CHANDIGARH-30-03-2024-PGI Chandigarh, recognized as a leading medical institution in India, has played a pivotal role in advancing the development and application of radiopharmaceuticals for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. PGIMER Chandigarh is one of the early adopters of nuclear medicine techniques in India. The department of nuclear medicine was established with the vision of providing state-of-the-art diagnostic and therapeutic services using radiopharmaceuticals

A CME on “Radiopharmaceuticals: Chemistry to Precision Medicine”, was organized by Dept. of Nuclear Medicine PGIMER, Chandigarh, on 30th March 2024, under the aegis of Indian College of Nuclear Medicine. Prof. and Head Dr. Bhagwant Rai Mittal, along with Prof. Jaya Shukla served as the organizing chairperson and secretary, respectively, for this event. This CME served as a nexus for experts and professionals in the field of Nuclear Medicine facilitating exploration and discussion of the latest advances, trends, and challenges in radiopharmacy.

Accompanied by the Dean of ICNM, Professor BR Mittal, and other dignitaries including Dr. Kanhaiyalal Agrawal, Secretary of ICNM, Professor Anish Bhattacharya, Professor Baljinder Singh, and Professor Jaya Shukla, the chief guest inaugurated the event by lighting the ceremonial lamp.

The inaugural session was chaired by Prof. G.P. Bandopadhyaya, Former SNMI President from AIIMS, New Delhi and Prof. D.K. Dhawan, Panjab University. The inaugural talk on Journey of Radiopharmaceuticals was delivered by Dr. MRA Pillai, Group Director at Molecular Group of Companies.The CME comprised seven sessions overseen by a panel of 15 Chairpersons, featuring a total of 20 presentations by expert speakers from esteemed organizations. Furthermore, a dedicated Question/Answer session provided a forum for delegates to engage with the experts, discussing and addressing their inquiries.

The CME provided a comprehensive overview of the evolution of radiopharmaceuticals, covering various production methods such as reactors, generators, and cyclotrons. It delved into advancements in radiochemistry and discussed future prospects, while also addressing ethical and intellectual property considerations. Furthermore, the experts discussed the diagnostic and therapeutic applications of radiopharmaceuticals in disease management. Concluding on an optimistic note, the CME emphasized the promising future of radiopharmaceuticals, highlighting the significant role that young Indian talent plays in driving innovation and evolution within the field. Around 150 delegates from across the country enthusiastically participated in the event, demonstrating great enthusiasm and joy. The CME was broadcasted live on YouTube, enabling international delegates as well as Indian participants unable to attend in person to engage with the proceedings.

Over the years, PGI Chandigarh has been actively involved in research and development in the field of radiopharmaceuticals. This has led to the development of new radiotracers for the treatment of liver cancer, skin cancer and keloid, synovitis etc. Several diagnostic radiotracers have also been developed at PGIMER Chandigarh. Most recently we have developed two tracers for identifying a tiny tumor with in the pituitiary gland that have significantly contributing in patient care. Overall, radiopharmaceuticals at PGI Chandigarh reflects a commitment to excellence in patient care, research, and education. The institute continues to be at the forefront of nuclear medicine in India, contributing to the advancement of this vital field.