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More about PRRT Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy Original post April 24, 2019; Updated 12/17/2022 In our previous article, “ These Four Letters: PRRT, An Overview of PRRT ”, we gave an overview on PRRT including a discussion of theranostics and the importance of the Ga-68 scan in determining if a patient is a candidate for PRRT. This article will answer more frequently asked questions and provide links to helpful videos, articles, and patient resources. What is the difference between PRRT, Lu-177 and Lutathera®? NET patients in the United States may see these terms used interchangeably: PRRT Lutetium 177 Dotatate Lu-177 Lutathera® (the brand name for the FDA approved drug) SSTR Therapy PRRT is a class of radioactive drugs that uses a targeting molecule bound to a radiation component. There are other types of PRRT currently being developed that may be available only under clinical trials or in Europe. Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) is a radioisotope used for targeted therapy. Lu177 is linked to a protein, forming Lutetium-177 dotatate, to target the same receptors as Ga-68, Cu-68, lanreotide, and octreotide. Lutathera® is the brand name of radioactive drug or radiopharmaceutical, lutetium-177 (Lu-177) dotatate that is manufactured by Advanced Accelerator Applications (AAA) . Lutathera® is the first in the class of PRRT drugs currently approved by the FDA and available for use in the United States. SSTR therapy is another term for PRRT since it targets the somatostatin receptors. *Note: There are many other “keys” in development, which means hope for future options in NET treatment. Who might be a candidate for PRRT? According to the FDA Approval found here, PRRT is indicated for the treatment of somatostatin receptor-positive gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP-NETs), including foregut, midgut, and hindgut neuroendocrine tumors in adults. Adults (who are not pregnant) with gastorenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. This includes NET in the pancreas or GI tract (stomach, intestines, colon, rectum, appendix). You must have a recent somatostatin imaging scan (i.e. gallium-68 PET/CT or NETSPOT®, gallium-68 PET/MRI, Cu-64 DOTATATE scan or (DETECTNET® ) , or octreotide scan) showing that there are somatostatin receptors present on your tumor cells. Those who have advanced and/or progressive neuroendocrine tumors despite somatostatin analogues and are not a candidate for surgery. Those whose symptoms have not responded to other therapies. Where is PRRT offered? In 2019, the Carcinoid Cancer Foundation launched a website dedicated to providing information about PRRT and the Gallium-68 PET/CT scan. This site also includes an interactive map to locate facilities where PRRT and/or the Gallium-68 PET/CT scan are being offered. Visit CCF’s website here . How can I learn more about PRRT? WATCH: Watch the LACNETS PRRT videos here READ: 2019 NANETS/SNMMI Procedure Standard for Somatostatin Receptor Based Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy with 177Lu-Dotatate 2020 NANETS/SNMMI Consensus Statement on Patient Selection and Appropriate Use of 177Lu-DOTATATE Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy First PRRT Approved by U.S. Food and Drug Administration, NETRF What is Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT)? NETRF Improving PRRT , NETRF SNMMI PRRT fact sheet PRRT is now in the NCCN Guidelines for Patients: Neuroendocrine Tumors and the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (for healthcare professionals): Neuroendocrine and Adrenal Tumors . Check out these helpful patient education materials from Advanced Accelerator Applications: “ Your Guide to NETSPOT® ”addresses frequently asked questions and important safety information about the Ga-68 scan. ​The patient brochure: “ Your Guide to Lutathera Treatment ” answers many frequently asked questions including how Lutathera® is given, what to expect following treatment, and important safety information. It also provides information about AAA PatientCONNECT, a patient assistance program. ​The “ Quick Look at Lutathera®” brochure provides some basic information as well as important safety information. ​ AAA PatientCONNECT is a patient support program including financial assistance and reimbursement support services. ​“ A Journey of Hope ,” describes the journeys of five NET patients and their experiences with PRRT. Written by Lisa Yen, NP, NBC-HWC Director of Programs & Outreach, LACNETS

