Methods for detecting pathological sites

Abstract

The present invention relates to the field of site directed therapy. More specifically the invention relates to site directed radio therapy, and provides a method for production of radioconjugates and an apparatus for radioimmunotherapy. The method, conjugates and apparatus can be practicalized without the need for radioactive shielding and/or airtight facilities. Without these restrictions the invention provides a simple and efficient means of therapy at the bed-side of the patient.

1 - 29 . (canceled) 
     
     
         30 . A method for detecting a pathological site in a mammal, said pathological site comprising a target moiety, said method comprising providing a radioconjugate of a targeting moiety bound, directly or indirectly, to an alpha-particle emitting radioisotope, said target moiety and said targeting moiety constituting a specific binding pair, administering said conjugate to said mammal to effectuate specific binding of said conjugate to said target moiety and detecting alpha-particles emitted by said bound conjugate. 
     
     
         31 . A method as claimed in  claim 30 , wherein said pathological site comprises diseased cells. 
     
     
         32 . A method as claimed in  claim 31 , wherein said alpha-particle emitting radioisotope is  213 Bi. 
     
     
         33 . A method as claimed in  claim 32 , wherein said targeting moiety is a ligand having binding specificity for a cell surface receptor present on said diseased cells. 
     
     
         34 . A method as claimed in  claim 33 , wherein said ligand is a peptide. 
     
     
         35 . A method as claimed in  claim 30 , wherein said pathological site is an extracellular structure. 
     
     
         36 . A method as claimed in  claim 35 , wherein said alpha-particle emitting radioisotope is  213 Bi. 
     
     
         37 . A method as claimed in  claim 36 , wherein said targeting moiety is a ligand having binding specificity for a receptor present on said extracellular structure. 
     
     
         38 . A method as claimed in  claim 37 , wherein said ligand is a peptide. 
     
     
         39 - 43 . (canceled)