Niowave has signed a long-term agreement to supply actinium-225 to Novartis, expanding access to a key isotope used in radioligand therapies for cancer.

The Lansing, Michigan-based isotope manufacturer said the deal provides Novartis with a scalable supply of actinium-225, also known as Ac-225, to support its pipeline of radioligand therapy (RLT) programs. Financial terms were not disclosed.

RLTs pair a targeting molecule with a radioactive isotope to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells. Actinium-225 emits alpha particles, which deposit high-energy radiation over a short range, a property that has drawn interest for treating certain solid tumors and hematologic malignancies while limiting exposure to surrounding tissue.
Global supply of Ac-225 has been constrained, posing challenges for clinical development and potential commercialization of alpha-emitting therapies. Niowave produces medical isotopes using superconducting linear accelerator technology and radiochemistry processes designed for sustained production.

“Our new agreement with Novartis underscores Niowave’s leading position as a trusted global supplier of medical radioisotopes,” said Mike Zamiara, CEO of Niowave. “Niowave’s ability to provide a dependable, scalable supply of Actinium-225 will contribute to the advancement of Novartis’s targeted cancer therapies, and has the potential to meaningfully transform cancer care on a global scale.”

To support anticipated demand, Niowave said it plans to begin construction of a new manufacturing facility in Lansing in early 2026. The company did not provide details on projected production capacity or timelines for completion.

Novartis has been expanding its radioligand therapy portfolio in recent years, including approved and investigational treatments targeting difficult-to-treat cancers.

Solomon Partners and PMCF advised Niowave on the transaction.

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