On May 17th, nearly 70 neuroendocrine cancer patients, their loved ones, clinicians, and industry representatives gathered at the Sandbourne hotel in Santa Monica for an evening of learning, connection, and community. Attendees came from across North America and the greater Los Angeles area, united by a shared commitment to understanding and navigating life with neuroendocrine tumor (NET). The evening opened with a moving personal story—one patient’s account of learning to live in “The Messy Middle.” Her reflections on embracing uncertainty and finding perspective and peace resonated powerfully with the audience, setting a thoughtful and hopeful tone. We then heard from four distinguished NET experts who presented on key areas of care: liver-directed therapies, systemic treatments, PRRT (Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy), and clinical trials. Their presentations were both informative and accessible, helping patients and caregivers better understand current treatment options and the direction of ongoing research. Cohosts Dr. Alexandra Gangi and Dr. Andrew Hendifar moderated two valuable Q&A sessions, where a panel of seven NET specialists answered around 40 questions from those attending. The panelists’ openness, insight, and compassion added tremendous value for those seeking clarity and guidance in their care journey. But education was only part of what made the evening special. The event also offered something rare and vital: the opportunity to connect with others who truly understand the challenges of living with a chronic disease. Conversations flowed freely and stories were exchanged. There was a shared sense of solidarity and strength. Many attendees shared how meaningful it was to be surrounded by people who “get it”—leaving them feeling more inspired, empowered, and less alone. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to NANETS (North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society), whose Regional Educational Event for the medical community, earlier that day, laid the foundation for our gathering. Their expert speakers graciously extended their long Saturday to participate in our session for patients, and we’re grateful for their commitment to the Neuroendocrine Cancer community as a whole. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to share   NANETS.net  with your medical team—so they can learn more about the intricacies of neuroendocrine cancer and the latest in NET research and care. As the evening concluded, one message stood out: we move forward with hope. Hope grounded in community, strengthened by knowledge, and fueled by the ongoing efforts of the brilliant, compassionate minds working toward better outcomes for all affected by neuroendocrine cancer. Thank you to everyone who joined us in Santa Monica. Again a very special thanks to NANETS and our hosts and moderators, Dr. Alexandra Gangi and Dr. Andrew Hendifar from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and our Supporters who made this event possible.  We are grateful for our 9 wonderful speakers: Amoret, NET patient Gabriel Lipshutz, MD, Interventional Radiologist, Cedars-Sinai J. Randolph Hecht, MD, UCLA  Callisia Clarke, MD, Chief of MCW Surgery, Medical College of Wisconsin (Milwaukee Wisconsin) Julie Hallet, MD, MSc., FRCSC, Surgical Oncologist, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center (Toronto, Canada) Thorvardur Halfdanarson, MD, Medical Oncologist, Mayo Clinic (Rochester, Minnesota)  Heloisa Soares, MD, Huntsman Cancer Institute (Salt Lake City, Utah) Linda Gardner, MSN, RN, VA-BC, UCLA The slides from the speaker presentation can be viewed here: Liver-Directed Therapy: Understanding Minimally Invasive Options to Treat Liver Tumors - Gabriel Lipshutz, MD, Interventional Radiologist, Cedars-Sinai Systemic Therapy for NETs: Medical Options for Metastatic Tumors - J. Randolph Hecht, MD, UCLA  PRRT: Current & New Trends - Thorvardur Halfdanarson, MD, Medical Oncologist, Mayo Clinic Clinical Trials: The Latest & Greatest - Heloisa Soares, MD, Huntsman Cancer Institute To find out more about upcoming in-person and virtual Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation events, visit our Upcoming Events & Meetings page . THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

On Saturday, March 29th, 2025, the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation held a Regional Neuroendocrine Patient Educational Event in Tucson, Arizona. Seventy-five members of the Neuroendocrine Cancer community, including patients, caregivers, expert speakers and advocacy representatives, gathered for an afternoon dedicated to learning, connection and hope. The event featured an inspiring story from someone living with Neuroendocrine Tumors (NET) and seven educational presentations covering key topics, including surgery, liver-directed therapy, systemic therapy, PRRT, nursing perspectives, and clinical trials. These sessions were followed by a 50-minute Q&A with a distinguished panel of NET experts, allowing attendees to ask questions and gain valuable insights. Beyond the presentations, the event provided an incredible opportunity for NET patients and caregivers to connect with others who truly understand their journey. We heard from many who felt inspired, empowered, and in great company.   The event highlighted the importance of community, knowledge, and the collective efforts of those dedicated to improving neuroendocrine cancer care and outcomes.  