BEIJING: Chinese researchers have successfully extracted cancer-fighting nuclides from rare earth minerals, a breakthrough that could advance targeted treatments for various types of cancer. The University of South China announced that its scientists isolated high-purity lead-212 and bismuth-212 nuclides, which are known for their potential in targeted alpha-nuclide therapy (TAT). This emerging treatment aims to address cancers such as breast, pancreatic, and prostate. According to Anadolu Agency, the university's research team developed an efficient and cost-effective method to separate these nuclides using a halide medium. The process employs a novel adsorbent material known as a 'silica-supported anion exchange resin.' This innovation reportedly allows for adsorption speeds more than six times faster than those achieved with traditional resins, providing significant benefits in isolating short-lived nuclides. The research team is now focusing on extracting additional nuclides, including radium-228, thori um-228, and radium-224, to further enhance the potential of targeted alpha-nuclide therapy.