Russian Scientists Develop Terbium-161 Technology for Cancer Treatment

Researchers at the Research Institute of Nuclear Materials (INM JSC), part of Rosatom’s Scientific Division in Zarechny, Sverdlovsk Oblast, have mastered the production technology for the terbium-161 isotope, a breakthrough offering a new method for effective radiation therapy to treat cancer, according to Rosatom Science. This is the first time the medical isotope has been produced in Russia.
The therapeutic potential of terbium-161 lies in its emission of beta particles and Auger electrons, which make it highly effective when incorporated into radiopharmaceuticals. Plans are underway to develop a new generation of radiopharmaceuticals based on this radionuclide.
Dr. Andrey Stanzhevsky, an Associate Professor and Deputy Research Director at the A.M. Granov Russian Scientific Center for Radiology and Surgical Technologies, said that preclinical studies indicated that terbium-161 delivers a radiation dose approximately 1.5 times higher than comparable isotopes. This allows for a reduced dosage, minimizing radiation exposure to patients and protecting healthy tissues and organs.
Scientists are exploring additional applications for terbium-161, citing its unique physical and chemical properties and broad radiation spectrum. This versatility suggests it could serve as a foundation for developing diverse radiopharmaceuticals targeting various tumor types and other conditions requiring precision radiotherapy.
Evgeny Seleznev, Director of INM JSC, highlighted the importance of providing Russian citizens with access to cutting-edge radiation therapy in domestic healthcare facilities. The production of terbium-161 reflects Rosatom’s commitment to enhancing Russia’s national healthcare infrastructure and supporting innovative treatment methods.
One of Russia’s leading medical research centers, the A.M. Granov Center specializes in radiology, surgical techniques, and radiopharmaceutical development. It conducts extensive oncology and nuclear medicine research, aiming to improve the quality and accessibility of cancer care across the country.
The production of terbium-161 starts with gadolinium-160, supplied by Rosatom’s Elektrokhimpribor. This ensures a reliable and efficient supply chain for isotope production.
Russia’s nuclear sector continues to lead in the production of radioactive and stable isotopes for medical use, contributing to healthcare modernization and expanding access to advanced medical technologies.
Rosatom and its subsidiaries remain pivotal in these efforts, developing innovative solutions to enhance patient care, according to the Russian state corporation headquartered in Moscow. Rosatom’s Scientific Division is leading innovative research in nuclear and non-nuclear fields, including nuclear medicine, thermonuclear fusion, and the closure of the nuclear fuel cycle. The division encompasses 13 research institutes and commercial enterprises, with robust infrastructure supporting projects from fundamental research to prototype development.
Founded in 1966, INM JSC specializes in reactor testing and post-reactor studies for the nuclear industry. Its facilities include the IVV-2M research reactor, hot cells, and radiochemical equipment, enabling advanced isotope production and material science research.
Isotope JSC, Rosatom’s industry integrator, markets isotope products globally and domestically, supplying to over 170 foreign companies and approximately 600 Russian organizations. Its portfolio supports diagnostic and treatment services for more than 2.5 million patients worldwide annually.