A special thank you to NANETS, who held their Regional Educational Event, for inviting us to share their conference space and expert speakers. They presented comprehensive information about neuroendocrine cancer to medical professionals. Be sure to share NANETS.net  with your doctors so they have an opportunity to learn more about the intricacies of NET.    The message of the day was clear: that we continue to move forward with hope, knowing that many brilliant minds are working diligently and collaboratively for those affected by Neuroendocrine Cancer.  A special thanks to our host and co-moderator, Dr. Junaid Arshad, and the UACC Team. Also, thanks to Dr. Aman Chauhan and Dr. Jaydira Del Rivero, who joined the Q&A panel. We are grateful for our 8 wonderful speakers: Kimberly, NET patient Bassam Sonbol, MD, Medical Oncologist; Mayo Clinic Phoenix Gagandeep Singh, MD, Surgical Oncologist; City of Hope Phoenix Gregory Woodhead, MD, PhD, Interventional Radiologist, University of Arizona Cancer Center Heloisa Soares, MD, PhD, Medical Oncologist; Huntsman Cancer Institute Holly Thompson, MD, MPH, Nuclear Medicine; University of Arizona Cancer Center  Linda Moe, RN, University of Arizona Cancer Center Pamela Kunz, MD, Medical Oncologist; Yale Cancer Center And two additional guest panelists: Aman Chauhan, MD, Medical Oncologist, Sylvester Cancer Center, University of Miami Jaydira Del Rivero, MD, Medical Oncologist and Endocrinologist, National Cancer Institute, National Institute of Health The slides from the speaker presentation can be viewed here: NETs 101: NET Terms & Concepts You Need to Know - Dr. Bassam Sonbol Surgery for NETs: To Cut or Not to Cut? - Dr. Gagandeep Singh Liver-Directed Therapy: Killing Liver Tumors without a Big Scar - Dr. Gregory Woodhead Systemic Therapy for NETs: Treatment Options for Metastatic Tumors - Dr. Heloisa Soares PRRT: Current & New Trends - Dr. Holly Thompson Nursing Perspective on the Management of NETs - Linda Moe, RN Clinical Trials: The Latest & Greatest - Dr. Pamela Kunz Here are additional resources mentioned during the event: LACNETS 2024 Educational Event with Dr. Gagandeep Singh on the “Evolving Management of NET Liver Metastases NCF Surgery Resources NCF Liver-Directed Therapy Resources NCF Clinical Trials Guide including the Ancora.ai neuroendocrine tumor clinical trial finder   Tissue Procurement and Natural History Study of Neuroendocrine Neoplasms (NENs), Including Adrenocortical Carcinoma (ACC) To find out more about upcoming in-person and virtual Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation events, visit our Upcoming Events & Meetings page . THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

Our 2025 NCF Neuroendocrine Tumor Patient Conference is designed for neuroendocrine cancer (NET or neuroendocrine tumor) patients and caregivers to deepen your understanding of NETs. 2025 Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation's Annual Patient Conference Agenda Sponsors Speaker Bios Submit Your Questions Spanish Resources ABOUT THE CONFERENCE Our 2025 virtual annual patient conference is designed for neuroendocrine cancer (NET or neuroendocrine tumor) patients and caregivers to help you identify aspects and factors that matter most about managing your disease. Whether you are newly diagnosed or have been living with NET for many years, we encourage you to watch this virtual conference. Learn from top neuroendocrine cancer experts from across North America, honing in on what matters-- from blood tests to clinical trials. Our experts cover the basics of Neuroendocrine Cancer, imaging, symptom management, surgery, PRRT and systemic treatments. Our speakers focus on what you need to know about that topic to help you understand your disease and next treatment options. Gain insight on what matters most in determining recommendations from expert panel discussions. Hear NET journeys from those living with Neuroendocrine Cancer. LIVE Q&A at the end of the conference presentations. Watching virtually allows you to pause, rewind and replay. There is no cost to attend. This event is made possible by the generosity of donors and sponsors. Note: The Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation was formerly known as LACNETS. Read the full announcement here >>> Agenda AGENDA Q&A SUBMIT YOUR QUESTIONS Have a question? A live Question & Answer session will follow the presentation. Please submit your general questions below. SPANISH RESOURCES Spanish ¿Qué importa sobre: las terapias dirigidas al hígado? Dr. Alejandro Gabutti 2025 NCF Conference Lo Importante de PRRT: ¿Qué es PRRT y Cómo Funciona? Cecilia Carreras Velázquez, MD Medicina Nuclear Hospital Ángeles Lomas 2025 NCF Conference Click here for more Spanish resources >>> THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS Sponsors Visit Crinetics Booth Visit Lantheus Booth Visit Exelixis Booth Visit Curium Booth The information provided is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for medical advice. Talk to your medical team if you have any questions or concerns about your individual care and treatment. The opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not represent the opinion of the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation.

