ABSTRACT
The precise delivery of cytotoxic radiation to cancer cells through the combination of a specific targeting vector with a radionuclide for targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT) has proven valuable for cancer care. TRT is increasingly being considered a relevant treatment method in fighting micro-metastases in the case of relapsed and disseminated disease. While antibodies were the first vectors applied in TRT, increasing research data has cited antibody fragments and peptides with superior properties and thus a growing interest in application. As further studies are completed and the need for novel radiopharmaceuticals nurtures, rigorous considerations in the design, laboratory analysis, pre-clinical evaluation, and clinical translation must be considered to ensure improved safety and effectiveness. Here, we assess the status and recent development of biological-based radiopharmaceuticals, with a focus on peptides and antibody fragments. Challenges in radiopharmaceutical design range from target selection, vector design, choice of radionuclides and associated radiochemistry. Dosimetry estimation, and the assessment of mechanisms to increase tumor uptake while reducing off-target exposure are discussed.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: about 257 million people are infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) worldwide and the infection is endemic in Africa. The general population HBV seroprevalence remains under-reported in Cameroon. Methods: this was a cross-sectional study including, 1208 consenting adults selected through consecutive sampling, from April 2015 to November 2018, in the Bamenda Health District. Participants´ demographic data were collected and their blood samples were drawn and tested for hepatitis B Surface Antigen (HBsAg). Data were analysed using SPSS version 24 and Chi-squared and Fisher´s exact tests were used to assess bivariate associations. Results: the participants´ mean age (years) was 35.9±11.8, and the majority were females 720 (59.6%). The seroprevalence of HBV infection was 5.8% (95% CI: 4.5-7.3), and was significantly higher in males 8.4% (95% CI: 6.2-11.1), p=0.001, age group 30-39 years 8.4% (95% CI: 5.8-11.6), p=0.007 and the Mankon health area (12.7%; 95% CI: 9.1-17.1), p=0.026. Conclusion: the results suggest that HBV infection could be intermediately endemic in Bamenda, with a higher burden in males, people in their third decade and those from the Mankon health area. This study further underscores a need for extensive screening and vaccination campaigns in Cameroon.
