α-Emitters for Radiotherapy: From Basic Radiochemistry to Clinical Studies-Part 1.

Poty, Sophie; Francesconi, Lynn C; McDevitt, Michael R; Morris, Michael J; Lewis, Jason S · J Nucl Med · 2018

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

With a short particle range and high linear energy transfer, α-emitting radionuclides demonstrate high cell-killing efficiencies. Even with the existence of numerous radionuclides that decay by α-particle emission, only a few of these can reasonably be exploited for therapeutic purposes. Factors including radioisotope availability and physical characteristics (e.g., half-life) can limit their widespread dissemination. The first part of this review will explore the diversity, basic radiochemistry, restrictions, and hurdles of α-emitters.

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