Mathias Kranz

NORTHCARE will develop a new, personalized treatment for glioblastoma (GBM), one of the most aggressive brain cancers. The project combines seeing and treating the tumor in one approach (“radiotheranostics”): copper‑64 enables PET scans to visualize the tumor, while copper‑67 delivers targeted, low‑dose radiation to treat it. To help more of the medicine reach the tumor, we use focused ultrasound together with tiny “microbubbles,” a method that can briefly and safely open the blood–brain barrier so treatment can enter precisely where it is needed. Throughout, we monitor effect and safety with PET/MR and SPECT imaging. By targeting proteins that are typical of the tumor’s microenvironment—such as PSMA in new blood vessels and FAP in the supporting tissue—we can tailor therapy to each patient. The work is carried out at UiT/UNN in Tromsø, which hosts unique facilities for producing copper isotopes and advanced imaging, and involves specialists in radiochemistry, imaging, and tumor biology, together with national and international partners and industry. In addition to testing effectiveness in relevant models, we carefully map safety and radiation doses and use artificial intelligence to analyze images and predict treatment response. The goal is to improve survival and reduce side effects in GBM, while laying the groundwork for clinical trials in Norway and for expanding the approach to other cancers. Over 2025–2028, NORTHCARE aims to deliver scientific publications, patent applications, and a ready‑to‑translate method, strengthening UiT and UNN as leaders in precision medicine and helping patients gain faster access to targeted treatment.