Manufacturers partner to develop radioisotopes used in cancer drugs, clinical trials
Radioisotope manufacturers Eckert & Ziegler and Nucleus RadioPharma have signed a supply agreement to address the increasing demand for Lu-177 and Ac-225. Eckert & Ziegler will serve as the key supplier for both, with Nucleus developing radioisotopes to complement manufacturing needs.
The increase in demand is attributed to advancements in precision medicine and the development of new pharmaceuticals, as both substances are used in cancer treatments and ongoing clinical trials. Demand for Lu-177 and Ac-225 is expected to only increase over the next decade, according to a statement from Nucleus and Eckert & Ziegler sent to Health Imaging.
"The reliable supply with Ac-225 and Lu-177 is a major prerequisite to address the increasing need for radiopharmaceutical development and manufacturing,” Charles S. Conroy, CEO of Nucleus said in the statement. “Our agreement with Eckert & Ziegler will enable us to advance our programs most efficiently and to secure patient access to innovative radiotherapies.”
Eckert & Ziegler achieved GMP-compliant production for Lu-177 in 2023 and is expanding capacities. The company said it plans to start manufacturing larger quantities of GMP-grade Ac-225 in 2024.
Several medical isotopes remain in tight supply, with multiple companies opening new manufacturing sites to ease constraints.
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