Targeted radiotherapy is a form of cancer treatment in which radioactive substances are delivered specifically to tumor cells or tumor-associated structures, minimizing exposure to healthy tissues.
Key aspects include:
Specific Targeting: Radioactive molecules are attached to ligands (such as antibodies, peptides, or small molecules) that recognize and bind to tumor-specific markers (e.g., PSMA in prostate cancer or glioblastoma neovasculature).
Localized Radiation: After binding to the target, the radioactive component emits radiation (commonly beta or alpha particles) that destroys cancer cells in the immediate vicinity.
Reduced Side Effects: Compared to conventional external beam radiotherapy, targeted radiotherapy offers greater precision and reduces collateral damage to normal tissues.
Examples: