FT: The hunt for a rare nuclear isotope that could redefine cancer care

Extreme shortages of actinium-225, a key isotope for advanced cancer treatments, are stalling progress in the radiopharmaceutical field. This isotope's scarcity threatens the future of radioligands—microscopic drugs designed to deliver targeted radiation directly to cancer cells. Despite billions invested and promising developments, companies face significant supply chain challenges. The industry's ability to overcome these hurdles will determine whether radiopharmaceuticals can fulfil their potential in cancer therapy.

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By Oliver Barnes in New York and Ian Johnston in London

Extreme shortages of actinium are holding up the promising field of radiopharmaceuticals

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