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Boschi A, Urso L, Uccelli L, Martini P, Filippi L. 99mTc-labeled FAPI compounds for cancer and inflammation: from radiochemistry to the first clinical applications. EJNMMI Radiopharm Chem 2024; 9:36. [PMID: 38695960 PMCID: PMC11065808 DOI: 10.1186/s41181-024-00264-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, fibroblast activating protein (FAP), a biomarker overexpressed by cancer-associated fibroblasts, has emerged as one of the most promising biomarkers in oncology. Similarly, FAP overexpression has been detected in various fibroblast-mediated inflammatory conditions such as liver cirrhosis and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. Along this trajectory, FAP-targeted positron emission tomography (PET), utilizing FAP inhibitors (FAPi) labeled with positron emitters, has gained traction as a powerful imaging approach in both cancer and inflammation. However, PET represents a high-cost technology, and its widespread adoption is still limited compared to the availability of gamma cameras. To address this issue, several efforts have been made to explore the potential of [99mTc]Tc-FAPi tracers as molecular probes for imaging with gamma cameras and single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). MAIN BODY Several approaches have been investigated for labeling FAPi-based compounds with 99mTc. Specifically, the mono-oxo, tricarbonyl, isonitrile, and HYNIC strategies have been applied to produce [99mTc]Tc-FAPi tracers, which have been tested in vitro and in animal models. Overall, these labeling approaches have demonstrated high efficiency and strong binding. The resulting [99mTc]Tc-FAPi tracers have shown high specificity for FAP-positive cells and xenografts in both in vitro and animal model studies, respectively. However, the majority of [99mTc]Tc-FAPi tracers have exhibited variable levels of lipophilicity, leading to preferential excretion through the hepatobiliary route and undesirable binding to lipoproteins. Consequently, efforts have been made to synthesize more hydrophilic FAPi-based compounds to improve pharmacokinetic properties and achieve a more favorable biodistribution, particularly in the abdominal region. SPECT imaging with [99mTc]Tc-FAPi has yielded promising results in patients with gastrointestinal tumors, demonstrating comparable or superior diagnostic performance compared to other imaging modalities. Similarly, encouraging outcomes have been observed in subjects with gliomas, lung cancer, breast cancer, and cervical cancer. Beyond oncological applications, [99mTc]Tc-FAPi-based imaging has been successfully employed in myocardial and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. CONCLUSIONS This overview focuses on the various radiochemical strategies for obtaining [99mTc]Tc-FAPi tracers, highlighting the main challenges encountered and possible solutions when applying each distinct approach. Additionally, it covers the preclinical and initial clinical applications of [99mTc]Tc-FAPi in cancer and inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Boschi
- Department of Chemical, Pharmaceutical and Agricultural Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via L. Borsari, 46, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Luca Urso
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara, 70 c/o viale Eliporto, 44121, Ferrara, Italy
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Ferrara Hospital, Via A. Moro, 8, 44124, Ferrara, Italy
| | - Licia Uccelli
- Department of Translational Medicine, University of Ferrara, Via Fossato di Mortara, 70 c/o viale Eliporto, 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Ferrara Hospital, Via A. Moro, 8, 44124, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Petra Martini
- Department of Environmental and Prevention Sciences, University of Ferrara, Via L. Borsari, 46 44121, Ferrara, Italy.
