The Japan Atomic Energy Agency (JAEA) has expressed interest in expanding the functionalities of the Joyo experimental fast reactor located in Oarai, Ibaraki Prefecture, by including medical radioisotope production as part of its objectives. Specifically, the JAEA is focusing on utilizing actinium-225, a radioactive substance, as a potential cancer treatment drug. By injecting a drug containing actinium-225 into a patient's body, the aim is to target cancer cells, offering a new therapeutic approach in cancer treatment.
JAEA officials are optimistic about the prospects of producing actinium-225 through the use of a fast reactor, something that is not widely practiced globally. The agency is targeting to commence the manufacturing of the radioisotope by the conclusion of fiscal 2026. To advance their research and development efforts in cancer therapy using actinium-225, the JAEA recently entered into a collaboration agreement with the National Cancer Center Japan in February. This collaboration signifies a significant step forward in contributing to the advancement of cancer treatment methodologies.
Although therapeutic trials of radiation therapy using actinium-225 are ongoing in various countries, the limited global supply of this radioisotope restricts the number of patients who can benefit from this treatment annually to approximately 3,000. The plans to reactivate the Joyo reactor around the middle of fiscal 2026 demonstrate the JAEA’s commitment to advancing cancer treatment technologies. As part of this process, the agency is engaged in formalities to secure prior agreement from authorities in Ibaraki Prefecture and the town of Oarai, where the reactor is situated.