Article

Lutetium-177, also known as Lu-177, is a groundbreaking medical isotope. While it was primarily used a few years ago to treat a specific type of cancer called neuroendocrine tumors, it is now also employed in the treatment of prostate cancer. The Netherlands plays a significant role in the production of this remarkable particle.

Lu-177 is the radioactive form of the metal lutetium with unique properties. It emits beta radiation, which can specifically destroy cancer cells, and simultaneously produces a small amount of gamma radiation, also known as photons. This gamma radiation is visible on scans, allowing doctors to directly monitor the treatment. Thus, it is possible to see if the Lu-177 has reached the target area immediately after administration.

15,000 New Cases

This method is mainly used to treat prostate cancer and neuroendocrine tumors. Neuroendocrine tumors are rare forms of cancer that originate in the hormone-producing cells of the body and often develop slowly. According to figures from the Dutch Cancer Registry (NKR), over 15,000 new cases of prostate cancer and nearly 1,000 cases of neuroendocrine tumors were registered in 2024. These numbers continue to rise, highlighting the importance of new treatments such as those involving Lu-177.

Precision Targeting

What makes Lu-177 so special? It all comes down to one thing: precision. Traditional chemotherapy often affects the entire body, leading to many side effects. However, Lu-177 primarily targets cancer cells. This is because Lu-177 is attached to a molecule that binds to specific characteristics of the cancer cells. This makes the treatment much more effective with fewer side effects. It's a win-win! Since each type of tumor has different characteristics, various molecules are used.

An example of a promising treatment currently being researched at the Antoni van Leeuwenhoek Hospital is Lu-177-PSMA therapy for patients with metastatic prostate cancer. The molecule with Lu-177 specifically targets a protein (PSMA) that is mainly found on prostate cancer cells. This targeted approach effectively combats the cancer while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. In addition to clinical trials testing the effects of Lu-177, there is already a Lu-177 medication on the market. NRG PALLAS provides the basis for this product.

The Netherlands as a Leader in Nuclear Medicine

The Netherlands is one of the leading countries in the production of medical isotopes such as Lu-177, with NRG PALLAS being one of the largest suppliers of Lu-177. NRG PALLAS has been producing medical isotopes for years, and with the new PALLAS reactor in Petten, production capacity will be further expanded to ensure global supply. This means that the Netherlands not only helps patients domestically but also plays a crucial role in the worldwide supply of these life-saving substances.

The Future of Lu-177

The future of Lu-177 looks promising. More and more studies show how effective this medical isotope is in treating various forms of cancer. Scientists are also working on combination therapies, where Lu-177 is used alongside other treatments to achieve even better results.

Thanks to NRG PALLAS, the FIELD-LAB of NRG PALLAS, and the development of the new PALLAS reactor, the Netherlands is a pioneer in nuclear medicine. This means that more and more patients worldwide can benefit from these advanced treatments.

Want to Know More?

Would you like to know more about prostate cancer and Lu-177-PSMA treatment? Visit the Dutch website of the Prostate Cancer Foundation (prostaatkankerstichting.nl) or the PSMA Forum Netherlands (psmaforum.nl) and get informed by these organizations for men with prostate cancer and their loved ones. Are you dealing with a neuroendocrine tumor and want to know more about treatment options? Visit the website of the NETNEC Cancer Foundation (www.netneckanker.nl).

A Look at the Rising Trend in Prostate Cancer Diagnoses in the Netherlands (Source: NKR)