Eckert & Ziegler and UJF Open State-of-the-Art Actinium-225 Production Facility

June 19, 2024 - Berlin, Germany and Řež, Czech Republic – Eckert & Ziegler Radiopharma GmbH, in collaboration with the Nuclear Physics Institute of the Czech Academy of Sciences (UJF), has inaugurated a new Actinium-225 (Ac-225) production facility. The opening ceremony, attended by Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala, marks a major milestone achieved through their longstanding partnership. Commercial production is expected to begin in Q3/2024 after final testing.

Ac-225-based radiopharmaceuticals are currently under clinical investigation for treating several cancers, including prostate tumors, colorectal cancer, and leukemia. The demand for Ac-225 is forecast to rise due to its expanding clinical applications and positive trial outcomes. However, the supply of Ac-225 remains limited.

Dr. Lutz Helmke, Managing Director of Eckert & Ziegler Radiopharma GmbH, highlighted the significance of their cyclotron-based production pathway for Ac-225. This development aims to address the shortage of the isotope which holds potential in modern oncology.

The new facility employs advanced technologies and a custom production line by Isotope Technologies Dresden GmbH. Eckert & Ziegler will also supply the required Radium-226 for irradiation processes. Prof. Ondřej Lebeda of UJF praised the facility as a testament to their innovation and dedication to cancer therapy.

Actinium-225 shows promise in targeted therapy for small tumors and metastases. Its alpha particles can precisely target tumor cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.