ABSTRACT
Having a short range and high linear energy transfer, alpha (α)-particle-releasing radionuclides show high cell lethality. Despite the existence of a large number of radionuclides that decay by α-particle release, only a few of them can be used for therapeutic purposes. Factors related to physical properties such as radionuclide availability and half-life may or may not limit their widespread use. This article will focus on the diversity of α-emitters, their basic radiochemistry, limiting factors and difficulties in their use.
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