Idaho Falls-based International Isotopes Inc., a manufacturer of nuclear medicine products, and Idaho State University began a joint partnership this month to produce Copper-67.
Copper-67 shows great potential in treating non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma as well as bladder, colorectal and ovarian cancers, the company said. However, it is a difficult isotope to produce and has not been consistently available in the United States. That has restricted its evaluation in cancer research and clinical trials.
Idaho State University developed an advanced method for producing the isotope using technologies at its Idaho Accelerator Center in Pocatello. Under an agreement, Idaho State will produce the raw isotope and International Isotopes will transfer the material to its Idaho Falls headquarters, where it will be processed and packaged in its final form.
"To be able to play a role in treating these diseases is exciting and speaks to the university's role as a distinguished research university leading in opportunity and innovation through research, education and service,? said Idaho State President Arthur Vailas.
Idaho State also is providing the expertise for chemical processing. International Isotopes will make an in-kind contribution of equipment for the isotope processing, technical support for packaging and shipping, and supporting safety staff. International Isotopes said it is licensed by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for this type of activity. Its plant is registered with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a manufacturer of drug products, which will help facilitate the commercial development of Copper-67, the company said.
?It is especially noteworthy that we have been able to join the resources of an Idaho business and an Idaho university to proactively collaborate on the production of this potentially important medical isotope,? said Steve T. Laflin, president and CEO of International Isotopes.
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