Lu-177

Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) is a radioactive isotope of lutetium with a half-life of approximately 6.65 days. It decays by beta emission to hafnium-177 (Hf-177), accompanied by the emission of low-energy gamma radiation. These properties make Lu-177 highly valuable for medical applications, particularly in targeted radionuclide therapy. Lu-177 is typically produced in nuclear reactors or cyclotrons through neutron irradiation of enriched lutetium-176.

Lu-177 is primarily used in nuclear medicine for the treatment of cancer. It is a key component in targeted radionuclide therapy (TRT), where it is attached to molecules or antibodies that specifically target cancer cells. For example, Lu-177 DOTATATE is widely used for treating neuroendocrine tumors by binding to somatostatin receptors on cancer cells, while Lu-177 PSMA targets prostate-specific membrane antigen in prostate cancer. The combination of beta radiation for therapeutic purposes and gamma radiation for imaging makes Lu-177 ideal for theranostic applications, enabling both treatment and monitoring of the disease.

Lu-177 is not naturally occurring and must be produced artificially. It is created in nuclear reactors or cyclotrons by neutron activation of enriched lutetium-176. Lu-177 is encountered in controlled medical and research environments, such as hospitals, nuclear medicine facilities, and laboratories specializing in radiopharmaceutical development. Its production, distribution, and use are strictly regulated to ensure safety and efficacy in clinical applications.