Recursos en Español Información en Español Aquí hay recursos útiles en español para pacientes y cuidadores con tumores neuroendocrinos. A continuación, encontrará videos educativos, grupos de apoyo, historias de pacientes y cuidadores, información útil sobre seguros medicos y otros servicios de apoyo. Haga clic aquí para obtener recursos para los recién diagnosticados. Para comunicarse con LACNETS, envíe un correo electrónico a info@LACNETS.org . Tenga en cuenta que no podemos responder en español. Lo sentimos. Presentaciones Educativas Presentaciones Educativas Mas Videos en español ¿Qué importa sobre: las terapias dirigidas al hígado? Dr. Alejandro Gabutti 2025 NCF Conference Lo Importante de PRRT: ¿Qué es PRRT y Cómo Funciona? Cecilia Carreras Velázquez, MD Medicina Nuclear Hospital Ángeles Lomas 2025 NCF Conference Download "Comprensión de las Guías de losTumores Neuroendocrinos (TNEs)" Presentation Slides >>> Download "Actualizaciónes en los Tumores Neuroendocrinos" Presentation Slides >>> Click here to download the presentation slides. Historias de Pacientes Historias de Pacientes Michél vive con cáncer neuroendocrino. Escuche su historia inspiradora y cómo mantiene la esperanza. ver el vídeo Historias de Pacientes y Cuidadores Historias de Pacientes y Cuidadores Introducción NETs Introducción NETs La “Presentación NETs de Elevador” es una forma de presentarte. La razón por la que se llama de “Elevador" es porque debe ser lo suficientemente breve para poder decirla durante un viaje en elevador. Aprende más aquí Tumores neuroendocrinos Cancer.NET ofrece información sobre los tumores neuroendocrinos. Aprende más aquí Guías ASCO Terapia sistémica para control de tumores en tumores neuroendocrinos gastroenteropancreáticos bien diferenciados metastásicos Publicado antes de su impresión el 29 de septiembre de 2023, DOI: 10.1200/JCO.23.01529 Haga clic aquí "El notorio Feo/Para" - Escrito por Aimee Powell - 23 de agosto de 2021 Información Adicional Información Adicional Un analisis del cancer neuroendocrino The Carcinoid Cancer Foundation proporciona un analisis del cancer neuroendocrino. Haga clic aquí Recursos en español - videos, materiales, y seminarios web Triage Cancer tiene información disponible en español. Haga clic aquí. Haga clic aquí Cancer Support Community Los Angeles - grupos de apoyo CSC ofrece varios grupos de apoyo para pacientes y cuidadores. Haga clic aquí INCA - videos y guías educativas INCA tiene mas información en español sobre tumores neuroendocrinos. Haga clic aquí. Descargue el paquete de información para pacientes de Global NET - haga clic aquí. UCLA Health - meditación guiada UCLA ofrece sesiones de meditación guiadas en español. Haga clic aquí La Sociedad Estadounidense de Oncología Clínica Información confiable y compasiva para personas con cáncer, sus familiares y sus cuidadores, de parte de expertos de la American Society of Clinical Oncology (la Sociedad Estadounidense de Oncología Clínica, ASCO por sus siglas en inglés), la voz de los médicos del cáncer y los profesionales oncológicos del mundo. Haga clic aquí

Learn more about the NET experts presenting on various topics during the 2024 LACNETS Neuroendocrine Tumor Patient Conference. 2025 Conference Speakers << Go back to the 2025 Annual Conference Page Overview of Neuroendocrine Cancer What is Neuroendocrine Cancer? Bhavana Konda, MD, MPH Medical Oncologist, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC) Dr. Bhavana Konda is a Medical Oncologist with expertise in neuroendocrine tumors and endocrine-related cancers. She leads the Neuroendocrine Tumor and Endocrine Medical Oncology Section at the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research is dedicated to advancing treatment options to patients with these rare cancers through innovative clinical trials. Understanding Matters About Biomarkers & Blood Tests Thorvardur Halfdanarson, MD Medical Oncologist, Mayo Clinic Thor R. Halfdanarson, M.D., is a medical oncologist and Professor of Oncology at Mayo Clinic who specializes in the management of patients with neuroendocrine neoplasms, gastrointestinal malignancies and unknown primary malignancies. His specific research interests include the epidemiology, risk factors and treatment of neuroendocrine tumors and neuroendocrine carcinoma and improving outcomes for pancreatic adenocarcinoma and rare types of pancreatic tumors. He is a principal investigator and co-investigator for multiple industry-sponsored and cooperative group clinical trials. Dr. Halfdanarson holds several leadership positions within Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center. He is chair of the Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Cancer Disease Group and co-chair of the Pancreatic/Neuroendocrine Tumor Board. He is associate medical director of the Cancer Clinical Trials Office in Rochester, Minnesota, co-chair of the Feasibility Committee, and a member of the Clinical Research Leadership Committee. He also represents Mayo Clinic on the Neuroendocrine Tumors Guidelines Panel of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN). Dr. Halfdanarson is President Emeritus of the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS) as well. What Matters About Scans Nadine Mallak, MD Radiologist & Nuclear Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University Nadine Mallak, M.D. is a double boarded Associate Professor of Diagnostic Radiology at OHSU, in the divisions of Body Imaging, and Molecular Imaging & Therapy. She received her M.D. degree from Saint Joseph University Medical School in Beirut, Lebanon, followed by a Diagnostic Radiology residency at Hotel Dieu de France, Beirut. Subsequently, she finished fellowships in Neuroradiology and Abdominal Imaging, and a residency in Nuclear Medicine at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Dr. Mallak is the clinical director of the PET/MRI program at OHSU. The scope of her