Dutch radionuclide producer TerThera bv ensures reliable supply of Terbium-161 chloride to SCK CEN
The Dutch company TerThera bv is the world's largest producer of Terbium-161 and is pleased to be given the opportunity to deliver Terbium-161 to SCK CEN
This supply fits within the ongoing collaboration between SCK CEN and TerThera bv, initiated in 2023 to ensure a stable supply of Terbium-161. This partnership has been instrumental in advancing their shared goals and also enabling SCK CEN to source Terbium-161 chloride from TerThera bv.
Terbium-161 is an extremely promising isotope for targeted cancer therapy because of its distinctive radiation properties, which include the release of both Auger electrons and short-range beta particles. The beta particles travel just a few millimeters, while the Auger electrons deliver high-energy radiation over distances shorter than the width of a single cell. Tb-161 has demonstrated strong bioequivalence, showing a biodistribution similar to that of radiolanthanides currently in use. It also has the potential to outperform Lutetium-177 (Lu-177), thanks to the additional Auger electron emissions, which enhance its ability to effectively destroy tumor cells with minimal damage to nearby healthy tissue.
“TerThera is strategically positioned to address the increasing global demand for radioisotopes in oncology by ensuring a highly sustainable and uninterrupted supply of Terbium-161,” stated Philippe van Overeem, CEO of TerThera. “We are pleased to collaborate with SCK CEN in supporting their innovative radioligand development pipeline and contributing to the advancement of a new generation of therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals. As we complete the final preparations for the supply of our Terbium-161 as a GMP-compliant product, it is anticipated that our current bi-weekly production schedule will transition to a weekly production cycle.”
“This novel therapeutic isotope holds the potential to become a first-in-class radioligand therapy, offering expanded treatment options for patients living with cancer. Therefore, we are proud of our collaboration with TerThera. Over the past two years, this partnership has not only allowed us to work alongside them but also to source Terbium-161 from them. This enables us to make significant contributions to both production and pioneering preclinical research at our site, driving forward clinical studies and the future of cancer treatment”, said Koen Hasaers, Director Nuclear Medical Applications – SCK CEN.
About TerThera
TerThera is a radionuclide production company headquartered in the Netherlands, dedicated to advancing the field of nuclear medicine. The founders and team members of TerThera bring decades of experience within the nuclear medicine industry and are fully committed to the production of the innovative radionuclide Terbium-161 (Tb-161). The company is actively establishing a global platform to address the increasing demand for radionuclides in oncology and nuclear medicine.
