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Chinese Scientists Extract Cancer-Fighting Nuclides from Rare Earth Minerals

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Researchers at the University of South China have achieved a breakthrough in cancer treatment by successfully extracting high-purity lead-212 and bismuth-212 nuclides from rare earth minerals, the university’s press center announced on Wednesday.

These nuclides play a critical role in targeted alpha-nuclide therapy (TAT), an advanced cancer treatment method effective against breast, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. The innovation is expected to enhance China’s self-sufficiency in producing vital medical nuclides, addressing long-standing supply limitations.

The research team developed a novel and cost-effective method for isolating lead-212 and bismuth-212 from natural thorium-232 decay chains using a silica-supported anion exchange resin (SiPyR-N4). This method, operating in a halide medium, is over six times faster than traditional resins, enabling efficient separation of short-lived nuclides.

“This development not only resolves the scarcity of these nuclides but also provides a foundation for future advancements,” said Wei Yuezhou, the lead researcher. The team is also working on extracting other medical nuclides, including radium-228, thorium-228, and radium-224.

The findings have been published in major international journals, and the researchers have applied for a national invention patent. This breakthrough marks a significant step in advancing cancer therapies and reducing reliance on imported medical isotopes.

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