clinical practice encompasses all aspects of molecular imaging and therapy, in addition to abdominal and pelvic imaging with modalities including ultrasound, CT, and MRI. Her research interests focus on molecular and hybrid imaging, particularly for prostate cancer, neuroendocrine tumors and pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma. In addition to her research projects, she’s passionate about education. She was voted by the radiology residents "outstanding teacher of the year" for the year 2019-2020, and by the graduating senior residents “outstanding board reviewer” for the year 2021-2022 In her free time, she enjoys painting, mostly with acrylic and watercolors, reading, hiking, and exploring the gorgeous nature in the Pacific Northwest. What Matters About Symptom Management Vineeth Sukrithan, MD Medical Oncologist, Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center (OSUCCC) Dr. Vineeth Sukrithan is a medical oncologist who specializes in the study and treatment of neuroendocrine cancer, thyroid cancer and adrenocortical cancer. He utilizes traditional chemotherapy, molecularly targeted oral medications, novel immunotherapy and peptide-receptor radiotherapies in the treatment of these unique cancers. As a comprehensive cancer center, the OSUCCC – James has unrivaled experience and expertise in the treatment of neuroendocrine, thyroid and adrenal tumors. Their world-renowned faculty are leaders in the study and treatments of these rare cancers, and as such, they are able to provide their patients with options beyond standard therapies that may not be available anywhere else. The strong focus on translational research at The James means that the treatment breakthroughs of tomorrow are being discovered in their laboratories today. Dr. Sukrithan is part of a tight-knit team of surgical oncologists, radiation oncologists and interventional radiologists who work together to provide cutting-edge care for our patients with neuroendocrine tumors. In addition to his clinical work, Dr. Sukrithan is a member of the Translational Therapeutics Program at the OSUCCC – James and the co-director of the Adrenal Tumor Clinic. He was recently selected to lead an externally funded effort through the International Thyroid Oncology Group to operationalize a multi-institutional registry database for patients with medullary thyroid cancer. Dr. Sukrithan also serves as an assistant professor in the Division of Medical Oncology at The Ohio State University and has completed postdoctoral fellowships in clinical research at Johns Hopkins University. His research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals, including Cancer Research, American Journal of Clinical Oncology and Clinical Lung Cancer. As every individual’s cancer is molecularly unique in countless ways, Dr. Sukrithan believes in tailoring therapies to the individual with the precision made available through cutting-edge scientific research. He feels it is a privilege to make a difference in the lives of patients as we work together to achieve a cancer-free world. Surgery & Local Regional Therapies What Matters About Liver Surgery Julie Hallet, MD, MSc., FRCSC Surgical Oncologist, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center Dr. Hallet is an Associate Professor of Surgery at the University of Toronto and a Surgical Oncologist with a clinical practice devoted to hepato-biliary, pancreatic and upper gastrointestinal malignancies at the Odette Cancer Centre - Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre. Her practice further focuses on neuroendocrine tumors as part of the Susan Leslie Multidisciplinary Clinic for Neuroendocrine Tumors, as well as minimally invasive therapies for cancer treatment. She completed general surgery residency and MSc in clinical epidemiology at Université Laval in Québec City, followed by a Surgical Oncology and hepato-pancreatico-biliary clinical fellowship at the University of Toronto, and additional training in advanced minimally invasive surgery at the Institut de recherche contre les cancers de l’appareil digestif (IRCAD) in Strasbourg, France. Dr. Hallet holds leadership roles in National and International societies. Among those roles, she serves as the Vice-Chair of the Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Disease Site Group of the Society of Surgical Oncology, the Chair of the Early Career Group the International Hepato-Pancreatico-Biliary Association, and a member of the Guidelines Committee of the North American Neuroendocrine Tumors Society, as well as on the executive committees of the Canadian Society of Surgical Oncology and the Canadian Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Association. She is a founding member of the Society of Surgical Ergonomics for which she also chairs the Research and Applied Ergonomics Committee. She also is Associate Section Editor for the Annals of Surgical Oncology, and is part of the Editorial Board of HPB, the World Journal of Surgery, and the British Journal of Surgery. Dr. Hallet’s research focuses on health services research to examine processes of care and outcomes in oncology, with a focus on patient-centred and patient-reported outcomes. To support her research, she has received over $10 millions in operating grants, including from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Ontario Institute of Cancer Research. Dr. Hallet has over 200 peer-reviewed publications, including high-impact papers in JAMA Surgery, JAMA Oncology, the Journal of the NCCN, and Annals of Surgery. What Matters About Liver-Directed Therapy Alejandro Gabutti, MD Interventional Radiologist, National Institute of Medical Sciences and Nutrition Salvador Zubirán (INCMNSZ) University Hospital and National Reference Center for Liver Diseases Dr. Alejandro Gabutti, born in southern Mexico and moved to Mexico City for medical school. He received his medical degree from the UNAM (National University of Mexico) in 2008. After a year working as a general doctor in the mountain region of Chiapas, Mexico, he decided to continue his medical education as a Radiologist. By the year 2006 Alejandro was accepted in the INCMNSZ and completed a 4-year radiology program. Since the very beginning during his radiology training Alejandro showed a special interest in the interventional radiology procedures. He successfully completed a two-year interventional radiology fellowship at the INCMNSZ. At the conclusion of his fellowship, Alejandro was hired as part of the INCMNSZ radiology staff. In 2019 Dr. Gabutti moved to Milan Italy and completed a 1-year internship at the Istituto Nazionale dei Tumori, with special emphasis in oncological liver directed therapies. By his return to Mexico, Alejandro continues working as an Interventional Radiologist at the INCMSNZ, became the Interventional Radiology program professor (UNAM) and keeps working to improve liver malignancies imaging and treatments. Expert Panel: What Matters Most in Making Decisions About Surgery & Local Regional Therapies Daneng Li, MD Medical Oncologist, City of Hope Daneng Li, M.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Medical Oncology & Therapeutics Research at City of Hope Comprehensive Cancer Center, specializing in treating gastrointestinal cancers. Dr. Li currently leads the liver tumors program and is also the co-director of the Neuroendocrine Tumor Program at City of Hope. Dr. Li embraces a multidisciplinary approach to treatment of patients with neuroendocrine tumors. He leads several clinical trials focused on improving outcomes for patients with NETs and works closely with scientists in the development of the next generation of novel therapeutics. Nationally, he has served on several NET committees including the NANETS Research Committee, NANETS Continuing Medical Education Committee, and the Patient-Physician Communication Task Force for the Healing NET Foundation, allowing him to work closely to support NET patient advocacy programs. For all his efforts, he was honored as a recipient of the inaugural 40 Under 40 in Cancer Award during the American Society of Clinical Oncology annual meeting in 2018. Callisia Clarke, MD Surgical Oncologist, Medical College of Wisconsin Dr. Clarke is Chief of Surgical Oncology and Associate Professor of Surgery at the Medical College of Wisconsin with a focus on tumors of the upper gastrointestinal tract, sarcomas, melanomas and regional therapies for advanced malignancies. She specializes in hepato-pancreatic-biliary malignancies, primary and metastatic neuroendocrine tumors, melanoma and sarcoma. Her research efforts focus on personalized cancer care and targeted approaches in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors. Dr. Clarke also serves on the Executive Committee of the Association for Academic Surgery and is the Chair of the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS) Mentoring and Early Career Development Committee. President Biden recently announced she will be appointed as a Member of the National Cancer Advisory Board. Dr. Clarke will play a key role in guiding the Director of the National Cancer Institute in setting the course for the national cancer research program and help advance breakthroughs to prevent, detect, and treat diseases like cancer. Osman Ahmed, MD Interventional Radiologist, University of Chicago Osman Ahmed, MD, is an expert vascular and interventional radiologist who diagnoses and treats a wide range of conditions. Using image-guided technology and small, sophisticated instruments, Dr. Ahmed performs minimally invasive procedures for acute and chronic deep vein thrombosis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, peripheral vascular disease, liver/bone/lung/kidney cancer, spinal fractures, uterine fibroids and more. He also implants inferior vena cava (IVC) filters, which prevent a blood clot from traveling around the body or creating a blockage. In addition to his clinical expertise, Dr. Ahmed researches novel treatment options that improve outcomes for patients. His research on liver cancer, IVC filters and venous diseases has been published in several high-impact, peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Vascular and Interventional Radiology, Radiology, Chest, Journal of American College of Radiology, and Journal of Surgical Oncology. Dr. Ahmed also believes in the importance of educating medical students, residents, fellowships and peers in order to enhance health care across the world. He has been invited to speak at a number of symposiums, practicums and national/international meetings about the newest advancements in interventional radiology. William C. Chen, MD Radiation Oncologist, University of California San Francisco Dr. William C. Chen is a radiation oncologist and translational researcher. Dr. Chen received his undergraduate degree from Johns Hopkins University and completed medical school at the University of California, San Francisco. He completed his internal medicine preliminary internship at Kaiser San Francisco, followed by a residency in Radiation Oncology at UCSF. He is a Chan Zuckerburg Biohub Physician Scientist Fellow and a Helen Diller Family Cancer Center Physician Scientist Program in Clinical Oncology (PSPCO) Fellow. His research focuses on biomarker development, informatics, and clinical trial development with a focus on meningiomas and other malignancies of the central nervous system and beyond. Medical Management & Sequencing Treatments What Matters About Systemic Treatments Jennifer Chan, MD, MPH Medical Oncologist, Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Jennifer Chan, MD, MPH is an Associate Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Institute Physician in the Division of Medical Oncology at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston, MA. Dr. Chan focuses her clinical