Abstract:
177Lu is recognized as one of the most promising therapeutic radionuclides for targeted radiotherapy due to its relatively long half-life, ease of labeling antibodies and peptide drug molecules, and the low energy and short range of its β-ray emissions. Currently, the indirect method of reactor production of
177Lu is preferred because it yields a product with high specific activity and no long-lived
177mLu impurities. The production of no-carrier
177Lu relies on high-abundance
176Yb isotopic precursors. This paper reviews several
176Yb isotope separation techniques, including electromagnetic separation, laser methods, and chemical methods, focusing on their preparation principles, current research status, future market demands, and application prospects. China has made certain progress in electromagnetic and laser separation methods. However, to achieve a stable supply of high-abundance
176Yb, further research and technological innovation are still needed to build an independent and controllable supply system for medical isotopes and ensure the healthy development of the nuclear medicine industry.