On the practical aspects of large-scale production of 177Lu for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy using direct neutron activation of 176Lu in a medium flux research reactor: the Indian experience

Abstract

This paper accentuates on the practical aspects and intricate technicalities involved in the large-scale production of 177Lu with specific activity >740 GBq mg−1 following (n,γ)177Lu route in a medium flux (~1.2 × 1014 n cm−2 s−1 thermal neutron) research reactor. The implication of target burn-up on the specific activity of 177Lu during irradiation was discussed in detail. 177Lu obtained from this route has been extensively utilized for targeted therapy in patients with neuroendocrine tumor in India. The important details available from our experience, as well as technical know-how, would be of considerable value for institutions planning to pursue 177Lu production through (n,γ)177Lu route.