Abstract
In order to develop a $^{18}F$-labelled myocardial perfusion agent(flow tracer) for PET, $^{18}F$-labelled organic ammonium cations were synthesized and evaluated in relation to their biodistribution. Five quaternary organic ammonium compounds were labelled with $^{18}F$ in a side chain with moderate to good yields by direct introduction of $^{18}F$-fluoride. Radiochemical yields have been achieved in 30-40min by the precursors (tosylates) in dimethylsulfoxide 15-60% (decay corrected). The reaction was found to be autocatalyzed. A remote controlled procedure was developed in these synthesis. $^{18}F$-Labelling and HPLC-purification of com-pounds needed about 60 min(Yield; 7-20%). Up to now the two compounds N-4-[$^{18}F$]fluorobutyl-pyridinium cation(1) and N, N dibenzyl-4(2-[$^{18}F$]fluoroethyl)piperidinium cation(2) were investigated in relation to their biodistribution in mice. Compound 1 showed at 1 min post injection the high uptake of 19.22% ID/g organ in the myocardium but a following fast decline to 1.12% ID/g organ after 40min. Uptake of compound 2 was after 1min in the heart 5.90% ID/g organ but after 40min at the relative high value of 4.33% ID/g organ. Heart:blood ratio for compound(1) at 1 min was 8.3, at 40 min 2.6 for compound II 2.0(1min) and 15.0(40 min). As data of compound 2 showed greater heart uptake, slower myocardial release, and higher heart: blood ratios, compound 2 is a good candidate for further evaluation.
