A new study published in the prestigious Physics in Medicine and Biology journal uses sophisticated calculations and modeling to suggest that conventional cyclotron technology could be the answer to recent shortages of the high-demand medical isotope technetium-99m (Tc-99m), which is used for medical imaging. TRIUMF is a leader in the development of cyclotron technology, and is a research centre for medical isotopes. Currently, the production of Tc-99m depends on just five nuclear reactors worldwide. The fragility and sensitivity of the existing system was clear after an unexpected shut-down of one and then two reactors led to a global supply crisis. With the information from this new study, it may become possible to produce the isotope locallywithin the hospitals themselves.
The study, conducted by Anna Celler of UBC with TRIUMF’s Tom Ruth as a co-author, essentially applies a theoretical model to determine the most viable, efficient approach for cyclotron-based production of Tc-99m. Celler and colleagues predicted the peak production rates and the optimal reaction conditions, all in advance of conducting larger-scale tests. The idea of using cyclotron technology to produce Tc-99m has been present since the 1970s, but large-scale experimentation and implementation had previously been too expensive and less in-demand. This study is important as it allows researchers to by-pass the expensive experimentation that has restricted research and focus only on producing isotopes in optimal conditions. The paper will provide critical guidance for the two teams presently proving out the commcercial feasibility of cyclotron production of Tc-99m with support from NRCan’s NISP program.
Reflecting on the impact of the study, Celler explained that, “Not only are our theoretical calculations in agreement with the existing experimental data, but also they provide us with guidance for future experiments and suggest what could be the optimal conditions for technetium production.”
TRIUMF is at the leading edge of cyclotron-based production of Tc-99m. Current research focuses on creating the most effective design for the molybdenum-100 targets used in the cyclotron. The ideal target uses the least molybdenum while still maintaining the optimum conditions required for efficient Tc-99m production. The targets have been designed and manufactured, and are currently being sent to TRIUMF’s research partners for testing. The photograph to the right shows the production process involved in creating the molybdenum-100 targets.
Celler and Ruth’s study presents exciting possibilities for nuclear medicine. TRIUMF has long been investigating reliable methods of isotope production, especially as a world leader in cyclotron technology. With the stage set for a breakthrough in medical isotope production, a reliable supply of cyclotron-produced Tc-99m may be in the near future.
For more information on this story, please visit:
http://physicsworld.com/cws/article/news/47266
http://medicalphysicsweb.org/cws/article/research/47248
--by Aaron Lao, Communications Assistant