Texas A&M Scientists Unlock Potential of Astatine-211 for Cancer Treatment

Scientists at Texas A&M University have unlocked the potential of astatine-211, the rarest naturally occurring element on Earth, for cancer treatment. Using cyclotron beams and advanced chemical techniques, researchers have developed methods to produce, isolate, and transport this isotope.

Astatine-211, or At-211, has a half-life of only 7.2 hours, yet it exhibits remarkable promise in targeted cancer therapies. Often referred to as the 'Goldilocks' isotope, At-211 is known for its ability to deliver precisely the right amount of radiation, effectively destroying cancer cells while sparing surrounding healthy tissue.

Within the Texas A&M Cyclotron Institute, scientists produce At-211 using the K150 cyclotron with support from the U.S. Department of Energy's Isotope Program. As of 2023, Texas A&M is one of only two national suppliers of astatine for targeted cancer therapy through the National Isotope Development Center.

Dr. Sherry J. Yennello, a distinguished professor at Texas A&M, emphasizes the potential of targeted alpha therapy to cause significant damage to tumor cells while preserving healthy tissues. Astatine-211 emits alpha particles, which are effective in destroying cancer cells due to their short travel distance, minimizing collateral damage.

The isotope's short half-life also contributes to its safety profile, making it less toxic than longer-lived alternatives. Moreover, At-211 does not produce harmful secondary alpha decay, ensuring efficient therapeutic energy usage.

Texas A&M has made significant strides in isotope production, including an automated system for the purification and shipping of At-211. This patent-pending technology allows for larger quantities of the isotope to be shipped with minimal decay, enhancing its viability as a next-generation cancer treatment.

Collaborations with institutions like the University of Alabama at Birmingham and MD Anderson Cancer Center have facilitated significant shipments of At-211, aiding in the development of targeted alpha therapy drugs.

Dr. Yennello and her colleagues are set to present their findings at the upcoming World Astatine Community Meeting in 2025, which aims to gather global researchers focused on expanding At-211's role in cancer treatment.

Interest in At-211 is growing internationally, with ongoing initiatives in Japan and several European countries. This pioneering research on astatine-211 is supported by the DOE Office of Science, Texas A&M's Bright Chair in Nuclear Science, and partnerships with Los Alamos National Laboratory.