Radiochemistry Services
The Radiochemistry center operates a cyclotron and a state-of-the-art radiochemistry laboratory to produce a wide variety of PET imaging tracers, and has access to additional compounds used in clinical practice and trials at UCLA via collaboration with the Ahmanson Translational Theranostics Division.
Though our primary focus is on 18F-labeled radiopharmaceuticals for PET imaging, we also work with other PET isotopes (64Cu, 68Ga, 124I, 89Zr) and therapeutic isotopes (177Lu) and have experience labeling peptides, proteins, and nanoparticles.
By leveraging cutting-edge radiosynthesis technologies, we are able to offer a wide range of tracers on a per-batch basis. Generally, production must be requested at least 2 weeks in advance to allow sufficient time for ordering any needed materials and for coordinating any associated imaging studies, as applicable.
Standard analytical test results are available with all batches (e.g. radiochemical identity and purity). Please contact us if specialized tests (e.g. molar activity) are needed.
Available PET Tracers
The Radiochemistry Center is fully-equipped for production of 18F-labeled tracers. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies for PET tracer production, we are able to offer a wide range of tracers. Generally, production must be requested at least 2 weeks in advance to allow sufficient time for ordering any needed materials and for coordinating any associated imaging studies, if applicable.
Protein, Peptide and Nanoparticle Labeling
We can perform random and site-specific 18F labeling of appropriately functionalized peptides, proteins or particles via the following prosthetic groups:
- 18F-SFB
- 18F-FNB
- 18F-fluorobenzaldehyde (18F-FBA)
- 18F-FBEM
- 18F-PEG-3-azide
We can also perform labeling of molecules and nanoparticles conjugated to appropriate chelators with additional isotopes:
- 68Ga
- 64Cu
- 89Zr
- 177Lu
Other Tracers
If your imaging requires other PET tracers (not listed above) that have been described in literature, we provide services for bringing new tracers online at UCLA. We have a strong record of adapting literature protocols onto our synthesizer modules. Please contact us for estimates of cost and timeframe.
We have access to unique technologies for synthesis development and optimization. For example, we have developed techniques and instruments for high-throughput radiosynthesis and analysis that require a minimal amount of reagents per data point. We can help to perform comprehensive evaluations of the reaction parameter space to help optimize challenging syntheses. Please contact us for additional information.
We can also help to automate a manual radiosynthesis protocol using conventional or microfluidic synthesizer platforms. Please contact us for more details.
In addition to the production of established probes, we can help you to develop novel probes, starting from design of precursor and synthetic route, to synthesis optimization and automation for routine production.
Please contact us to set up a time to discuss your objectives.
We are experienced in performing analysis of radio-metabolites in plasma or other tissues using radio-HPLC or high-resolution (and high-throughput) radio-TLC. Please contact us for more information.
