro and in vivo models that accurately recapitulate the human disease is complex, as is identifying reliable biomarkers for efficacy and safety. Our company addresses these challenges by utilizing advanced patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, 3D organoid cultures, and high-throughput screening platforms that are tailored for neuroendocrine tumor biology.

Q: What regulatory considerations are important for preclinical development of Neuroendocrine cancer drugs?

A: Regulatory agencies such as the FDA and EMA require robust preclinical data demonstrating the safety, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy of new drug candidates. For neuroendocrine cancer, it is also critical to address rare disease designations and orphan drug status, which can impact the regulatory pathway. Our team has extensive experience preparing IND-enabling studies and compiling the necessary documentation to support regulatory submissions, ensuring compliance with all relevant guidelines.

Q: What are some technical aspects unique to Neuroendocrine cancer research in preclinical drug development?

A: Neuroendocrine tumors often express unique biomarkers such as chromogranin A and synaptophysin, and may secrete hormones that influence disease progression. Technically, this necessitates specialized assays for biomarker quantification, hormone level monitoring, and the use of imaging modalities suited to neuroendocrine tissue. Our laboratory offers validated assays and advanced imaging techniques to ensure precise characterization of drug effects in neuroendocrine tumor models.

Q: What are the typical timeline and cost considerations for preclinical development of Neuroendocrine cancer therapeutics?

A: Preclinical development for neuroendocrine cancer drugs generally spans 18-36 months, depending on the complexity of the candidate and the required studies. Costs can vary widely, but are often higher than average due to the need for specialized models and assays. Our company provides detailed project planning and transparent budgeting, leveraging our established infrastructure to optimize timelines and manage costs without compromising on scientific rigor.

Q: What are the key success factors in preclinical drug development for Neuroendocrine cancer?

A: Success in neuroendocrine cancer drug development relies on selecting relevant disease models, integrating translational biomarkers, and designing studies that anticipate clinical challenges. Early engagement with regulatory agencies and a multidisciplinary approach involving oncology, pharmacology, and toxicology experts are also critical. Our company’s integrated services and scientific expertise ensure that all these factors are addressed, maximizing the likelihood of successful IND submission and subsequent clinical development.

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