Scientists develop an automated synthesis module for radiopharmaceuticals

Radiopharmaceuticals (RPs) are a special type of drug containing radioactive isotopes that are used to diagnose and treat various diseases. These medicines can be used both for modern, high-precision diagnosis of various diseases (mainly cancer) and for their treatment.

Radiopharmaceuticals are based on molecules that specifically bind to certain receptors or tissues in the body, allowing the radioactive isotope to be delivered to the right place and maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment. However, the production of radiopharmaceuticals is still extremely costly and relies heavily on foreign components.

As part of the programme for the development of the WCRC for Personalized Medicine of the national project "Science and Universities", a module for the automated synthesis of RPs based on radiometals, including alpha and beta emitters, is being developed, which will enable Russian equipment to be built as part of import substitution.

All parts of the module are disposable, reducing the time required to prepare the module for synthesis of subsequent series of diagnostic and/or therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. The use of disposable components also allows safe handling of long half-life isotopes without exposing personnel to increased radiation. The use of non-individual, disposable components allows the use of components from different manufacturers, which benefits the continuity of radiopharmaceutical production and increases the availability of examinations for patients.

24.01.2024