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Updated: Feb 3, 2026

A Whole Body Dosimetry Protocol for Peptide-Receptor Radionuclide Therapy PRRT: 2D Planar Image and Hybrid 2D+3D SPECT/CT Image Methods
Published on: April 24, 2020
Targeted Alpha Particle Therapy for Neuroendocrine Tumours: The Next Generation of Peptide Receptor Radionuclide
Shaunak Navalkissoor1, Ashley Grossman2
1Department of Nuclear Medicine, ENETS Centre of Excellence, Royal Free Hospital, London, United Kingdom, s.navalkissoor@nhs.net.
Abstract:
Neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) are being seen increasingly frequently, but to date only complete surgical resection is curative. However, among the various therapeutic options, peptide receptor radionuclide therapy, linking a radioactive moiety to an octreotide derivative, has been shown to be highly efficacious and a well-tolerated therapy, improving progression-free survival and probably overall survival. Nevertheless, the current radionuclides in use are beta particle emitters with non-optimal radiobiological properties. A new generation of alpha particle-emitting radionuclides is being developed, with advantages in terms of very high energy and a short path length, which should theoretically show higher efficacy. We survey the current developments in this field, emphasising the exciting potential of this novel form of therapy for NETs.
Insights
New alpha particle therapies show promise for treating neuroendocrine tumors (NETs), offering potentially higher efficacy than current beta particle treatments. This research explores advancements in alpha radionuclide development for NETs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nuclear Medicine
- Radiochemistry
Background:
- Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are increasingly prevalent, with complete surgical resection being the only curative option.
- Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) using beta emitters is effective but has radiobiological limitations.
- Current PRRT improves progression-free and overall survival in NET patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the latest developments in alpha particle-emitting radionuclides for NET therapy.
- To highlight the theoretical advantages of alpha emitters over beta emitters for NET treatment.
- To emphasize the potential of novel alpha-radionuclide therapies for NET management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on alpha particle-emitting radionuclides.
- Analysis of the radiobiological properties of alpha vs. beta emitters.
- Survey of emerging therapeutic strategies for neuroendocrine tumors.
Main Results:
- Alpha particle emitters offer higher energy and shorter path lengths compared to beta emitters.
- These properties theoretically translate to increased efficacy in targeting NET cells.
- Development of new alpha-emitting radionuclides is a key focus in NET therapy research.
Conclusions:
- Alpha particle-emitting radionuclides represent a promising next generation for NET therapy.
- This novel approach has the potential to significantly improve treatment outcomes for NET patients.
- Further research and clinical development are crucial for realizing the full potential of alpha-PRRT.
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