China has achieved a milestone in nuclear technology by successfully producing Yttrium-90 (Y-90) radioisotopes using a commercial reactor, the China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) announced. The accomplishment at the Qinshan Nuclear Power Base in Zhejiang Province marks a leap forward in domestic medical innovation, with Y-90 glass microspheres passing critical quality tests.
Revolutionizing Liver Cancer Treatment
Y-90, a beta-emitting isotope, is vital for targeted radiation therapy against liver tumors. By delivering microspheres directly to tumors via vascular intervention, the technology minimizes damage to healthy tissue. This breakthrough could expand access to advanced cancer treatments across Asia and beyond.
Path to Mass Production
CNNC researchers are now analyzing the harvested Y-90 before clinical applications. The success demonstrates China's capacity to produce medical isotopes in existing commercial reactors, potentially reducing costs and increasing global supply. "This opens doors for scalable, precision medicine," said Dr. Li Wei, a nuclear researcher involved in the project.
