Development of a LRRC15-Targeted Radio-Immunotheranostic Approach to Deplete Pro-tumorigenic Mechanisms and Immunotherapy Resistance

Abstract

Leucine-rich repeat containing 15 (LRRC15) has emerged as an attractive biomarker and target for cancer therapy. We have developed a humanized monoclonal antibody (mAb), DUNP19, that specifically binds to a phylogenetically conserved LRRC15 epitope and is internalized by target-expressing cancer and stromal cells. In xenograft mouse models, Lutetium-177 labeled DUNP19 ([177Lu]-DUNP19) enables non-invasive imaging and precise radiotherapy to LRRC15-expressing cancer cells and murine cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), halting tumor progression and prolonging survival with minimal toxicity. Transcriptomic analyses of [177Lu]-DUNP19-treated tumors reveal a loss of pro-tumorigenic mechanisms, including a transforming growth factor beta (TGF{beta})-driven and LRRC15+ signature associated with immunotherapy resistance. Together, these results demonstrate that radio-theranostic targeting of LRRC15 with DUNP19 is a compelling precision medicine platform for image-guided diagnosis, eradication, and reprogramming of LRRC15+ tumor tissue that drives immuno-resistance and aggressive disease. SIGNIFICANCEWe introduce a pioneering LRRC15-guided radio-theranostic approach integrating clinical imaging and radioimmunotherapy. Our strategy utilizes a mAb, DUNP19, to target LRRC15-expressing cancer cells and fibroblasts, demonstrating significant tumor reduction, prolonged survival, and reversal of TGF{beta}-driven treatment resistance. This approach offers a promising strategy for improving outcomes in aggressive cancers.