In Vivo Models for the Performance and Safety of BAT-90, a Novel 90-Yttrium-based Internal Radiotherapy Platform

Background/aim: BAT-90 is an innovative active implantable device designed for the irradiation of unresectable tumors (e.g., liver cancer) or surgical tumor beds, based on the combination of Yttrium-90 beta-emitting microspheres and a tissue adhesive hydrogel, currently used in cardio-vascular surgery. The rationale behind BAT-90 is to localize the Yttrium-90 activity on the administration site, while minimizing its body dispersion.

Materials and methods: The effective induction of necrosis in the target injection area was tested in a pig liver model, whereas the safety of BAT-90 was assessed and demonstrated in biocompatibility tests for acute systemic toxicity, intracutaneous reactivity, delayed hypersensitivity and subcutaneous implantation.

Results: BAT-90 administration induced necrosis into the target site, while the safety experiments in the treated animals highlighted results very similar to the controls.

Conclusion: BAT-90 could be considered as a safe and innovative treatment option for inoperable solid tumors of the liver.