1.Radioisotope production and radiopharmacy
One of the first stages in the use of radiation in medicine is the production of radioisotopes, essential for the development of radiopharmaceuticals used in diagnosis and treatment. These radiopharmaceuticals consist of specific molecules labelled with radionuclides that accumulate in specific tissues, such as tumours. The Unit has developed a 68Ge/68Ga generator and is currently developing a generator based on the 44Ti/44Sc pair, as well as synthesising different radiopharmaceuticals (small molecules, peptides, proteins, antibodies and fragments thereof).
2.Molecular imaging by PET/CT
PET/CT technology combines two imaging methods: positron emission tomography (PET), which shows metabolic and functional processes, and computed tomography (CT), which provides detailed anatomical images. This technique makes it possible to pinpoint diseases such as cancer with great precision. The unit conducts preclinical studies in animal models to evaluate new radiopharmaceuticals before their application in humans. In addition, it works with techniques such as ImmunoPET, which combines specific antibodies with emitting isotopes, and with theranostic approaches, which integrate diagnosis and treatment in a single tool.
The Unit also collaborates with institutions such as the UNED in neuroimaging studies to observe the effects of substances such as cannabis or cocaine on the brain, and with the Complutense University of Madrid in the development of advanced PET technologies that allow simultaneous imaging of several radiotracers.
3.Instrumentation and simulation in nuclear medicine and radiotherapy
Computational simulation is essential for planning personalised radiotherapy treatments. The Unit develops tools based on Monte Carlo codes (GAMOS/Geant4) that accurately simulate how radiation interacts with the body. This makes it possible to accurately calculate the dose that the tumour and nearby tissues will receive, improving the efficacy and safety of the treatment.
In collaboration with the Clínica Universidad de Navarra, they are also working on the design of platforms to plan treatments with proton therapy, an advanced technique that allows radiation to be directed with great precision and reduces side effects. Unlike traditional photons, protons deposit their energy in a localised manner, which makes it possible to treat the tumour more effectively and with less damage to healthy tissue.
4.Radiobiology
Radiobiology studies how radiation affects cells and tissues. This line of research helps to understand the mechanisms of cell damage and to develop safer treatments. The unit investigates the effect of proton therapy and the combination of radiotherapy and immunotherapy, which can boost the immune system’s response against cancer. Preclinical trials, dosimetry techniques and immunological analyses are used to assess therapeutic efficacy and toxicity.
In addition, an emerging technique called FLASH radiotherapy is being studied, which consists of administering high doses of radiation in very short times, which could reduce side effects without losing anti-tumour efficacy.
Radioactivity, a natural phenomenon that affects DNA, is harnessed in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer. The CIEMAT Unit develops radioisotopes, PET/CT, simulation and radiobiology, which improves precision and therapeutic efficacy, and reduces side effects.
