by
Gus Iversen, Editor in Chief | February 23, 2026
The University of Kansas Medical Center and the University of Kansas Health System are joining with Children’s Mercy and BAMF Health to develop an integrated theranostics platform for adult and pediatric patients in Kansas City.
“While there are radiopharmaceutical treatments being used at the University of Kansas Cancer Center, there is great potential for radiopharmaceuticals designed to detect and treat a range of diseases,” said Dr. Matthias Salathe, chief research officer for the University of Kansas. “The number of clinical trials in this area is growing exponentially, including neurologic conditions. Through this collaboration, we can offer our patients access to promising, cutting-edge investigational agents through participation in clinical trials.”
The partners said the collaboration is intended to support on-site radiopharmaceutical production, molecular imaging, radiopharmaceutical therapy and radioligand clinical trials within a single system. The Kansas City, Kansas-based academic medical center and health system will work alongside the Kansas City, Missouri-based Children’s Mercy and the Grand Rapids, Michigan-based BAMF Health.
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Theranostics uses radiopharmaceuticals to both identify and treat disease, relying on the same molecular target for imaging and therapy. By directing radiation to specific cells, the approach is designed to limit exposure to surrounding tissue. While the University of Kansas Cancer Center currently offers theranostic treatments for certain metastatic prostate and neuroendocrine cancers, leaders say research activity in the field is expanding.
Children’s Mercy officials noted that theranostics has been used primarily in adult populations to date.
“At Children’s Mercy, we believe the future of pediatric care is built through bold collaborations and a shared commitment to what’s possible,” said Dr. Alejandro Quiroga, MBA, president and CEO. “By joining forces with the University of Kansas Health System, the University of Kansas Medical Center and BAMF Health, we are taking a decisive step toward redefining how children access the most advanced care.”
