Global experience with PSMA-based alpha therapy in prostate cancer

PURPOSE: This review discusses the current state of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-based alpha therapy of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). With this in-depth discussion on the growing field of PSMA-based alpha therapy (PAT), we aimed to increase the interactions between basic scientists and physician–scientists in order to advance the field. METHODS: To achieve this, we discuss the potential, current status, and opportunities for alpha therapy and strategies, attempted to date, and important questions that need to be addressed. The paper reviews important concepts, including whom to treat, how to treat, what to expect regarding treatment outcome, and toxicity, and areas requiring further investigations. RESULTS: There is much excitement about the potential of this field. Much of the potential exists because these therapies utilize unique mechanisms of action, difficult to achieve with other conventional therapies. CONCLUSION: A better understanding of the strengths and limitations of PAT may help in creating an effective therapy for mCRPC and design a rational combinatorial approach to treatment by targeting different tumor pathways.