Some molecular targeted compounds can be labeled with radionuclides for imaging by single photon emitted computed tomography (SPECT) and/or PET, as well as beta- and/or alpha-particle emitting radionuclides for targeted radiopharmaceutical therapy (TRT).

In addition to work currently being done with radionuclides, researchers at the MU Research Reactor are developing novel approaches to therapeutic radionuclide production. Their advances have significant potential for large-scale commercial production with industry and pharma partners.

Radiopharmacology Core

In the Radiopharmacology Core (RC), novel receptor-targeted ligands will be evaluated for biodistribution and theranostic potential via in vitro cell-killing efficacy using reactor-produced or other therapeutic radionuclides.

The RC has the capacity to perform in vitro cell binding assays in a variety of human cancer and other types of cell lines. Equipment includes two BSL-2 approved biosafety cabinets, a CO2 incubator, a microtome, a UV-VIS/fluorescence plate reader, and spectrophotometers.