Skip to main page content
U.S. flag

An official website of the United States government

Dot gov

The .gov means it’s official.
Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

Https

The site is secure.
The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

Access keys NCBI Homepage MyNCBI Homepage Main Content Main Navigation
Review
. 2025;18(3):159-173.
doi: 10.2174/0118744710337420250102054532.

Harnessing Radionuclides: Unveiling the Promising Role of Radiopharmaceuticals in Cancer Theranostics and Palliative Care

Affiliations
Review

Harnessing Radionuclides: Unveiling the Promising Role of Radiopharmaceuticals in Cancer Theranostics and Palliative Care

Mihai Cozmin et al. Curr Radiopharm. 2025.

Abstract

Introduction: In the context of modern oncology, radiogenic elements have emerged as pivotal tools for targeted cancer therapies. Elements like Iodine-131 and Yttrium-90 offer unique radiological properties that allow precise treatment delivery. This article explores their growing importance and potential in reshaping the landscape of cancer therapy.

Methods: Utilizing a systematic literature search, relevant studies, clinical trials, and research articles were collected from databases. The selected material was scrutinized to extract insights into the mechanisms, applications, advantages, and challenges of radiogenic elements. These results are combined in the study to give a perceptive picture of how contemporary oncology treatment is developing.

Results: The article reveals a comprehensive analysis of the outcomes derived from the study of radiogenic elements in contemporary cancer treatment. The results highlight the diverse applications of radionuclides like Iodine-131, Yttrium-90, and actinides in targeted therapies. It showcases their ability to selectively damage cancer cells while sparing healthy tissues, emphasizing precision and efficacy. The review underscores the increasing importance of personalized medicine, combination therapies, and the potential of emerging alpha-particle-based treatments. Furthermore, the results shed light on the challenges posed by radiation safety and potential side effects, prompting a need for vigilant management. This comprehensive examination of results provides a nuanced understanding of the pivotal role that radiogenic elements play in shaping the future of modern oncology therapy.

Conclusion: The article examines the role of radiogenic elements in contemporary cancer treatment. It highlights the significance of elements like 131I, 90Y, and actinides in targeted therapies, discussing their mechanisms and applications. The article emphasizes personalized medicine, combination therapies, and emerging alpha-particle-based treatments. Challenges, including radiation safety and side effects, are also addressed. The review anticipates a promising future where radiogenic elements contribute to precise, effective, and patient-centered cancer care.

Keywords: Iodine-131; Radiogenic elements; Yttrium-90; actinides.; cancer treatment; modern oncology therapy.

PubMed Disclaimer

References

    1. Saha G.B.; Fundamentals of Nuclear Pharmacy 2018,428 - DOI
    1. Friedlander G.; Kennedy J.W.; Macias E.S.; Miller J.M.; Nuclear and radiochemistry 1981
    1. Vallabhajosula S.; Molecular Imaging and Targeted Therapy 2023,708 - DOI
    1. Estorch M.; Eightieth anniversary of Iodine-131: A history of Nuclear Medicine. Rev Esp Med Nucl Imagen Mol 2022,41(1),66 - DOI - PubMed
    1. International Atomic Energy Agency. Cyclotron produced radionuclides: Principles and practice. Technical Reports Series No 465, IAEA, Vienna https://www-pub.iaea.org/MTCD/Publications/PDF/trs465_web.pdf2008,230

MeSH terms

LinkOut - more resources