中国工程科学 (Apr 2024)

Innovative Development of Reactor-Produced Radionuclides and Radiopharmaceuticals

  • Peng Shuming ,
  • Yang Yuchuan ,
  • Yang Xia ,
  • Jia Yaodan ,
  • Huang Zeng ,
  • Zheng Gangyang ,
  • Zhao Xiangeng

DOI
https://doi.org/10.15302/J-SSCAE-2024.02.009
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 26, no. 2
pp. 224 – 233

Abstract

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Radionuclides and radiopharmaceuticals produced by reactors are important components and main material foundations of the nuclear healthcare industry. Therefore, summarizing the current status of reactor-produced radionuclides and radiopharmaceuticals is practically significant for accelerating the development of these products in China and promoting the construction of a self-reliant full-chain system. Through literature review, questionnaire survey, field research, and industry discussions, this study analyzes the supply and demand situation, current status, and trends of reactor-produced radionuclides and radiopharmaceuticals in China and abroad. Currently, China has achieved independent supply of a small number of reactor-produced radionuclides such as 131I, 177Lu, and 89Sr; however, the production capacity of these radionuclides cannot meet domestic demand, and most commonly used radionuclides in clinical practice still rely on imports. Meanwhile, the current reactor-produced radiopharmaceuticals face bottlenecks such as a limited variety of drugs, insufficient research and development innovation, and limited production capacity, making it difficult to meet actual clinical needs. Therefore, the supply and diversification of reactor-produced radionuclides should be ensured considering the current status and trends of their supply and demand. It is necessary to promote the large-scale preparation of reactorproduced radionuclides based on clinical needs, support the development and application of more innovative radiopharmaceuticals, and further accelerate the formation of a self-reliant development system for the reactor-produced radionuclides and radiopharmaceuticals in China. Additionally, it is urgent to enrich development models and form innovative concepts, providing reliable support for the sustainable development of nuclear medicine in China.

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