Targeted Radionuclide Therapy, TRT, is a promising and rapidly growing therapeutic class in which radioactive substances are used to selectively target and treat numerous malignancies. The theranostic concept, where the same molecule can be used for both diagnosis and therapy, enables unique possibilities for personalised treatment, patient selection and limited toxicity.
The Netherlands has a strong position in this field. The HFR reactor in Petten has supplied a large share of the medical isotopes used in European hospitals for decades. With the construction of the new PALLAS reactor, the Dutch government is investing in maintaining and strengthening that production capacity for decades to come. Dutch academic centres have also made a direct contribution to the clinical evidence base for the first globally approved nuclear therapies. Furthermore, the field is home to leading researchers, specialised companies and unique facilities.
At the same time, research shows that knowledge and skills are fragmented. Initiatives run in parallel, collaboration is often project-based and promising innovations reach patients later than they could. Other countries are investing purposefully in national networks and coordinated infrastructure. The Netherlands has the foundation to lead, but that requires collective action.
NUCMED-NL was established to make that collective action possible. As a national platform, NUCMED-NL connects parties across the full TRT chain, from fundamental research and radionuclide production to clinical application and patient care. We map initiatives, connect parties and help mobilise funding, such that barriers in the ecosystem can be addressed.
