Making Targeted Alpha Therapy Possible

Nuclear Masterclass Webinar Series

Targeted alpha therapy is a new approach to cancer treatment. It uses the destructive property of alpha radiation to kill cancer cells, while leaving healthy tissues unharmed.  

For these treatments to work, the radioactive atom that emits the alpha radiation must be correctly attached to a targeting molecule that guides the radioisotope to the cancer cells. How can we be sure that this has worked?

Before a treatment can be given to a patient, scientists must test it to check that it’s safe and correctly prepared. One important test is called radiochemical purity, which checks whether the radioactive material is properly attached to the targeting molecule.

In this talk, we’ll explore how scientists design quality control procedures to meet the unique challenges of working with alpha emitting radioisotopes, and why these checks are essential for making targeted alpha therapy possible. 

This webinar is part of the Nuclear Physics Masterclasses. GCSE (or equivalent) students can register to attend the full Pre-16 Nuclear Masterclass and A-level students (or equivalent) can register to attend the full Post-16 Nuclear Masterclass. The webinars are open to all.