The ISOBIOTICS project, coordinated by Dr. Christophe Dugave at CEA (SCBM/DMTS), aims to develop new approaches for the isotopic labeling of biological drugs such as peptides, proteins, oligonucleotides and analogues, with 2H/3H, 13C/14C and 18F through the training of talented young chemists between 2023 and 2027. Fellows will prepare a PhD in 3 or 4 years (depending on their university of affiliation).

ISOBIOTICS: a new strategy for the isotopic labeling of biological drugs

Recent years have seen the clinical introduction of bio-drugs such as peptides, proteins and oligonucleotides, due to their specificity and low toxicity compared to chemical drugs. Analysis of the pharmacokinetics of these bio-drugs requires the incorporation of radioisotopes to trace their distribution in the body. The radiolabeling of biopharmaceuticals represents a major challenge. However, radiolabeling of biopharmaceuticals represents a major challenge, and in order to reduce their immunogenicity, overcome their fragility and increase their ability to reach their target, it is mainly small-scale biologics that are being developed.
The ambition of the ISOBIOTICS project is therefore to develop a new radiolabeling strategy adapted to these particular molecules to
i) advance research and development into biotherapies that are more effective in terms of targeting and less immunogenic, and
ii) train a new generation of radiochemists with a dual academic and industrial culture who will implement these methods to meet the needs of European industry.

Objectives and ambitions :

- Develop new, chemically harmless strategies for late-stage radiolabeling of large peptides, small to medium-sized proteins, oligonucleotides and analogues with deuterium, tritium, carbon-14 (phase 0 preclinical and clinical evaluation) and fluorine-18 (phase I-III clinical trials).
- Train a new generation of talented young PhD students specializing in radiolabeling of bio-products through a combination of interdisciplinary laboratory research, cross-disciplinary and cross-industry secondments, technical courses, scientific conferences and complementary skills workshops.
- Ensure the appropriate dissemination, exploitation and communication of all ISOBIOTICS results to maximize the project's impact and influence.
- Guarantee the employment of students and the sustainability of training structures.