copper-61

Copper-61 is a cyclotron-produced positron-emitting radioisotope with a half-life of approximately 3.33 hours, making it a versatile tool for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging. It is primarily developed as a high-resolution alternative to gallium-68, offering lower positron energy which results in superior spatial resolution. Copper-61 can be conjugated to various targeting vectors, such as DOTA-TATE for neuroendocrine tumors or PSMA ligands for prostate cancer. Its half-life allows for centralized production and distribution to distant clinical sites, as well as late-time imaging. Furthermore, it serves as a diagnostic partner to the therapeutic isotope copper-67, forming a theranostic pair.

Other names

copper Cu 61radioactive copper-61