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Belgian company PanTera is a next-generation radiopharmaceutical manufacturer specializing in the production of radioisotopes. Founded in 2022 as a joint venture by particle accelerator technology expert IBA and Belgium's nuclear research center SCK CEN, PanTera aims to become a large-scale producer of actinium-225 (225-Ac), a crucial component in targeted alpha therapies for cancer treatment.
The central technology in this article is actinium-225 (225-Ac), which is used in a new class of cancer treatments known as targeted alpha therapies. These therapies utilize radioisotopes that emit highly energetic alpha particles to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells. This method offers improved efficacy and safety profiles as it minimizes radiation damage to surrounding healthy tissue compared to traditional beta-emitting isotopes. PanTera is developing a patented photo-nuclear gamma production process that transforms radium-226 into radium-225, which decays into 225-Ac, ensuring a reliable, safe, and high-quality supply for both clinical trials and future commercial therapies.
PanTera has recently secured 93 million euros in a Series A funding round led by EQT Life Sciences, marking the largest Series A investment in Belgium's life sciences sector. Including additional funding sources such as 7.2 million euros in equity from IBA and SFPIM, as well as 33.8 million euros in debt financing, PanTera has raised a total of 134 million euros. The funds will primarily support the construction of a state-of-the-art production facility in Belgium to address the global shortage of 225-Ac. PanTera's CEO, Sven Van den Berghe, emphasized the company's strategy to improve both short-term and long-term supply of this critical isotope. The company has already secured supply agreements with several pharmaceutical companies, including Bayer.
In the background, the demand for 225-Ac is driven by its potential in targeted alpha therapies for cancer treatment. The global radiopharmaceutical market is expected to grow significantly, with 225-Ac playing a pivotal role due to its targeted nature and ability to minimize damage to healthy tissues. PanTera's collaboration with TerraPower Isotopes and its innovative production process positions it to be a major player in this expanding market.
Regarding competition, PanTera faces rivals such as Novartis, which has been a pioneer in the radiopharmaceutical field with products like Lutathera and Pluvicto. Novartis is expanding its portfolio to include alpha-emitting therapies and is investing heavily in manufacturing facilities. Another competitor, RayzeBio, has drawn significant attention with its platform based on 225-Ac, prompting a $4.1 billion acquisition by Bristol Myers Squibb. These companies highlight the competitive landscape in the radiopharmaceutical sector, particularly in the production and application of 225-Ac.
PanTera's comprehensive strategy and strong financial backing place it in a favorable position
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