Radiotheranostics in Nuclear Medicine

Module 1: Radiotheranostics Overview (Erwin Woff) · Introduction to Radiotheranostics - Lecture 1: Overview of Radiotheranostics - Definition and scope - Historical development - Future prospects - Lecture 2: Key Concepts and Applications - Basic principles - Clinical applications in nuclear medicine Module 2: Radiochemistry and Radiopharmacy (Zéna Wimana) · Basics of Radiochemistry - Lecture 1: Radioisotopes and their Properties - Types of radioisotopes used in medicine - Physical and chemical properties - Lecture 2: Synthesis of Radiopharmaceuticals - Methods of radiolabeling - Quality control measures · Radiopharmacy Practices - Lecture 1: Regulatory Aspects - Guidelines and regulations - Good manufacturing practices (GMP) o Lecture 2: Preparation and Handling - Safety protocols - Storage and transportation of radiopharmaceuticals Module 3: Radiobiology (Wendy Delbart) · Fundamentals of Radiobiology o Lecture 1: Cellular and Molecular Effects of Radiation - Direct and indirect effects of radiation - Cellular targets of radiation - Lecture 2: New paradigms in radiobiology - Radiobiological models - Non-targeted effects of radiation · Radiobiological Principles in Therapy o Lecture 1: Radiobiological Basis of Radiotherapy - Radiobiology differences between radiotheranostics and radiotherapy o Lecture 2: Clinical Implications - Dose-response relationships - Radiobiological considerations in treatment combinations Module 4: Cancer Biology (Erwin Woff) · Introduction to Cancer Biology o Lecture 1: Cancer Cell Biology - Characteristics of cancer cells - Mechanisms of tumor growth and metastasis o Lecture 2: Molecular Pathways - Key signaling pathways in cancer - Genetic mutations and cancer - Targeted Therapies in Cancer o Lecture 1: Molecular Targets for Radiotheranostics - Identification of targets - Mechanisms of action o Lecture 2: Clinical Applications - Success stories and challenges Module 5: Nuclear Physics and Medical Physics (Clémentine Marin) · Basics of Nuclear Physics o Lecture 1: Atomic Structure and Radioactivity - Structure of the atom - Types of radioactive decay o Lecture 2: Radiation Interactions - Interaction of radiation with matter - Detection and measurement of radiation o Lecture 3: Production of Medical Radioisotopes - Nuclear Reactors and Cyclotrons · Principles of Medical Physics o Lecture 1: Imaging Techniques - SPECT and PET - Principles and applications · Dosimetry in Radiotheranostics o Lecture 1: Calculation of Radiation Dose - Dosimetric quantities and units - Methods of dose calculation o Lecture 2: Treatment Planning - Dosimetry in radionuclide therapy - Case studies and practical examples (PRRT/SIRT) Unlock the future of cancer treatment with radiotheranostics, combining diagnostic molecular imaging and targeted radionuclide therapy for unparalleled precision and personalized care.

Application Deadline

Virtual Part starting date 2025-01-19

Virtual Part closing date 2025-03-28

Total student workload 80

Specific field of studies No

Pre-requisite for selection CV Motivation Letter Level of English (According to CEFR) Research Project Outline

Academic pre-requisites for applicants Fundamental knowledge of chemistry, physics and biology is appreciated in order to gain a better understanding of the subject matter that will be covered in both online and face-to-face classes. Fluency in English is essential, as all course materials and instruction will be provided in English to ensure effective communication and comprehension.

Physical Part starting date 2025-06-30

Physical Part Description Building upon the foundational knowledge acquired through the online courses, the physical component of the program delves deeper into the biomedical scientific principles of these radiotheranostics and practical applications of radiotheranostics will be offered. Participants will engage in interactive sessions with the instructors/professors that reinforce their understanding and equip them with the skills to apply radiotheranostic techniques in real-world settings. A key highlight of the face-to-face program is the opportunity to witness the practical application of radiotheranostics firsthand. Participants will embark on a guided tour of the radiopharmacy laboratory, gaining insights into the intricate processes involved in radiopharmaceutical preparation. Additionally, they will observe the treatment of a patient using radiotheranostics, gaining firsthand exposure to the clinical implementation of this innovative therapy. Through this immersive and hands-on approach, participants will solidify their understanding of radiotheranostics and gain the confidence to apply their knowledge in their respective fields. To foster a deeper understanding and engagement with radiotheranostics, the program incorporates a range of innovative pedagogical approaches: • Problem-based learning: Participants will actively engage with clinical cases, analyzing and solving real-world problems encountered in radiotheranostic practice. This hands-on approach will cultivate critical thinking skills and enhance their ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations. • Visualization of complex clinical cases: Utilizing computer display consoles will provide students with a deeper understanding of the intricacies of radiotheranostic diagnosis and treatment. • Observing radionuclide treatment: Participants will have the unique opportunity to witness the administration of radionuclide therapy to a patient in the university hospital. This direct observation will provide a firsthand understanding of the clinical implementation of radiotheranostic techniques. • Radiopharmacy laboratory and preclinical research facilities visit: Embarking on a guided tour of the radiopharmacy laboratory, participants will gain in-depth knowledge of the processes involved in radiopharmaceutical preparation. This hands-on experience will enhance their understanding of the critical role of radiopharmacy in radiotheranostic practice. A visit to the preclinical research facilities will give students an insight into the whole area of preclinical radiotheranostics research on experimental small animals.

Physical Part closing date 2025-07-04

Language level required C1

Field of studies related to the course Medicine and Health

Course location Université Libre de Bruxelles. Brussels, Belgium

Course language English