Somatostatin receptor subtype 2 (SSTR2) is a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) that binds somatostatin and its analogs, playing a critical role in regulating endocrine and exocrine secretion, cell proliferation, and neurotransmission. It is highly expressed in neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), including pituitary adenomas, pancreatic NETs, and gastroenteropancreatic tumors, making it a key diagnostic and therapeutic target. SSTR2 antibodies are immunological tools designed to detect and quantify SSTR2 expression in tissues or cells, aiding in tumor characterization, prognosis assessment, and patient stratification for targeted therapies.
The development of SSTR2 antibodies stems from the need to identify tumors amenable to somatostatin analog-based therapies (e.g., octreotide, lanreotide) or peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT). These antibodies are widely used in immunohistochemistry (IHC) to confirm SSTR2 presence in biopsy samples, guiding clinical decisions. Recent advances also explore their utility in molecular imaging and as therapeutic agents in antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
Challenges include variability in antibody specificity due to receptor isoforms or post-translational modifications. Standardization of antibody validation and staining protocols remains critical for clinical reliability. Research continues to optimize SSTR2-targeted diagnostics and therapeutics, emphasizing personalized approaches in oncology.