Purpose: The use of an ␣ emitter for radioimmunotherapy has potential advantages compared with  emitters. When administered systemically optimal targeting of intact antibodies requires >24 h, therefore limiting the use of shortlived ␣ emitters. This study investigated the biodistribution of bismuth-labeled biotin in A431 tumor-bearing mice pretargeted with antibody B3-streptavidin (B3-SA) and examined the therapeutic efficacy of the ␣ emitter,
213Bi-labeled biotin. Experimental Design: Biotinidase-resistant 7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-N,N,N؆,Nٟ-tetraacetic acid (DOTA)-biotin was radiolabeled with 205,206 Bi or 213 Bi. Treatment of tumor-bearing mice began by administration of B3-SA (400 g) to target the tumor sites for 24 h. Then, an agent containing biotin and galactose groups was used to clear the conjugate from the circulation. Four h later, bismuth-radiolabeled DOTA-biotin was given, and biodistribution or therapy was evaluated. Dose escalation treatment from 3.7-74 MBq was performed, and the effects on tumors of different sizes were investigated. Tumor growth, complete blood cell counts, toxicity, and survival were monitored.Results: Radiolabeled biotin cleared rapidly. Rapid tumor uptake resulted in much higher tumor:nontumor targeting ratios than achieved with the directly labeled monoclonal antibody. Dose escalation revealed that 74 MBq caused acute death of mice, whereas 0.37-37 MBq doses inhibited tumor growth and prolonged survival significantly. Evidence of mild hematological toxicity was noted.At therapeutically effective doses renal toxicity was observed.
Conclusions:213 Bi-DOTA-biotin, directed by the Pretarget method to tumor-targeted B3-SA, showed a therapeutic effect, although the therapeutic index was low. The source of the toxicity was most likely related to the renal toxicity.