Advanced Cyclotron Solutions Applauds Federal Government's Decision to Fund
R&D for New Options to Make Medical Isotopes
RICHMOND, BC, March 31 /CNW Telbec/ - Advanced Cyclotron Solutions Inc (ASCI) today applauded the Federal Government for their decision to significantly invest in the development of new technologies for the creation of medical isotopes.
The Federal Government made the announcement as part of their response to the Expert Panel Report on Isotope Production. The government will invest $35 million in non-reactor based technologies for the production of technetium-99m, the medical isotope that has been in short supply since the shut down of the Chalk River reactor.
The Government release can be found here: http://bit.ly/8ZZZgj
"We are pleased the government has taken the advice of the Expert Panel, and seen both the need and desirability of making an investment in new technologies for the production of these isotopes," says ACSI President Richard Eppich.
Last fall, ACSI proposed to collaborate with 6 Canadian universities and research centres to establish a National Cyclotron Network. ACSI intends to use this proposal as the basis for their response to the Government's competitive RFP to access the R&D funds.
"From the technology to the manufacturing, processing and distribution of medical isotopes, the National Cyclotron Network is a true "Made in Canada" solution to the shortage Canada is now experiencing," says Eppich. "Along with the substantial economic benefits, this solution is nuclear free - it does not use weapons grade plutonium, or create nuclear waste."
ACSI proposes to use any of the R&D money it receives to further commercialize the use of its new TR-24 cyclotron to produce technetium-99m.
"We are confident cyclotron technology can play a significant role in ensuring the long-term stability of Canada's medical isotope supply, and we look forward to continuing to work with the Federal Government on these solutions," concludes Eppich.
For further information: and/or to arrange an interview please contact Marcella Munro at (604) 345-3214
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