SK biopharmaceuticals said it entered into a research collaboration agreement with the Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Services (KIRAMS) to jointly develop Actinium-225 (Ac-225)-based radiopharmaceutical therapies (RPT).

The partnership marks the first such collaboration for KIRAMS and aims to identify at least one innovative preclinical drug candidate and explore new cancer treatment targets.

Actinium-225, a powerful alpha particle-emitting radioisotope, selectively destroys cancer cells and is considered a critical material for next-generation cancer therapies. SK biopharmaceuticals has secured a stable supply of Ac-225 through a contract with U.S.-based TerraPower and has already initiated preclinical studies with the acquired material.

In a previously announced RPT roadmap, the company unveiled plans to become a global leader in radiopharmaceuticals by 2027. Through this collaboration, the company plans to submit an investigational new drug (IND) application by the same year.

Unlike traditional outsourcing models, the collaboration emphasizes shared responsibility, with both organizations working closely to discover innovative drug candidates.

By leveraging KIRAMS’ specialized facilities, regulatory expertise, and trained personnel, the company expects to reduce both the time and cost involved in developing novel radiopharmaceuticals.

“This collaboration aligns with the Ministry of Science and ICT’s strategy for advancing radiopharmaceuticals in the biotechnology sector,” KIRAMS President Lee Jin-kyoung said. “By spearheading this emerging field with SK biopharmaceuticals, we aim to contribute to the growth of Korea’s radiopharmaceuticals industry.”

SK biopharmaceuticals CEO Lee Dong-hoon also said, “This agreement represents a pivotal moment in enhancing our RPT research capabilities.”

Through close cooperation, the company will continue its efforts to emerge as a global leader in the radiopharmaceuticals sector, Lee added.