SK Biopharmaceuticals has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS), a leading research institution specializing in radiological and medical advancements. Together, the two organizations aim to develop innovative radiopharmaceutical drug candidates using Actinium-225, a radioactive isotope known for its potential to selectively target and destroy cancer cells through the emission of alpha particles.
This partnership marks a significant milestone as it represents the first joint research agreement between the two entities. The collaboration will focus on preclinical drug discovery and the development of new cancer treatments, leveraging the unique properties of Actinium-225 to explore advanced nuclear medicine applications.
As part of its strategic roadmap to lead in radiopharmaceutical therapy (RPT) by 2027, SK Biopharmaceuticals has secured a supply of Actinium-225 from TerraPower Isotopes, a subsidiary of TerraPower, an innovation-driven nuclear company. Among TerraPower’s investors are SK Inc. (the parent company of SK Biopharmaceuticals) and Bill Gates.
The partnership with KIRAMS is expected to accelerate the submission of an Investigational New Drug (IND) application by 2027. By combining KIRAMS’ expertise, facilities, and cutting-edge equipment with SK Biopharmaceuticals’ research capabilities, the collaboration aims to streamline drug discovery, reduce development costs, and expand SK Biopharmaceuticals’ RPT pipeline.
This initiative is part of SK Biopharmaceuticals’ broader efforts to enhance its RPT business by discovering new pharmaceutical compounds, boosting production capacity, and advancing technologies through strategic partnerships. The company has also licensed SKL35501 (FL-091), a radiopharmaceutical targeting solid tumors associated with neurotensin receptor 1 (NTSR1).
Jinkyoung Lee, President of KIRAMS, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “This collaboration is in perfect harmony with our dedication to advancing radiopharmaceutical treatments and supports the Ministry of Science and ICT’s vision to drive innovation in radiobiology. We are excited to contribute to the growth of the local radiopharmaceuticals sector alongside SK Biopharmaceuticals.”
Dong-Hoon Lee, CEO of SK Biopharmaceuticals, added: “This agreement is an important milestone in strengthening and expanding our research capabilities. By enhancing our partnerships, we are positioning SK Biopharmaceuticals as a global leader in radiopharmaceutical therapies.”
Through this collaboration, SK Biopharmaceuticals and KIRAMS are poised to revolutionize cancer treatment, enhance radiopharmaceutical therapy potential, and drive significant advancements in nuclear medicine.