Radionuclides emitting short-range particles and modular nanotransporters for their delivery to target cancer cells

The survey considers radionuclides emitting short-range particles. Methods for the production of most promising alpha- and Auger electron emitters and their applications in nuclear medicine are discussed. Most Auger electron emitters can be produced using ordinary cyclotrons that accelerate protons to energies of 15 or 30 MeV. The production of alpha-emitters is still associated with serious challenges, which hinder their introduction into clinical practice. The main types of vehicles for radionuclide delivery to tumour cells are discussed. The focus is on modular nanotransporters, as the highest cytotoxic effect of ionizing radiation is achieved when radionuclides are complexed with these vehicles. The use of modular nanotransporters will disclose the potentials of many radionuclides that have not so far been regarded as therapeutic agents, specifically 67Ga, In-111 and some other.