Preparation of [64Cu] Pyruvaldehyde-bis (N4-methylthiosemicarbazone) complex as a PET and/or therapeutic radiopharmaceutical

Background: Copper-64 (T1/2=12.7 h) is an important radionuclide used both in PET imaging and therapy. [64Cu]-pyruvaldehyde-bis (N4-methylthiosemicarbazone) ([64Cu]-PTSM) is one of the most famous copper radiopharmaceuticals with unique specifications (suitable half life, stability, etc.). The wide range of 64Cu applications arouse great interest for its production. Materials and Methods: Cu-64 was produced via the 68Zn (p, α n) 64Cu nuclear reaction and isolated from the irradiated target by a two-step chemical method. [64Cu]-PTSM was prepared using in-house made PTSM ligand and [64Cu] cuprous acetate. The complex formation parameter s (time, temperature, concentration and elution methods) were determined carefully. Results: Copper-64 was prepared in chloride form (≈200 mCi, >95% chemical yield at 180 μA for 1.1 h irradiation, radionuclidic purity >96%, copper-67 as impurity). The solution of 64Cu-PTSM was prepared in >80% radiochemical yield and more than 98% radiochemical purity. Quality controls and stability tests were performed for the final solution. Conclusion: [64Cu]-PTSM was prepared at the radiopharmaceutical scales with high quality and potential to be used in therapeutic/imaging centers. Iran . J. Radiat. Res., 2004 2 (3): 107-115