Harnessing Terbium Radioisotopes for Clinical Advancements: A Systematic Review

Background this systematic review was conducted to assess the practical application of terbium radioisotopes, utilizing systematic search methodologies to identify relevant studies. Methods the databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were systematically scoured, targeting the research on four terbium isotopes: ¹⁴⁹ Tb, ¹⁵² Tb, ¹⁵⁵ Tb, and ¹⁶¹ Tb. Various combinations of keywords related to terbium and its four radioisotopes were used in the search process. The search encompassed studies conducted up to July 27, 2024. Results following the removal of 335 duplicate research articles, a cohort of 429 papers was curated for potential inclusion in the study. Out of 429 articles reviewed, a mere nine addressed the potential uses of ¹⁶¹ Tb and ¹⁵² Tb. Notably, ¹⁵⁵ Tb and ¹⁴⁹ Tb have yet to be examined in human subjects. Conclusions the research trajectory is now veering towards clinical studies that provide in-human data, with the goal of advancing radiotheranostics and nuclear oncology. The preliminary outcomes are stimulating and have led to the initiation of several clinical trials. The success of these trials and the establishment of production facilities will be critical for the clinical adoption of these agents.