| | - Luca Filippi
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, Department of Oncohaematology, Fondazione PTV Policlinico Tor Vergata University Hospital, Rome, Italy
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Mardanshahi A, Vaseghi S, Hosseinimehr SJ, Abedi SM, Molavipordanjani S. 99mTc(CO) 3-labeled 1-(2-Pyridyl)piperazine derivatives as radioligands for 5-HT 7 receptors. Ann Nucl Med 2024; 38:139-153. [PMID: 38032496 DOI: 10.1007/s12149-023-01885-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor (5-HTR) family includes seven classes of receptors. The 5-HT7R is the newest member of this family and contributes to different physiological and pathological processes. As a pathology, glioblastoma multiform (GBM) overexpresses 5-HT7R; hence, this study aims to develop radiolabeled aryl piperazine derivatives as 5-HT7R imaging agents. METHODS: Compounds 6 and 7 as 1-(3-nitropyridin-2-yl)piperazine derivatives were radiolabeled with fac-[99mTc(CO)3(H2O)3]+ and 99mTc(CO)3-[6] and 99mTc(CO)3-[7] were obtained with high radiochemical purity (RCP > 94%). The stability of the radiotracers was evaluated in both saline and mouse serum. Specific binding on different cell lines including U-87 MG, MCF-7, SKBR3, and HT-29 was performed. The biodistribution of these radiotracers was evaluated in normal and U-87 MG Xenografted models. Finally, 99mTc(CO)3-[6] and 99mTc(CO)3-[7] were applied for in vivo imaging in U-87 MG Xenografted models. RESULTS Specific binding study indicates that 99mTc(CO)3-[6] and 99mTc(CO)3-[7] can recognize 5-HT7R of U87-MG cell line. The biodistribution study in normal mice indicates that the brain uptake of 99mTc(CO)3-[6] and 99mTc(CO)3-[7] is the highest at 30 min post-injection (0.8 ± 0.25 and 0.64 ± 0.18%ID/g, respectively). The data of the biodistribution study in the U87-MG xenograft model revealed that these radiotracers could accumulate in the tumor site, and the highest tumor uptake was observed at 60 min post-injection (3.38 ± 0.65 and 3.27 ± 0.5%ID/g, respectively). The injection of pimozide can block the tumor's radiotracer uptake, indicating the binding of these radiotracers to the 5-HT7R. The imaging study in the xenograft model also confirms the biodistribution data. The acquired images clearly show the tumor site, and the tumor-to-muscle ratio for 99mTc(CO)3-[6] and 99mTc(CO)3-[7] at 60 min was 3.33 and 3.88, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: 99mTc(CO)3-[6] and 99mTc(CO)3-[7] can visualize tumor in the U87-MG xenograft model due to their affinity toward 5-HT7R.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alireza Mardanshahi
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Samaneh Vaseghi
- Department of Chemistry, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Jalal Hosseinimehr
- Department of Radiopharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Abedi
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Cardiovascular Research Center, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sajjad Molavipordanjani
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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Kelderman CAA, Maclean RC, Hungnes IN, Davey PRWJ, Salimova E, de Veer M, Patel N, Ma MT, Paterson BM. Technetium Nitrido Complexes of Tetradentate Thiosemicarbazones: Kit-Based Radiolabeling, Characterization, and In Vivo Evaluation. Inorg Chem 2023; 62:20791-20805. [PMID: 37855107 DOI: 10.1021/acs.inorgchem.3c02650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Bis(thiosemicarbazone) and pyridylhydrazone-thiosemicarbazone chelators have demonstrated utility in nuclear medicine. In particular, the 64Cu2+ complexes have been extensively developed for hypoxia imaging and molecular imaging of peptide and protein markers of disease. However, the chemistry and application of bis(thiosemicarbazone) and pyridylhydrazone-thiosemicarbazone chelators in combination with 99mTc, the most widely used radionuclide in nuclear medicine, is underexplored. Herein, a series of bis(thiosemicarbazone) and pyridylhydrazone-thiosemicarbazone chelators were radiolabeled with nitrido-technetium-99m in an optimized one-pot synthesis from [99mTc]TcO4-. Optimization of the radiochemical syntheses allowed for production of the complexes in >90% radiochemical conversion with apparent molar activities of 3.3-5 GBq/μmol. Competition experiments demonstrated the excellent stability of the complexes. The nitrido-technetium-99 complexes were synthesized, and the chemical identities were investigated using mass spectrometry, spectroscopy, and density functional theory calculations. Complexation of nitrido-rhenium(V) was achieved with the N4-dialkylated bis(thiosemicarbazones). Planar imaging and ex vivo biodistribution studies of the five 99mTc complexes were conducted on healthy BALB/c mice to determine in vivo behavior. The lipophilic nature of the complexes resulted in uptake of 1.6-5.7% ID g-1 in the brain at 2 min postinjection and retention of 0.4-1.7% ID g-1 at 15 min postinjection. The stability of the complexes and the biodistribution data demonstrate that these chelators are ideal platforms for future production of radiopharmaceutical candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rachel C Maclean
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Ingebjørg N Hungnes
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St. Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Patrick R W J Davey
