A new radiolabelled molecule obtained by the association of a ~(177)Lu isotope and a somatostatin-analogue peptide is showing potential as a cancer killer for certain types of tumour. It is being developed by Advanced Accelerator Applications (AAA), a radiopharmaceutical company that was set up in 2002 by Stefano Buono, a former CERN scientist. With its roots in the nuclear-physics expertise acquired at CERN, AAA started its commejcial activity with the production of radiotracers for medical imaging. The successful commercial activity made it possible for AAA to invest in nuclear research to produce innovative radiopharmaceuticals. ~(177)Lu emits both a β particle, which can kill cancerous cells, and a γ ray, which can be useful for SPECT (Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography) imaging. Advanced neuroendocrine tumours can be inoperable, and for many patients there are no therapeutic options. However, about 80% of all neuroendocrine tumours overexpress somatostatin receptors, and the radiolabelled molecule is able to selectively target those receptors. The new radiopharmaceutical acts by releasing the high-energy electrons after internalization in the tumour cells through the receptors. The tumour cells are destroyed by the radiation, and the drug is rapidly cleared from the body via urine. A complete treatment consists of only four injections, one every six to eight weeks.
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