ASP Isotopes and Isotopia Agree to Supply Gadolinium-160 for Terbium-161 in Cancer Treatment

ASP Isotopes Inc. and Isotopia Molecular Imaging Ltd. have joined forces in a strategic alliance to ensure the supply of Gadolinium-160 (Gd-160), a critical isotope needed for the production of Terbium-161 (Tb-161). Tb-161 is gaining recognition for its potential in targeted radiotherapeutics, offering promising treatments for prostate cancer, neuroendocrine tumors, and various other malignancies. This collaboration aims to resolve ongoing supply issues associated with Gd-160 and supports the advancement of medical isotope therapies.

ASP Isotopes will employ its exclusive Quantum Enrichment technology to supply Isotopia with enriched Gd-160. This stable isotope is fundamental to the manufacture of Tb-161. ASP Isotopes is renowned for its large-scale isotope enrichment capabilities, previously showcased in its successful production of Ytterbium-176 (Yb-176). Together, ASP Isotopes' expertise in isotope enrichment and Isotopia's proficiency in commercial-scale medical isotope production create a robust partnership. Isotopia has a track record of producing Lutetium-177 (Lu-177) and has maintained consistent Tb-161 production for clinical trials over the past two years.

Paul Mann, CEO of ASP Isotopes, highlighted the importance of the agreement, stating that the supply of Gd-160 removes a significant barrier in the development of Tb-161 therapies. His company’s investment in enrichment technology is strategically positioned to cater to the growing demands of the radiopharmaceutical sector for stable isotopes. This partnership is anticipated to accelerate the clinical adoption of Tb-161, which holds the potential to transform cancer treatment paradigms.

Dr. Eli Shalom, CEO of Isotopia, elaborated on the therapeutic benefits of Tb-161, emphasizing its dual mechanism of action. The isotope's Auger electron emissions facilitate precise targeting of micro-metastases while minimizing collateral damage to healthy tissues. This collaboration guarantees a dependable supply chain for Gd-160, enabling Isotopia to scale up production and move its Tb-161-labeled drug candidates towards commercialization. Production occurs at their facility in Israel, and operations are set to commence soon at a second site in Indianapolis, USA.

The precision of Tb-161's Auger electrons in inducing double-strand DNA breaks in cancer cells presents potential advantages over other isotopes like Lu-177 and alpha-emitting isotopes, aligning with the oncology sector's shift towards targeted radiotherapeutics. These therapies enhance efficacy while minimizing side effects. The agreement between ASP Isotopes and Isotopia coincides with rising global interest in radiopharmaceuticals, attributed to their capability to deliver localized radiation therapy through tumor-seeking molecules.

ASP Isotopes Inc. specializes in advanced isotope separation technologies, including their proprietary Aerodynamic Separation Process and Quantum Enrichment. These techniques yield stable isotopes without generating radioactive waste. Their initial focus is on the production and commercialization of highly enriched isotopes for healthcare and technology sectors. ASP Isotopes operates isotope enrichment facilities in Pretoria, South Africa.

Isotopia Molecular Imaging Ltd. is recognized globally as a leader in medical isotope production, boasting facilities across Israel, Europe, and the U.S. Their integrated platform encompasses cyclotrons, Lu-177 and Tb-161 production sites, and sterile manufacturing capabilities. Isotopia collaborates with researchers and clinicians to innovate radiopharmaceuticals for diagnostics and targeted therapy.

This partnership positions both ASP Isotopes and Isotopia at the forefront of the radiopharmaceutical revolution, with the potential to broaden treatment options for cancer patients globally.