Lapi Research Group

Advancing Molecular Imaging Through Radiochemistry

Developing novel radioisotopes and radiopharmaceuticals - from cyclotron production to clinical translation at the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Explore Our Research

Our Background

The Lapi Research Group has a rich history rooted in advancing radioisotope development and scientific inquiry. Our mission is to innovate and lead in research that enhances healthcare and industry applications. We focus on collaboration and education to share our findings and contribute to the broader scientific community.

Our Mission Statement

We strive to foster a collaborative research environment that drives scientific breakthroughs and educational outreach.

Historical Overview

Over the years, our group has achieved numerous milestones in research publication and project collaboration, building a strong reputation in our field.

WHAT WE DO

Research Focus Area

Radioisotope Development

We specialize in the development of advanced radioisotopes for various applications, ensuring high-quality and reliable products for research and medical use.

Radioisotope Development

UAB's TR24 cyclotron facility is a global pioneer in radioisotope production, supporting clinical trials and FDA-approved diagnostics with ¹⁸F, ¹¹C, and ⁶⁸Ga, while routinely supplying ⁸⁹Zr, ⁶⁴Cu, and ²⁰³Pb worldwide. Through the DOE's University Isotope Network, we offer ⁵⁵Co, ⁵²Mn, ²⁰³Pb, and ⁴⁸V on demand, and continue advancing nuclear medicine with emerging radiometals ⁴⁵Ti, ⁴³/⁴⁴Sc, ⁴⁷Sc, ¹⁵⁵Tb, and ¹⁴⁰Nd.
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Radiopharmaceutical Synthesis

Designing novel PET imaging agents targeting cancer biomarkers.

Radiopharmaceutical Synthesis

At the UAB Cyclotron Facility we have experience radiolabeling a large variety of isotopes and targeting moieties. 
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Clinical Translation

Translating imaging agents from preclinical models into clinical trials with an active isotope supply program.

Clinical Translation

At the UAB Cyclotron Facility we support clinical trials with over 10 active human use radiotracers. In addition to bringing up established radiopharmaceuticals we can assist in first in human trials. Our nuclear pharmacy is USP 797, 823, and 800 compliant. We are directly adjacent to UAB's renovated Advanced Imaging Facility featuring a PET/MRI and 2 PET/CT machines.
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Theranostics

Matched pairs enabling simultaneous PET imaging and targeted radiotherapy.

Theranostics

The UAB Cyclotron Facility develops "matched" theranostic pairs - imaging and therapeutic isotopes of the same element. Our ⁴³/⁴⁷Sc pair enables PET imaging and beta therapy, while ¹⁵⁵Tb provides SPECT imaging paired with therapeutic ¹⁶¹Tb. ¹⁴⁰Nd serves as an in vivo PET generator for F-block therapeutics lacking PET isotopes, and ²⁰³Pb is supplied through the DOE UIN as the SPECT complement to alpha emitter ²¹²Pb.
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Innovative Solutions

Our research initiatives focus on innovative solutions that address current challenges in scientific and medical fields through applied science.

Innovative Solutions

In addition to the development of radiopharmaceuticals, we can use our TR24 cyclotron to answer questions relating to nuclear physics. Capable of accelerating protons to 24 MeV, we are able to investigate nuclear reactions.
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Isotope Supply Program

At the UAB Cyclotron Facility we can ship radioisotopes all over the world. We provide domestic overnight shipments in DOT certified containers, or will work with provided DOT approved couriers. There is no need to ship back the pigs! International shipping times vary by country. For inquiries please contact cyclotron@uabmc.edu.

Isotope Supply Program

In addition to the development of radiopharmaceuticals, we can use our TR24 cyclotron to answer questions relating to nuclear physics. Capable of accelerating protons to 24 MeV, we are able to investigate nuclear reactions.
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