rhenium-186

Rhenium-186 is a beta-emitting radioisotope with a half-life of approximately 89.2 hours (3.7 days). It is produced in nuclear reactors by direct neutron activation of metallic rhenium enriched with 185Re. The therapeutic effect of rhenium-186 is primarily mediated by the localized delivery of ionizing beta radiation, which induces single-strand DNA breaks, leading to cellular damage and death. It has a limited tissue penetration depth, making it suitable for targeted therapies to minimize damage to surrounding healthy tissues. Additionally, it emits a gamma photon, which allows for real-time imaging of its in vivo distribution. Rhenium-186 is utilized in radiopharmaceuticals for various medical applications, including radiation synovectomy for inflammatory joint diseases and targeted radionuclide therapy for certain cancers.

Other names

186Re