The novel Alpha DaRT (Diffusing Alpha-Emitters Radiation Therapy) technology stands out as a promising innovation, especially for prostate and bladder cancers as well as advanced solid tumors. This cutting-edge therapy leverages the potent cell-killing power of alpha particles while overcoming traditional limitations in their use.

Alpha particles are known for their high energy and strong ability to destroy tumor cells. However, their clinical application has been constrained by their extremely short tissue penetration range, which limits effective delivery to tumor sites without harming surrounding healthy tissue. Alpha DaRT overcomes this barrier through a unique delivery system in which tiny seeds coated with the radioactive element radium-224 are implanted directly into tumors. As the radium decays, it emits alpha particles that travel only a few millimeters, confining the radiation damage to the tumor with remarkable precision.

This approach is highly valuable in cancers such as prostate and bladder cancer, where critical structures like the bladder wall, rectum, and urethra must be spared from radiation damage. By placing Alpha DaRT seeds within or adjacent to these tumors, clinicians can administer potent radiotherapy while minimizing adverse effects—a key consideration for patients with localized, recurrent, or hard-to-treat cancers.

Clinical trials running in prostate cancer patients, including those with prior radiation who face limited treatment options, are showing encouraging signs of feasibility and safety. Moreover, preclinical and early clinical evidence suggests Alpha DaRT can not only stall or reverse tumor growth but also elicit a robust immune response, which may enhance the effectiveness of immunotherapies, especially in patients resistant to current treatments.

Source.

Clinical trials.