EUROPA Project: Subatech at the forefront of laser-plasma innovation in the fight against cancer
A Subatech team at the helm
The project is led by a team of experts from our laboratory, drawn from the PRISMA team, renowned for its expertise in the production of medical isotopes. Antoine Maitrallain is responsible for overall coordination. He is supported by Julie Champion, Vincent Métivier, and Nathalie Michel, who are contributing their expertise to demonstrate the viability of a breakthrough technology: laser-plasma acceleration (LPA).
Miniaturizing the production of medical radioisotopes
The challenge is considerable: facilitating the production of artificial radioactive isotopes that are essential for targeted radionuclide therapy to destroy cancer cells, but also to diagnose them. Currently, this production depends on heavy and costly facilities (cyclotrons, nuclear reactors) that are often saturated. The innovation championed by the team consists of using high-power lasers to generate particle beams that trigger nuclear reactions using more compact equipment. The goal is not only miniaturization, but also:
- Accessibility: creating production units that are easier to install in research centers or hospitals.
- Safety: reducing the need for heavy radiation protection.
- Agility: enabling fundamental research to no longer be hampered by current industrial logistics.
An upcoming launch in Nantes
The EUROPA project, with a budget of €3.5 million, will reach a key milestone on April 9 and 10 in Nantes, when it will be officially launched in the presence of all partners. Through this project, Subatech confirms its leading role in the development of innovative solutions for the nuclear medicine of tomorrow, paving the way for new cancer treatments.