About On target laboratories
On Target Laboratories: Illuminating Cancer for Complete Removal
On Target Laboratories is a pioneering biotechnology company that specializes in the discovery and development of targeted intraoperative molecular imaging agents. These agents are designed to illuminate cancer during surgery, enabling surgeons to remove it completely and with greater precision. With its cutting-edge technology and innovative approach, On Target Laboratories is at the forefront of the fight against cancer.
The company was founded in 2010 by Dr. Philip Low, a renowned chemist and professor at Purdue University. Dr. Low's research focused on developing new ways to target cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue, which led him to create a novel class of molecules called activatable cell-penetrating peptides (ACPPs). These peptides are able to selectively bind to cancer cells and become fluorescent when activated by enzymes produced by those cells.
On Target Laboratories has since built upon this breakthrough discovery, developing a range of ACPP-based imaging agents that can be used in various types of cancer surgeries. The company's lead product is OTL38, which has been shown in clinical trials to improve surgical outcomes for patients with ovarian and lung cancers.
OTL38 works by binding specifically to folate receptors that are overexpressed on the surface of many types of cancer cells. When activated by enzymes produced by these cells, OTL38 emits near-infrared light that can be detected using specialized cameras during surgery. This allows surgeons to see exactly where the tumor is located and ensure that all affected tissue is removed.
In addition to OTL38, On Target Laboratories has several other ACPP-based imaging agents in development for different types of cancers. These include OTL78 for breast cancer, OTL88 for prostate cancer, and OTL148 for pancreatic cancer.
One key advantage of On Target Laboratories' technology is its ability to provide real-time feedback during surgery. By illuminating tumors as they are being removed, surgeons can immediately confirm that they have removed all cancerous tissue and avoid the need for additional surgeries. This can lead to better outcomes for patients, as well as reduced healthcare costs.
Another advantage of On Target Laboratories' technology is its potential to improve cancer diagnosis. By using ACPP-based imaging agents in conjunction with traditional imaging techniques like CT scans and MRIs, doctors may be able to more accurately identify the location and extent of tumors before surgery. This could lead to earlier detection and treatment of cancer, which is critical for improving survival rates.
On Target Laboratories has received significant funding from both public and private sources, including grants from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and investments from venture capital firms. The company has also formed partnerships with leading medical institutions such as Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Mayo Clinic.
In conclusion, On Target Laboratories is a game-changing biotechnology company that is revolutionizing cancer surgery through its innovative ACPP-based imaging agents. With its focus on precision medicine and real-time feedback, On Target Laboratories has the potential to significantly improve outcomes for cancer patients while reducing healthcare costs. As the company continues to develop new products and expand its partnerships, it will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of this important field.