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, British Columbia V5A 1S6, Canada
| | - Ekaterina Salimova
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Michael de Veer
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
| | - Natasha Patel
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St. Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Michelle T Ma
- School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St. Thomas' Hospital, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom
| | - Brett M Paterson
- School of Chemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
- Centre for Advanced Imaging, The University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
- Monash Biomedical Imaging, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3800, Australia
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Pitton Rissardo J, Caprara ALF. Neuroimaging Techniques in Differentiating Parkinson's Disease from Drug-Induced Parkinsonism: A Comprehensive Review. Clin Pract 2023; 13:1427-1448. [PMID: 37987429 PMCID: PMC10660852 DOI: 10.3390/clinpract13060128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuroimaging can provide significant benefits in evaluating patients with movement disorders associated with drugs. This literature review describes neuroimaging techniques performed to distinguish Parkinson's disease from drug-induced parkinsonism. The dopaminergic radiotracers already reported to assess patients with drug-induced parkinsonism are [123I]-FP-CIT, [123I]-β-CIT, [99mTc]-TRODAT-1, [18F]-DOPA, [18F]-AV-133, and [18F]-FP-CIT. The most studied one and the one with the highest number of publications is [123I]-FP-CIT. Fludeoxyglucose (18F) revealed a specific pattern that could predict individuals susceptible to developing drug-induced parkinsonism. Another scintigraphy method is [123I]-MIBG cardiac imaging, in which a relationship between abnormal cardiac imaging and normal dopamine transporter imaging was associated with a progression to degenerative disease in individuals with drug-induced parkinsonism. Structural brain magnetic resonance imaging can be used to assess the striatal region. A transcranial ultrasound is a non-invasive method with significant benefits regarding costs and availability. Optic coherence tomography only showed abnormalities in the late phase of Parkinson's disease, so no benefit in distinguishing early-phase Parkinson's disease and drug-induced parkinsonism was found. Most methods demonstrated a high specificity in differentiating degenerative from non-degenerative conditions, but the sensitivity widely varied in the studies. An algorithm was designed based on clinical manifestations, neuroimaging, and drug dose adjustment to assist in the management of patients with drug-induced parkinsonism.
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Kauffman N, Morrison J, O’Brien K, Fan J, Zinn KR. Intra-Arterial Delivery of Radiopharmaceuticals in Oncology: Current Trends and the Future of Alpha-Particle Therapeutics. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15041138. [PMID: 37111624 PMCID: PMC10144492 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15041138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/30/2023] [Indexed: 04/07/2023] Open
Abstract
A paradigm shift is underway in cancer diagnosis and therapy using radioactivity-based agents called radiopharmaceuticals. In the new strategy, diagnostic imaging measures the tumor uptake of radioactive agent “X” in a patient’s specific cancer, and if uptake metrics are realized, the patient can be selected for therapy with radioactive agent “Y”. The X and Y represent different radioisotopes that are optimized for each application. X–Y pairs are known as radiotheranostics, with the currently approved route of therapy being intravenous administration. The field is now evaluating the potential of intra-arterial dosing of radiotheranostics. In this manner, a higher initial concentration can be achieved at the cancer site, which could potentially enhance tumor-to-background targeting and lead to improved imaging and therapy. Numerous clinical trials are underway to evaluate these new therapeutic approaches that can be performed via interventional radiology. Of further interest is changing the therapeutic radioisotope that provides radiation therapy by β- emission to radioisotopes that also decay by α-particle emissions. Alpha (α)-particle emissions provide high energy transfer to the tumors and have distinct advantages. This review discusses the current landscape of intra-arterially delivered radiopharmaceuticals and the future of α-particle therapy with short-lived radioisotopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan Kauffman
- Comparative Medicine and Integrative Biology, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - James Morrison
- Advanced Radiology Services, 3264 N Evergreen Dr, Grand Rapids, MI 49525, USA
| | - Kevin O’Brien
- Department of Radiology, Henry Ford Health System, Detroit, MI 48202, USA
| | - Jinda Fan
- Departments of Radiology and Chemistry, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Kurt R. Zinn
- Departments of Radiology, Biomedical Engineering, Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
