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Introduction Dysregulated activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) drives a variety of pathophysiological conditions. Non-invasive imaging of MMP activity in vivo promises diagnostic and prognostic value. However, current targeting strategies by small molecules are typically limited with respect to the bioavailability of the labeled MMP binders in vivo. To this end, we here introduce and compare three chemical modifications of a recently developed barbiturate-based radiotracer with respect to bioavailability and potential to image MMP activity in vivo. Methods Barbiturate-based MMP inhibitors with an identical targeting unit but varying hydrophilicity were synthesized, labeled with technetium-99m, and evaluated in vitro and in vivo. Biodistribution and radiotracer elimination were determined in C57/BL6 mice by serial SPECT imaging. MMP activity was imaged in a MMP-positive subcutaneous xenograft model of human K1 papillary thyroid tumors. In vivo data were validated by scintillation counting, autoradiography, and MMP immunohistochemistry. Results We prepared three new 99mTc‐labeled MMP inhibitors, bearing either a glycine ([99mTc]MEA39), lysine ([99mTc]MEA61), or the ligand HYNIC with the ionic co-ligand TPPTS ([99mTc]MEA223) yielding gradually increasing hydrophilicity. [99mTc]MEA39 and [99mTc]MEA61 were rapidly eliminated via hepatobiliary pathways. In contrast, [99mTc]MEA223 showed delayed in vivo clearance and primary renal elimination. In a thyroid tumor xenograft model, only [99mTc]MEA223 exhibited a high tumor-to-blood ratio that could easily be delineated in SPECT images. Conclusion Introduction of HYNIC/TPPTS into the barbiturate lead structure ([99mTc]MEA223) results in delayed renal elimination and allows non-invasive MMP imaging with high signal-to-noise ratios in a papillary thyroid tumor xenograft model.

In this work, a series of γ-substituted diphenylnaphthalonitriles were synthesized and characterized. They show efficient emission in solution and in the aggregated state and their environment responsiveness is based on having variable substituents at the para-position of the two phenyl moieties. The excited state properties were fully investigated in tetrahydrofuran (THF) solutions and in THF/H2O mixtures. The size of the aggregates in aqueous media were measured by dynamic light scattering (DLS). The steady-state and time-resolved photoluminescence spectroscopy studies revealed that all the molecules show intense fluorescence both in solution and in the aggregated state. In THF solutions, a blue emission was observed for the unsubstituted (H), methyl- (Me) and tert-butyl- (t-Bu) substituted γ-diphenylnaphthalonitriles, which can be attributed to a weak π-donor capability of these groups. On the other hand, the methoxy- (OMe), methylsulfanyl- (SMe) and dimethylamino- (NMe2) substituted compounds exhibit a progressive red-shift in emission compared to H, Me and t-Bu due to a growing π-electron donating capability. Interestingly, upon aggregation in water-containing media, H, Me and t-Bu show a slight red-shift of the emission and a blue-shift is observed for OMe, SMe and NMe2. The crystal structure of Me allowed a detailed discussion of the structure–property relationship. Clearly, N-containing substituents such as NMe2 possess more electron-donating ability than the S-based moieties such as SMe. Moreover, it was found that NMe2 showed higher luminescence quantum yields (ΦF) in comparison to SMe, indicating that N-substituted groups could enhance the fluorescence intensity. Therefore, the π-donor nature of the substituents on the phenyl ring constitutes the main parameter that influences the photophysical properties, such as excited state lifetimes and photoluminescence quantum yields. Hence, a series of highly luminescent materials from deep blue to red emission depending on substitution and environment is reported with potential applications in sensing, bioimaging and optoelectronics.

Tyrosine kinase inhibitors have significantly improved treatment of patients with different malignancies, but their utilization can be compromised by unintended toxicities. Ibrutinib is a first-in-class covalent inhibitor of the Bruton´s tyrosine kinase inhibitor that has been approved for the treatment of patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia, mantle cell lymphoma and Waldenstrom's macroglobulinemia and is connected with toxicities, caused by high dosage. To minimize toxicities of ibrutinib we linked ibrutinib to a cell-targeted, internalizing antibody. To this end, we synthesized a poly-anionic derivate of ibrutinib, ibrutinib-Cy3.5 that retains full functionality. This anionic inhibitor is complexed by our anti-CD20-protamine targeting conjugate and free protamine and thereby spontaneously assembles into an electrostatically stabilized vesicular nanocarrier. The complexation led to an accumulation of the drug driven by the CD20 antigen internalization to the intended cells and an amplification of its physiological effectivity. In vivo , we observed a significant enrichment of the drug in xenograft lymphoma tumors in immune-compromised mice and a significantly better response to significantly lower doses compared to the original untargeted drug . This combination of a cell-determining antibody, electrostatically connected to a molecular targeted inhibitor defines a first-in-class antibody-inhibitor conjugate.

