China produces Yttrium-90 in commercial nuclear reactor for cancer treatments

CNNC representatives stated that the breakthrough has now made large-scale production possible, paving the way for more significant progress in medical treatment and nuclear medicine.

This is reportedly the first time the Asian nation has achieved such production domestically at scale, showcasing its expanding capabilities in isotope manufacturing and making way for an advanced radiopharmaceutical development.

A breakthrough in isotope production

Known as a precision nuclear weapon in liver cancer treatment, yttrium-90 (Y-90) microspheres deliver targeted beta radiation to effectively destroy tumor cells and have become a key therapy worldwide for mid-to-late stage liver cancer.

However, according to CNNC, a state-owned enterprise and key player in national nuclear science and technology, all clinically used Y-90 glass microspheres in China were entirely imported, forcing countless patients to confront significant challenges.

Now, in a major announcement on June 14, the company said that the first batch of Y-90 microspheres met all quality standards, including specific activity and stability metrics, confirming the reactor’s ability to support continuous, large-scale production.

For the project, scientists at the Qinshan Nuclear Power Base teamed up with research groups from Shanghai Nuclear Engineering, CNNC North China, and China Nuclear Engineering Group, and took advantage of the heavy-water reactor’s high neutron flux and stable operation.

“To fully utilize Qinshan Nuclear Power resources, we must build a stable Yttrium-90 glass microsphere production capability, ensure domestic supply security, and benefit the public,” Li Shisheng, deputy chief engineer at the Qinshan Nuclear Power Base, said.

Revolutionizing cancer therapy

The scientists emphasized that the radioactive isotope plays a central role in transarterial radioembolization (TARE), a minimally invasive procedure that delivers microspheres, which are small spherical particles, loaded with Y-90 directly to liver tumors through the hepatic artery.

Once inside the tumor, the microspheres emit beta radiation that targets and destroys cancer cells with precision. Due to their size and short-range radiation, merely 2.5 millimeters of tissue penetration, the treatment minimizes damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Shisheng highlighted the reactor’s suitability for isotope production and emphasized its far-reaching impact on advancing cancer treatment. He stated that the precision targeting and high radiation doses achieved with microspheres offer new hope for extending patient survival and improving quality of life.

“After three years of intensive effort, Qinshan Nuclear Power has demonstrated its dedication to being a national pride – not only in the core reactor technology but also in its commitment to safeguarding every life,” CNNC said in a press release.

Before clinical use, the Y-90 samples will undergo further disassembly and detailed analysis to verify consistency, purity, and efficacy. CNNC has confirmed that all performance indicators meet design standards, laying a solid foundation for the next phase of research and potential application.