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Karimi M, Mardanshahi A, Irannejad H, Mohammad Abedi S, Molavipordanjani S. Synthesis and evaluation of 99mTc-labeled 1-(2-Pyridyl)piperazine derivatives as radioligands for 5HT 7 receptors. Bioorg Chem 2023; 135:106486. [PMID: 36965286 DOI: 10.1016/j.bioorg.2023.106486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/27/2023]
Abstract
Glioblastoma multiform (GBM) is one of the most aggressive tumors of the central nervous system in humans. GBM overexpresses serotonin-7 receptors (5-HT7Rs); hence, this study aims to develop 5-HT7R targeted radiotracers. Aryl piperazine derivatives can act as ligands for 5-HT7R. Therefore, compounds 6 and 7 as 1-(3-nitropyridin-2-yl)piperazine derivatives were synthesized and radiolabeled with 99mTcN2+ core. Radiolabeled 6 and 7 (99mTcN-[6] and 99mTcN-[7]) were prepared with high radiochemical purity (RCP > 96%). They displayed high affinity toward U-87 MG cell line 5-HT7R. The calculated Ki for 99mTcN-[7] was lower than that of 99mTcN-[6] (14.85 ± 0.32 vs 22.57 ± 0.73 nM) which indicates the higher affinity of 99mTcN-[7] toward 5-HT7R. A molecular docking study also confirmed the binding of these radiotracers to 5-HT7R. The biodistribution study in normal mice revealed that 99mTcN-[7] has the highest brain accumulation at 30 min post-injection (0.54 ± 0.12 %ID/g) while the uptake of 99mTcN-[6] is much lower (0.14 ± 0.02 %ID/g). The biodistribution study in the xenograft model confirms that the radiotracers recognize the tumor site. 99mTcN-[6], and 99mTcN-[7] showed the highest tumor uptake at 1-hour post-injection (5.44 ± 0.58 vs 4.94 ± 1.65 %ID/g) and tumor-to-muscle ratios were (4.61 vs. 5.61). The injection of pimozide blocks the receptors and significantly reduces the tumor-to-muscle ratios at 1-hour post-injection to 0.81 and 0.31, respectively. In correlation with in vitro study, 99mTcN-[6] and 99mTcN-[7] visualize the tumor site in U-87 MG glioma xenografted nude mice and display the tumor-to-muscle ratios of 7.05 and 6.03.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Karimi
- Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Alireza Mardanshahi
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Hamid Irannejad
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Faculty of Pharmacy, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Abedi
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran
| | - Sajjad Molavipordanjani
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Hemoglobinopathy Institute, Mazandaran University of Medical Sciences, Sari, Iran.
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Crișan G, Moldovean-Cioroianu NS, Timaru DG, Andrieș G, Căinap C, Chiș V. Radiopharmaceuticals for PET and SPECT Imaging: A Literature Review over the Last Decade. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23095023. [PMID: 35563414 PMCID: PMC9103893 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23095023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2022] [Revised: 04/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Positron emission tomography (PET) uses radioactive tracers and enables the functional imaging of several metabolic processes, blood flow measurements, regional chemical composition, and/or chemical absorption. Depending on the targeted processes within the living organism, different tracers are used for various medical conditions, such as cancer, particular brain pathologies, cardiac events, and bone lesions, where the most commonly used tracers are radiolabeled with 18F (e.g., [18F]-FDG and NA [18F]). Oxygen-15 isotope is mostly involved in blood flow measurements, whereas a wide array of 11C-based compounds have also been developed for neuronal disorders according to the affected neuroreceptors, prostate cancer, and lung carcinomas. In contrast, the single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) technique uses gamma-emitting radioisotopes and can be used to diagnose strokes, seizures, bone illnesses, and infections by gauging the blood flow and radio distribution within tissues and organs. The radioisotopes typically used in SPECT imaging are iodine-123, technetium-99m, xenon-133, thallium-201, and indium-111. This systematic review article aims to clarify and disseminate the available scientific literature focused on PET/SPECT radiotracers and to provide an overview of the conducted research within the past decade, with an additional focus on the novel radiopharmaceuticals developed for medical imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Crișan
- Faculty of Physics, Babeş-Bolyai University, Str. M. Kogălniceanu 1, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (G.C.); (N.S.M.-C.); (D.-G.T.)
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, County Clinical Hospital, Clinicilor 3-5, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | | | - Diana-Gabriela Timaru
- Faculty of Physics, Babeş-Bolyai University, Str. M. Kogălniceanu 1, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (G.C.); (N.S.M.-C.); (D.-G.T.)
| | - Gabriel Andrieș
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, County Clinical Hospital, Clinicilor 3-5, 400006 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Călin Căinap
- The Oncology Institute “Prof. Dr. Ion Chiricuţă”, Republicii 34-36, 400015 Cluj-Napoca, Romania;
| | - Vasile Chiș
- Faculty of Physics, Babeş-Bolyai University, Str. M. Kogălniceanu 1, 400084 Cluj-Napoca, Romania; (G.C.); (N.S.M.-C.); (D.-G.T.)