practice on the care of patients with neuroendocrine tumors and gastrointestinal cancers. She is the Director of the Program in Neuroendocrine and Carcinoid Tumors and Clinical Director for the Gastrointestinal Cancer Center at the Dana-Farber/Brigham and Women's Cancer Center. Dr. Chan has been principal investigator of multiple clinical trials investigating novel therapies for neuroendocrine tumors and has been involved in studies examining factors associated with clinical outcomes in patients with neuroendocrine tumors. She is a past chair of the Guidelines Committee of the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS) and President of NANETS. Dr. Chan serves on the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Neuroendocrine Tumors Guidelines Panel. She is a member of the Neuroendocrine Tumor Taskforce of the National Cancer Institute and the Board of Directors of NANETS. What Matters About PRRT: What is PRRT & How Does It Work? Cecilia Carreras Velázquez Nuclear Medicine, Hospital Ángeles Lomas Dr. Cecilia Carreras Velázquez is a board-certified specialist in Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, based in Mexico City. Graduated with honors from Centro Médico ABC (UNAM) in 2010 and completed a fellowship in Molecular Imaging in 2011. From 2012 to 2024, she served as Head of the Nuclear Medicine and PET/CT Department at Hospital Angeles Lomas, where she led the integration of advanced technology and the expansion of radionuclide-based diagnostic and therapeutic services. Pioneer in Mexico in implementing Lutetium-177 therapy for patients with Neuroendocrine Tumors and metastatic prostate cancer. In June 2024, Dr. Carreras assumed the position of Medical Director of Nuclear Medicine at the National Center for Radiology and Imaging within the Angeles Health System Hospitals in Mexico. Dr. Carreras has international experience, having collaborated with the research team at PET-Zentrum of Zentralklinik Bad Berka in Germany, focused on radionuclide therapies for neuroendocrine tumors. Since 2020, she has been a member of the Patient Safety and Quality Committee at Hospital Angeles Lomas, and in 2022, she was appointed Mexico Ambassador for the Oncidium Foundation, advocating for innovations in cancer treatment through nuclear medicine. For over a decade, she has actively participated in educational initiatives, specialty dissemination efforts, and patient-focused forums to enhance understanding and access to nuclear medicine advancements. What Matters About PRRT: Preventing and Managing Toxicities & Latest Advances Aman Chauhan, MD Medical Oncologist, University of Miami Health System Aman Chauhan, MD, earned his medical degree from the Kasturba Medical College in Manipal, Karnataka, India, followed by a dual residency in internal medicine and pediatrics at Louisiana State University in New Orleans. Dr. Chauhan completed his fellowship in hematology and oncology at the University of Kentucky, especially focusing on neuroendocrine tumor (NETs). Additionally, Dr. Chauhan completed a Cancer Therapy Evaluation Program (CTEP) physician externship at the National Cancer institute (NCI) that focused on designing clinical trials and clinical research projects. His clinical interests include treating NETs, including carcinoid tumors, high-grade neuroendocrine carcinomas, and small and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma. Dr Chauhan leads the University of Miami Neuroendocrine Cancer Program and co-leads Sylvester Theranostics Drug Development Program. He is national principal investigator on several investigator initiated neuroendocrine cancer clinical trials. He has authored over 70 scientific publications and book chapters and has received a career development award from NCI CTEP. Dr Chauhan also serves on AJCC and ASCO NET guideline committees and is an active member of NANETS communication committee. Dr. Chauhan is board certified in internal medicine and medical oncology. He is a member of the American Society of Clinical Oncology as well as the American Association of Cancer Research and the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society. What Matters About Clinical Trials Pamela Kunz, MD Medical Oncologist, Yale Medicine Dr. Pamela Kunz is an Associate Professor of Medicine in the Division of Oncology at Yale School of Medicine where she also serves as the Director of the Center for GI Cancers and Division Chief of GI Medical Oncology at Yale Cancer Center and Smilow Cancer Hospital. She received her medical degree from the Dartmouth Geisel School of Medicine. Her postgraduate training included a medical residency, chief residency, and oncology fellowship at Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Kunz is an international leader in the treatment and clinical research of patients with GI malignancies and neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). She holds several key leadership positions in the field including past President of the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society, recent past Chair of the Neuroendocrine Tumor Taskforce of the NCI and standing member of FDA’s Oncology Drug Advisory Committee. Dr. Kunz was recently appointed Editor-in-Chief of JCO Oncology Advances. In addition to her focus on NETs, she is a leading voice for promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in medicine. She served as the Vice Chief of DEI for the Section of Medical Oncology at Yale School of Medicine and in 2021. Dr. Kunz was awarded ‘Woman Oncologist of the Year’ by Women Leaders in Oncology for her work in promoting gender equity and received the 2024 'Distinguished Mentor Award' by the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society. X @PamelaKunzMD Expert Panel: What Matters Most in Making Decisions About Systemic Therapies & Sequencing Treatments J. Randolph Hecht, MD Medical Oncologist, UCLA Health Dr. Hecht is a Professor of