This promising therapeutic application is currently being investigated in clinical trials for treating cancers such as ovarian, lung, breast, colon, prostate, brain, and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. For those applications which involve combining a monoclonal antibody with the Yttrium 90 in a radiopharmacy, NEN is submitting a New Drug Application for FDA approval. To be used as a component of a human drug, the Yttrium 90 must be consistently very pure. NEN began producing and distributing ultra-pure Yttrium 90 in May 1999. The ultra-pure Yttrium is extracted from Strontium 90 using a patented process for which NEN holds an exclusive license.
Every lot is quality controlled to ensure consistency.
The test results, such as the ICP analysis for metals contamination, are provided with the release documentation sent with each shipment. The Yttrium 90 is attached to the antibody or peptide which targets the tumor cells. Because the Yttrium is a high energy, pure beta emitter, it kills the tumor cells while leaving healthy surrounding tissue intact. Also, with a short half-life of only 64 hours, the treatment may be performed on an outpatient basis. Of importance is the fact that NEN's worldwide distribution capabilities allow this short-lived isotope to be delivered soon after production to the many areas of the world where it will be used.