- Institute for Research, Development and Innovation in Applied Natural Sciences, Babeș-Bolyai University, Str. Fântânele 30, 400327 Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Correspondence:
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Brunello S, Salvarese N, Carpanese D, Gobbi C, Melendez-Alafort L, Bolzati C. A Review on the Current State and Future Perspectives of [ 99mTc]Tc-Housed PSMA-i in Prostate Cancer. Molecules 2022; 27:molecules27092617. [PMID: 35565970 PMCID: PMC9099988 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27092617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2022] [Revised: 04/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) has gained momentum in tumor nuclear molecular imaging as an excellent target for both the diagnosis and therapy of prostate cancer. Since 2008, after years of preclinical research efforts, a plentitude of radiolabeled compounds mainly based on low molecular weight PSMA inhibitors (PSMA-i) have been described for imaging and theranostic applications, and some of them have been transferred to the clinic. Most of these compounds include radiometals (e.g., 68Ga, 64Cu, 177Lu) for positron emission tomography (PET) imaging or endoradiotherapy. Nowadays, although the development of new PET tracers has caused a significant drop in single-photon emission tomography (SPECT) research programs and the development of new technetium-99m (99mTc) tracers is rare, this radionuclide remains the best atom for SPECT imaging owing to its ideal physical decay properties, convenient availability, and rich and versatile coordination chemistry. Indeed, 99mTc still plays a relevant role in diagnostic nuclear medicine, as the number of clinical examinations based on 99mTc outscores that of PET agents and 99mTc-PSMA SPECT/CT may be a cost-effective alternative for 68Ga-PSMA PET/CT. This review aims to give an overview of the specific features of the developed [99mTc]Tc-tagged PSMA agents with particular attention to [99mTc]Tc-PSMA-i. The chemical and pharmacological properties of the latter will be compared and discussed, highlighting the pros and cons with respect to [68Ga]Ga-PSMA11.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Brunello
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy; (S.B.); (N.S.)
| | - Nicola Salvarese
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy; (S.B.); (N.S.)
| | - Debora Carpanese
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35124 Padova, Italy;
| | - Carolina Gobbi
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padova, Via Marzolo 5, 35131 Padova, Italy;
| | - Laura Melendez-Alafort
- Immunology and Molecular Oncology Unit, Veneto Institute of Oncology IOV-IRCCS, Via Gattamelata 64, 35124 Padova, Italy;
- Correspondence: (L.M.-A.); (C.B.)
| | - Cristina Bolzati
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti 4, 35127 Padova, Italy; (S.B.); (N.S.)
- Correspondence: (L.M.-A.); (C.B.)
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Impact of Different [Tc(N)PNP]-Scaffolds on the Biological Properties of the Small cRGDfK Peptide: Synthesis, In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluations. MOLECULES (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 27:molecules27082548. [PMID: 35458745 PMCID: PMC9029856 DOI: 10.3390/molecules27082548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: The [99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP)] system, where PNP is a bisphosphinoamine, is an interesting platform for the development of tumor ‘receptor-specific’ agents. Here, we compared the reactivity and impact of three [Tc(N)(PNP)] frameworks on the stability, receptor targeting properties, biodistribution, and metabolism of the corresponding [99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP)]-tagged cRGDfK peptide to determine the best performing agent and to select the framework useful for the preparation of [99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP)]-housing molecular targeting agents. Methods: cRGDfK pentapeptide was conjugated to Cys and labeled with each [Tc(N)(PNP)] framework. Radioconjugates were assessed for their lipophilicity, stability, in vitro and in vivo targeting properties, and performance. Results: All compounds were equally synthetically accessible and easy to purify (RCY ≥ 95%). The main influences of the synthon on the targeting peptide were observed in in vitro cell binding and in vivo. Conclusions: The variation in the substituents on the phosphorus atoms of the PNP enables a fine tuning of the biological features of the radioconjugates. ws[99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP3OH)]– and [99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP3)]– are better performing synthons in terms of labeling efficiency and in vivo performance than the [99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP43)] framework and are therefore more suitable for further radiopharmaceutical purposes. Furthermore, the good labeling properties of the ws[99mTc][Tc(N)(PNP3OH)]– framework can be exploited to extend this technology to the labeling of temperature-sensitive biomolecules suitable for SPECT imaging.
