New Methodologies for Radiofluorination
Theme 4
A crucial area of research for advancing and maximising radiochemical imaging techniques is the development of new PET and SPECT chemical tracers. In this regard, fluorine-18 (F-18) has become a key and often used radionuclide in PET imaging due to its half-life and high positron-emission yield properties. Traditional synthetic methods for the preparation of molecules containing the F-18 isotope typically exploit the nucleophilic substitution mode of reactivity presented by the F-18 fluoride anion. For the full potential of F-18-based imaging agents to be realised, there is a growing need to expand the range of such compounds through the development of new designs and synthetic methods for their assembly.
This research theme explores the development of several innovative approaches to address this challenge. It will focus on the creation of new synthetic methods that can incorporate the F-18 isotope into small molecules through the realisation of new modes of reactivity. It will also reveal new catalytic technology that can mediate late-stage fluorination reactions and significantly enhance the value of existing compounds by improving their utility as imaging agents. The focus will be on developing cost-effective synthetic procedures that are fast with high radiochemical yields and purity.
Theme Leaders
Prof. Philip Chan
Prof. Philip Chan
Professional Background:
Professor Philip Chan is the Associate Head (Postgraduate Research) at the School of Chemistry, Monash University and “New Methodologies for Radiofluorination” theme leader of the ARC Development of Advanced Radiochemical Technologies (DART) Industrial Transformation Training Centre. Since graduating with his D.Phil. degree from the University of Oxford, Philip has developed over 115 new catalytic methods for the concise and efficient synthesis of complex molecules and their applications in other fields ranging from medicine to materials science. He has been well supported by ARC Discovery Project grants and maintains several ongoing and highly productive collaborations with various and academic and industry partners.
Research Interests:
The Chan Lab is focused on the discovery and understanding of new and sustainable reactions through the power of homogeneous catalysis and their application to the synthesis of bioactive compounds and functional materials. To achieve these aims, research in the group is centred on the three main areas of organocatalysis, and transition metal and photoredox catalysis. Included in this is the design and realisation of new synthetic methods that can selectively radiolabel peptides and peptidomimetics as well as bioconjugation and targeting strategies.
Dr. Nigel Lengkeek
Dr. Nigel Lengkeek
Professional Background:
Dr Nigel Lengkeek is the Principal Radiochemist in the Department of Nuclear at Liverpool Hospital and the Manager of the Liverpool Hospital Cyclotron Facility, ensuring the reliable daily manufacturing of routine clinical radiopharmaceuticals and supporting theranostic clinical trials and research. Nigel completed his PhD at UWA, moving to ANSTO in 2010. During his 13 years at ANSTO he worked on a broad range of projects covering radiopharmaceutical discovery and development, radioisotope generators, radioactive medical devices and radiopharmaceutical translation, while managing a team of scientists and professional staff, and research facilities.
Research Interests:
The Liverpool Hospital Cyclotron Facility’s core capabilities are the development, scale-up, automation and validation of PET radiopharmaceuticals, particularly with F-18. Establishing radiopharmaceutical products to meet patient need and manufacturing demands are a particular focus. DART Centre projects will be focused on the LHCF’s core capabilities to manufacture new F-18 and Ga-68 radiopharmaceuticals, and manufacturing technologies.
