Targeted transarterial therapy of Vx-2 rabbit liver tumor with Yttrium-90 labeled ferromagnetic particles using an external magnetic field.

BACKGROUND

Our goal was to study the efficacy of liver cancer embolization with magnetically targeted Yttrium-90 labeled ferromagnetic particles and establish the biodistribution profile of these particles.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Of twenty rabbits, nine underwent transarterial radioembolization of implanted Vx-2 tumor with increasing 90Y-MTC doses, three were treated with carrier particles alone, four remained untreated and four were sacrificed early to document biodistribution. At various intervals, animals were sacrificed and biodistribution, liver cancer viability and toxicity were measured.

RESULTS

There was a dose related degree of tumor necrosis, with greater than 90 Gy yielding 100% necrosis (baseline 50%). Blood radioactivity one hour post-radioembolization was less than 0.0275 microCi/g. No hematological toxicity was observed. Except for the non-targeted right liver lobe, organ radioactivity levels were within tolerance levels. Significant left (targeted) hepatic lobe necrosis was seen in subjects receiving high doses.

CONCLUSION

Hepatic arterial radioembolization with 9Y-MTC bolstered by external magnetic field has significant tumoricidal effect and a favorable biodistribution profile.