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Updated: Jul 22, 2026
08:01
Rapid Scan Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Opens New Avenues for Imaging Physiologically Important Parameters In Vivo
Published on: September 26, 2016
Robley Evans and what physics can do for medicine.
1Daniel C. Tosteson University Professor, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue-Goldenson 242, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Cancer Biotherapy & Radiopharmaceuticals
|July 27, 2001
Summary
Physicists and physicians collaborated in 1936 to produce radioiodine for thyroid studies. This early work on radioactive iodine (I) advanced understanding of iodine kinetics and Graves' disease treatment.
Area of Science:
- Nuclear physics and endocrinology
- Medical applications of radioisotopes
Background:
- In 1936, a request was made to produce radioiodine for thyroid research.
- This led to the formation of an interdisciplinary team involving physics and medicine.
- The team successfully produced Iodine-128 (128I) for animal studies and Iodine-130 (130I) for human applications.
Discussion:
- The development of radioiodine production marked a significant step in medical research.
- The use of a dedicated medical cyclotron facilitated further advancements.
- Early studies focused on human uptake measurements and hyperthyroidism treatment.
Key Insights:
- Seminal reports from this era significantly advanced the understanding of iodine kinetics.
- Radioiodine therapy for Graves' disease originated from these foundational efforts.
- The research highlighted the effectiveness of radioisotopes in diagnosing and treating thyroid disorders.
Outlook:
- The collaborative model between physicists and physicians serves as a benchmark for interdisciplinary research.
- Continued interdisciplinary efforts are crucial for advancing nuclear medicine and endocrinology.
- This historical collaboration paved the way for modern radioisotope-based medical diagnostics and therapeutics.
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