Media

OTTAWA, January 24, 2011  —  The University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI) will take part in a major research project that may lead to the production of medical isotopes without use of a nuclear reactor or weapons-grade uranium.

As part of Natural Resources Canada’s Non-reactor-based Isotope Supply Contribution Program (NISP), this collaborative project will explore the technical and economic feasibility of producing medical isotopes using high energy X-rays, which would provide a much safer, more reliable and less expensive alternative to nuclear reactors. Led by Canadian Light Source (CLS), this project will receive a total of $12 million. Researchers from the UOHI will collaborate on the clinical validation studies once the isotopes have been harvested.

“The University of Ottawa is proud to be part of this important collaborative project. As one of Canada’s top research intensive institutions, we strive to make invaluable contributions towards the health and wellbeing of Canadians,” said Mona Nemer, vice-president, research.

In addition to the UOHI, collaborating institutions include the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes and the University Health Network.

For more information on this project, read the press release issued by Canadian Light Source at www.lightsource.ca/medicalisotopes/.

About the University of Ottawa Heart Institute
The University of Ottawa Heart Institute (UOHI) is Canada's largest and foremost cardiovascular health centre dedicated to understanding, treating and preventing heart disease. The Institute delivers high-tech care with a personal touch, shapes the way cardiovascular medicine is practiced, and revolutionizes cardiac treatment and understanding. The UOHI builds knowledge through research and translates discoveries into advanced care. The Institute serves the local, national and international community, and is pioneering a new era in heart health. For more information, visit www.ottawaheart.ca.