Seung-Dae Yang

Synthesis and characterization of a 68Ga-labeled N-(2-diethylaminoethyl)benzamide derivative as potential PET Probe for malignant melanoma

Radiolabeled benzamides have been reported to be attractive agents for targeting malignant melanoma as they bind melanin and display high accumulation in melanoma cells. Herein, we report the synthesis and bioevaluation of a novel (68)Ga-labeled benzamide as a potential PET agent for malignant melanoma. The novel radiotracer was synthesized in good radiochemical yields (80% decay corrected yield) and high specific radioactivity (10 GBq/μmol). Cellular uptake of (68)Ga-SCN-NOTA-BZA was significantly higher in B16F10 cells (mouse melanoma) treated with L-tyrosine. Biodistribution and micro-PET studies of (68)Ga-SCN-NOTA-BZA in B16F10-bearing mice showed selective uptake into the tumor. The radiotracer was cleared via renal excretion without further metabolism. These results demonstrate that (68)Ga-SCN-NOTA-BZA is a potential PET probe for malignant melanoma.

Synthesis and evaluation of a novel 68Ga-labeled DOTA-benzamide derivative for malignant melanoma imaging

Malignant melanoma displays a highly aggressive metastasis. Thus, early diagnosis of malignant melanoma is important for patient survival. We designed and synthesized a novel (68)Ga-labeled benzamide derivative that specifically binds to melanoma as demonstrated by its ability to bind to melanin. (68)Ga-SCN-DOTA-PCA was synthesized with a radiochemical yield of ~80% and a radiochemical purity of >97% by analytical HPLC. The in vitro binding of (68)Ga-SCN-DOTA-PCA to melanin and its cellular uptake demonstrated the selective uptake in melanin. In addition, the biodistribution and micro-PET imaging of (68)Ga-SCN-DOTA-PCA in B16F10 tumor models showed the specific accumulation in melanoma. These results suggest that (68)Ga-SCN-DOTA-PCA would be a promising agent for melanoma diagnosis.