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Bolzati C, Salvarese N, Spolaore B, Vittadini A, Forrer D, Brunello S, Ghiani S, Maiocchi A. Water-Soluble [Tc(N)(PNP)] Moiety for Room-Temperature 99mTc Labeling of Sensitive Target Vectors. Mol Pharm 2022; 19:876-894. [DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.1c00816] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Bolzati
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti, 4, I-35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Nicola Salvarese
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti, 4, I-35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Barbara Spolaore
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo, 5, I-35131 Padova, Italy
- CRIBI Biotechnology Center, University of Padua, 35121 Padova, Italy
| | - Andrea Vittadini
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti, 4, I-35127 Padova, Italy
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo, 1, I-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Daniel Forrer
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti, 4, I-35127 Padova, Italy
- Department of Chemical Sciences, University of Padua, Via Marzolo, 1, I-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Sara Brunello
- Institute of Condensed Matter Chemistry and Technologies for Energy ICMATE-CNR, Corso Stati Uniti, 4, I-35127 Padova, Italy
| | - Simona Ghiani
- Bracco Imaging SpA, Bioindustry Park del Canavese, Via Ribes 5, Colleretto Giacosa, 10010 Torino, Italy
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Ailuno G, Iacobazzi RM, Lopalco A, Baldassari S, Arduino I, Azzariti A, Pastorino S, Caviglioli G, Denora N. The Pharmaceutical Technology Approach on Imaging Innovations from Italian Research. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:1214. [PMID: 34452175 PMCID: PMC8402236 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13081214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Many modern therapeutic approaches are based on precise diagnostic evidence, where imaging procedures play an essential role. To date, in the diagnostic field, a plethora of agents have been investigated to increase the selectivity and sensitivity of diagnosis. However, the most common drawbacks of conventional imaging agents reside in their non-specificity, short imaging time, instability, and toxicity. Moreover, routinely used diagnostic agents have low molecular weights and consequently a rapid clearance and renal excretion, and this represents a limitation if long-lasting imaging analyses are to be conducted. Thus, the development of new agents for in vivo diagnostics requires not only a deep knowledge of the physical principles of the imaging techniques and of the physiopathological aspects of the disease but also of the relative pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical requirements. In this scenario, skills in pharmaceutical technology have become highly indispensable in order to respond to these needs. This review specifically aims to collect examples of newly developed diagnostic agents connoting the importance of an appropriate formulation study for the realization of effective products. Within the context of pharmaceutical technology research in Italy, several groups have developed and patented promising agents for fluorescence and radioactive imaging, the most relevant of which are described hereafter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Ailuno
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (G.A.); (S.B.)
| | - Rosa Maria Iacobazzi
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, O. Flacco St., 70124 Bari, Italy; (R.M.I.); (A.A.)
| | - Antonio Lopalco
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Orabona St. 4, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (I.A.)
| | - Sara Baldassari
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (G.A.); (S.B.)
| | - Ilaria Arduino
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Orabona St. 4, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (I.A.)
| | - Amalia Azzariti
- Laboratory of Experimental Pharmacology, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, O. Flacco St., 70124 Bari, Italy; (R.M.I.); (A.A.)
| | - Sara Pastorino
- Nuclear Medicine Unit, S. Andrea Hospital, via Vittorio Veneto 197, 19124 La Spezia, Italy;
| | - Gabriele Caviglioli
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Genova, Viale Cembrano 4, 16148 Genova, Italy; (G.A.); (S.B.)
| | - Nunzio Denora
- Department of Pharmacy-Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Orabona St. 4, 70125 Bari, Italy; (A.L.); (I.A.)
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Duatti A. Review on 99mTc radiopharmaceuticals with emphasis on new advancements. Nucl Med Biol 2020; 92:202-216. [PMID: 32475681 DOI: 10.1016/j.nucmedbio.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Rapid imaging acquisition, high spatial resolution and sensitivity, powered by advancements in solid-state detector technology, are significantly changing the perspective of single photon emission tomography (SPECT). In particular, this evolutionary step is fueling a rediscovery of technetium-99m, a still unique radionuclide within the nuclear medicine scenario because of its ideal nuclear properties and easy preparation of its radiopharmaceuticals that does not require a costly infrastructure and complex procedures. Scope of this review is to show that the arsenal of technetium-99m radiopharmaceuticals is already equipped with imaging agents that may complement and integrate the role played by analogous tracers developed for positron emission tomography (PET). These include, in particular, somatostatin (SST) and prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) receptor targeting agents, and a number of peptide-derived radiopharmaceuticals. Additionally, these recent technological developments, combined with new myocardial perfusion tracers having more favorable biodistribution and pharmacokinetic properties as compared to current commercial agents, may also reinvigorate the prevailing position still hold by technetium-99m radiopharmaceuticals in nuclear cardiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriano Duatti
- Department of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy.
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