SHINE Technologies has secured a $32 million award from the Department of Energy's National Nuclear Security Administration to advance its medical isotope production facility, Chrysalis, in Janesville, Wisconsin.

The funding augments an existing cooperative agreement aimed at establishing a reliable U.S. supply of molybdenum-99 (Mo-99), the medical isotope used in approximately 40 million SPECT exams annually.

Chrysalis is built to produce Mo-99 without highly enriched uranium, addressing a significant need in nuclear medicine. The facility's domestic production capabilities will mitigate current issues related to Mo-99's short half-life and the inefficiencies of cross-continental transportation, ensuring a more stable supply chain.

"We are very grateful for the DOE and NNSA's continued support to advance the domestic production of Mo-99," said Greg Piefer, founder and CEO of SHINE. "By creating a modern source of neutrons, we're helping solve critical isotope supply challenges here and now with a more sustainable platform for the long term."

Senator Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin highlighted the state's role in advancing medical technologies, stating, "I am proud to support this investment, boosting our "Made in Wisconsin" economy, and helping give our healthcare providers the tools they need to diagnose and treat serious diseases like heart disease and cancer."

SHINE's cooperative agreement with DOE/NNSA, established in 2021 through a competitive process, operates under a 50%-50% cost-sharing arrangement. The additional funds bring the total DOE/NNSA contribution to $74 million, with a cumulative $114 million awarded to SHINE since 2010.

The company aims to commence commercial Mo-99 production in early 2027.

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