When discussing Radioligand Therapy or Radioisotope Therapy, there are two key components: the radioactive substance and the targeting ligand or vector.
The targeting vector can be a peptide, a small molecule, or a monoclonal antibody, while the radioactive isotope might be an alpha emitter or a beta emitter, such as Lutetium-177 or Actinium-225. For imaging purposes, isotopes like Gallium or Fluorine-18 are used.
The process of labeling these components occurs in a specialized Hot Lab. This labeling procedure is a precise chemical process that must be performed in a sterile environment. It requires highly skilled radiochemists, proper infrastructure, and meticulous quality controls. The entire labeling process needs to be conducted under positive pressure in a contamination-free lab.
The chemicals used in this reaction must be pure and fresh. The process demands well-qualified and experienced radiochemists. The quality of labeling distinguishes a high-quality institute from a mediocre one. Improper labeling of the radioisotope can result in the radioactive substance traveling to unintended areas in the patient’s body, such as the liver or bone marrow, or it might dissociate from its ligand, causing significant harm or damage.
Therefore, when choosing a nuclear medicine therapy center, it is crucial to ensure that the lab and professionals are trained and adhere to compliant practices for optimal treatment outcomes.
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The content provided on this video is for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.