Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with radiolabelled somatostatin analogues

This thesis focuses on peptide receptor-targeted therapies, with particular reference to the somatostatin ligand-receptor system and to radiolabelled somatostatin analogues in neuroendocrine tumours. Neuroendocrine cells are typically regulated by numerous hormones, acting via specific receptors on the membrane surface. The presence of a suitable density of internalising receptors on the cell surface of tumours poses the basis for a peptide receptor-guided therapy, and in this sense, neuroendocrine tumours represent an excellent model. In chapter 1, an overview on neuroendocrine tumours, their epidemiology, histopathology, clinical and biochemical presentation, is presented. In chapter 2, the diagnostic techniques and main therapeutic tools of neuroendocrine tumours is discussed. Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy with radiolabelled somatostatin analogues 90Y-DOTATOC and 177Lu-DOTATATE is specifically explained and discussed with particular reference to efficacy, safety, and clinical results.