On the practical aspects of large-scale production of 177Lu for peptide receptor radionuclide therapy using direct neutron activation of 176Lu in a medium flux research reactor: the Indian experience

This paper accentuates on the practical aspects and intricate technicalities involved in the large-scale production of ¹⁷⁷Lu with specific activity >740 GBq mg^?1 following (n,γ)¹⁷⁷Lu route in a medium flux (~1.2 × 10¹⁴ n cm^?2 s^?1 thermal neutron) research reactor. The implication of target burn-up on the specific activity of ¹⁷⁷Lu during irradiation was discussed in detail. ¹⁷⁷Lu obtained from this route has been extensively utilized for targeted therapy in patients with neuroendocrine tumor in India. The important details available from our experience, as well as technical know-how, would be of considerable value for institutions planning to pursue ¹⁷⁷Lu production through (n,γ)¹⁷⁷Lu route.