155Tb [t1/2 = 5.32 d, Eγ = 87 keV (32%); 105 keV (25%) (IAEA, 2021)] is a novel promising radionuclide for theranostic applications in nuclear medicine. Its physical properties make it suitable for single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging, while its chemistry allows it to be used as a diagnostic partner for therapeutic radiolanthanides or pseudo-radiolanthanides, such as 177Lu and 90Y. Moreover, 155Tb could be used as a precise diagnostic match for the β--emitter 161Tb, opening doors for the true theranostics concept. The availability of 155Tb in quantity and quality suitable for medical applications is an open issue and its production with medical cyclotrons via the 155Gd(p,n)155Tb and 156Gd(p,2n)155Tb nuclear reactions represents a possible but challenging solution. For this purpose, an accurate knowledge of the production cross sections is mandatory. In this paper, we report on the measurement of the production cross sections of 155Tb and other terbium radionuclides formed by proton irradiation of natGd2O3, 155Gd2O3 and 156Gd2O3 enriched targets, performed at the Bern University Hospital cyclotron laboratory. On the basis of the obtained results, the production yield and purity were calculated to assess the optimal irradiation conditions. The results of several production tests are also presented.
Keywords: Cross sections; Medical cyclotron; Proton irradiation; Radionuclide production; SPECT/CT imaging; Solid target; Terbium-155; Theranostics.
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