Synthesis 2019; 51(23): 4368-4373
DOI: 10.1055/s-0037-1611885
special topic
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Radiohalogenation of Organic Compounds: Practical Considerations and Challenges for Molecular Imaging

Financial support from the University of Glasgow is gratefully acknowledged.
Further Information

Publication History

Received: 29 May 2019

Accepted after revision: 18 June 2019

Publication Date:
03 July 2019 (online)


Published as part of the Special Topic Halogenation methods (with a view towards radioimaging applications)

Abstract

In the last few decades, advances in molecular imaging technologies have had a major impact on many aspects of healthcare. In particular, radiohalogenated compounds have been used for non-invasive visualization of human anatomy, for the diagnosis of disease and in drug development programs. As a consequence of these advances, a range of novel synthetic radiochemical methods have been reported that allow more effective and efficient radiohalogenation from a broader range of precursors. In developing new radiochemical methods, special requirements are required to optimize the incorporation of highly radioactive, short-lived, isotopically labelled reagents. This article highlights the key practical considerations and challenges encountered when utilizing the most commonly used radiohalogens in nuclear medicine.

1 Introduction

2 Synthetic Challenges for Radiohalogenation

2.1 Radiofluorination

2.2 Radioiodination

3 Conclusions and Future Outlook