Framatome and KHNP Partner to Produce Lutetium-177 Medical Isotope at Wolsong Nuclear Power Plant
Framatome and Korea Hydro & Nuclear Power (KHNP) Partner to Produce Life-Saving Cancer Treatment Isotope at Wolsong Nuclear Plant
Framatome and KHNP have joined forces to explore the possibility of producing lutetium-177, a crucial medical isotope used in cancer treatments, at the Wolsong nuclear power plant in South Korea. The two companies have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to conduct a technical assessment using Framatome’s successful isotope production technology, which has already been implemented at the Bruce Power nuclear plant in Canada.
François Gauché, head of Framatome Healthcare, highlighted the potential impact of this collaboration on the availability of lutetium-177 for cancer patients worldwide. By leveraging commercial nuclear reactors for isotope production, the initiative aims to enhance the supply chain and make cancer treatments more accessible on a global scale.
This partnership echoes similar agreements recently made by Framatome with other nuclear power operators, such as Nuclearelectrica in Romania. The focus is on utilizing the CANDU reactor at Wolsong to support the local production of life-saving radioisotopes in the future.
Chang Hee-Seung, executive vice president of KHNP’s Quality and Technology division, emphasized the company’s commitment to advancing nuclear medicine in South Korea while ensuring stable energy supply and promoting carbon neutrality. The collaboration with Framatome aligns with KHNP’s dedication to social responsibility and technological innovation.
Catherine Cornand, senior executive vice president of Framatome’s Installed Base business unit, praised the long-standing partnership between Framatome and KHNP in supporting the safe and sustainable operation of nuclear facilities. She expressed her enthusiasm for extending this cooperation to the Wolsong nuclear plant through the production of lutetium-177.
Lutetium-177 plays a crucial role in targeted radionuclide therapy for prostate cancer and other cancer treatments. Framatome’s expertise in isotope production has already enabled large-scale commercial production of lutetium-177 in a power reactor, marking a significant milestone in cancer treatment technology.
Framatome Healthcare is dedicated to developing innovative solutions for the healthcare industry, including radioisotopes for diagnostic imaging and therapeutic purposes. The collaboration between Framatome and KHNP signifies a significant step forward in advancing cancer treatment through the use of nuclear technology.
POWER magazine has edited this content, provided by Framatome’s media relations department, to highlight the groundbreaking collaboration between Framatome and KHNP in producing lutetium-177 for cancer treatments.