Clinical Medicine in the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA School of Medicine. He holds the Carol and Saul Rosenzweig Chair for Cancer Therapies Development and is the Director of the UCLA Gastrointestinal Oncology Program. Dr. Hecht attended medical school at Eastern Virginia Medical School. He took his internal medicine residency at Northwestern and completed fellowships in gastroenterology research at the University of Chicago, and in gastroenterology and medical oncology at UCLA. Dr. Hecht is an internationally known clinical and translational researcher in the field of gastrointestinal cancers. He has published widely on the molecular biology, early detection, and treatment of gastrointestinal malignancies. He has lead and is currently directing small trials with new molecules as well as large international randomized trials. Current ongoing research includes preclinical models of therapy with biological agents, early studies with gene therapy vectors and tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and leading phase II and phase III trials with novel agents. Alexandra Gangi, MD Division Director of Surgical Oncology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Dr. Alexandra Gangi is a board-certified surgical oncologist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles. Dr. Gangi completed a general surgical residency at Cedars-Sinai and completed her surgical oncology fellowship at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. She currently serves as the Division Director of Surgical Oncology and Director of the Gastrointestinal Tumor and Cancer Regional Therapies Programs with specialization in Pancreatic and GI Neuroendocrine tumors, Metastatic colorectal cancer, and Peritoneal Surface Malignancies. Her research focuses on understanding GEPNET heterogeneity between and within tumors subtypes and mechanisms of chemotherapy induced liver injury. Eric Mittra, MD, PhD Nuclear Medicine, Oregon Health & Science University Dr. Mittra received his medical and graduate training through the MSTP (joint MD/PhD) program at Stony Brook University in New York in 2005. His master’s degree was in Anatomical Sciences, and his PhD in Biomedical Engineering. He subsequently completed a Nuclear Medicine residency and fellowship at Stanford University. He was faculty in Radiology at Stanford for 8 years, until moving to OHSU in 2018. Dr. Mittra is interested in all aspects of Nuclear Medicine imaging, therapy, and research. This includes adult and pediatric general nuclear medicine imaging with gamma camera and SPECT, PET imaging for oncology, cardiac, and neurologic applications, as well as bone densitometry (DXA imaging). Targeted Radioisotope Therapies (TRT) are of particular interest; including various applications in oncology and he is a nationally-recognized expert in this area. His research interests are primarily focused on the clinical translation of novel radioisotopes for imaging and therapy. He very involved with the Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SNMMI), the North American Neuroendocrine Tumor Society (NANETS), and is the current Medical Director of the Healing NET Foundation (HNF). David B. Zhen, MD Medical Oncologist, Fred Hutch Cancer Center Dr. David Zhen is a medical oncologist who specializes in treating patients with gastrointestinal cancers. His research centers around the development of clinical trials evaluating new therapies and combination approaches for the treatment of patients with gastrointestinal cancers, particularly pancreatic and gastroesophageal cancers. He is also conducting research to understand the interactions of the immune system in gastrointestinal cancers and how this can be manipulated to improve upon the response to immunotherapy drugs called checkpoint inhibitors, which block a braking system that cancers use to tamp down the immune response. Moderators: MARY DONLEVY NCF Board member and NET Patient Advocate Mary Donlevy joined the NCF Board in 2020. She brings the patient perspective as she has been thriving despite living with pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor since 2005. She has been close friends with LACNETS Founder Giovanna Joyce since 2010 and involved with LACNETS since then. Mary has served as a NET CONNECT mentor and Advisory Committee member. She has been actively involved in the monthly meetings and virtual NET support groups. Mary received her Bachelor's Degree in Communications from University of San Diego and has over 10 years of medical and sales training. Her passion is to help those dealing with this difficult diagnosis and still enjoy a very full and active life. She is the mother of four children, two of which are identical twins, born after her cancer diagnosis. Mary enjoys ocean swimming, yoga and traveling with her husband and children in her free time. Andrew Hendifar, MD Medical Oncologist, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center The current research focus of Andrew Hendifar, MD, is on developing new therapies for pancreatic cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. Dr. Hendifar has helped form multidisciplinary teams that specialize in the treatments of pancreatic cancer, and carcinoid and neuroendocrine tumors. Dr. Hendifar is the primary investigator for several groundbreaking therapies, including radioimmunotherapy for neuroendocrine tumors, anti-inflammatory therapy for pancreatic cancer and novel approaches to cancer cachexia. His national roles include SWOG GI Committee Member and a member of NIH Neuroendocrine Tumor Task Force. He also serves as the steering committee member for the Precision Promise Consortium and chairs the associated Supportive Care Committee. At Cedars-Sinai, he leads the Gastrointestinal Disease Research Group and is the founding Director of the Hematology and Oncology Fellowship Program. << Go back to the 2025 Annual Conference Page