Zinc(II)phthalocyanines (Zn(II)Pc) have shown promising applications in photodynamic therapy due to their high quantum yield of singlet oxygen generation; however, optimization of their overall properties are required before their clinical application as photosensitizers (PSs). The photosensitization efficiency of photoprobes is strongly influenced by the nature of the conjugated moieties and often it can be efficiently tuned by variation in the substitution pattern. Through this study we examined how the structural design of amphiphilic carbohydrate-based Zn(II)Pcs affects their photophysical properties, binding affinity to human serum albumin (HSA) and photodynamic activity against human cancer melanoma cells. The replacement of oxygen with sulfur at non-peripheral positions of low-symmetry Zn(II)Pcs contributes to the bathochromic shift of maximum absorption, which is relevant for the activation of the PS in deeper tissues. Moreover, this modification also influences the overall flexibility of the macrocyclic core and results in different behaviour towards HSA. Density functional theory calculations have been carried out to substantiate the effect of the peripheral environment on the photophysical characteristics and geometry of the molecules.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in a spectrum of physiological processes, rendering them attractive targets for small-molecule drug discovery. Strategies to achieve selective inhibiti...

Herein, we present a comparative study about the photoinactivation of Staphylococcus aureus (Gram-positive model) and Escherichia coli (Gram-negative model) employing a neutral and a dicationic axially functionalized SiIV -phthalocyanine. Depending on the charge of the siloxane moiety (neutral monosaccharide or cationic ammonium salt), different interactions with the bacteria were observed, and a differential photoinactivation was facilitated. The intensity of the fluorescence labeling correlated with the photoinactivation of the two types of bacteria: While the neutral species only significantly affected the Gram-positive cells, we observed that the positively charged photosensitizer interacted both with the Gram-positive and with the Gram-negative models. The dicationic photosensitizer labeled both models with a characteristic deep-red fluorescence and photoinactivated both classes of prokaryotes. In general, our study clearly demonstrates that axially ammoniumsiloxane-functionalized Si(IV) phthalocyaninates constitute excellent photosensitizers due to their weak aggregation in aqueous environments. In particular, we also show that charge-based targeting with axial ammonium groups leads toward broad-spectrum SiIV -phthalocyanines for photodynamic inactivation of bacteria.

In this paper we establish a methodology to predict photoacoustic imaging capabilities from the structure of absorber molecules (sonochromes). The comparative in vitro and in vivo screening of naphthalocyanines and cyanine dyes has shown a substitution pattern dependent shift in photoacoustic excitation wavelength, with distal substitution producing the preferred maximum around 800 nm. Central ion change showed variable production of photoacoustic signals, as well as singlet oxygen photoproduction and fluorescence with the optimum for photoacoustic imaging being nickel(II). Our approach paves the way for the design, evaluation and realization of optimized sonochromes as photoacoustic contrast agents. Keywords: Naphthalocyanines, Spectroscopy

Carbohydrate-conjugated silicon(IV) phthalocyanines with bimodal photoactivity were developed as probes with both fluorescent labeling and photosensitizing capabilities, and the concomitant fluorescent labeling and photoinduced inactivation of Gram-positive and Gram-negative models was explored. The maltohexaose-conjugated photoprobe provides a dual readout to distinguish between both groups of pathogens, as only the Gram-positive species was inactivated, even though both appeared labeled with near-infrared luminescence. Antibiotic resistance did not hinder the phototoxic effect, as even the methicillin-resistant pathogen Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) was completely photoinactivated. Time-resolved confocal fluorescence microscopy analysis suggests that the photoprobe sticks onto the outer rim of the microorganisms, explaining the resistance of Gram-negative species on the basis of their membrane constitution. The mannose-conjugated photoprobe yields a different readout because it is able to label and to inactivate only the Gram-positive strain.

The synthesis and photophysical properties of a tailored Pt(II) complex are presented. The phosphorescence of its monomeric species in homogeneous solutions is quenched by interaction with the solvent and therefore absent even upon deoxygenation. However, aggregation-induced shielding from the environment and suppression of rotovibrational degrees of freedom trigger a phosphorescence turn-on that is not suppressed by molecular oxygen, despite possessing an excited-state lifetime ranging in the microsecond scale. Thus, the photoinduced production of reactive oxygen species is avoided by the suppression of diffusion-controlled Dexter-type energy transfer to triplet molecular oxygen. These aggregates emit with the characteristic green luminescence profile of monomeric complexes, indicating that Pt-Pt or excimeric interactions are negligible. Herein, we show that these aggregates can be used to label a model biomolecule (bovine serum albumin) with a microsecond-range luminescence. The protein stabilizes the aggregates, acting as a carrier in aqueous environments. Despite spectral overlaps, the green phosphorescence can be separated by time-gated detection from the dominant autofluorescence of the protein arising from a covalently bound green fluorophore that emits in the nanosecond range. Interestingly, the aggregates also acted as energy donors able to sensitize the emission of a fraction of the fluorophores bound to the protein. This resulted in a microsecond-range luminescence of the fluorescent acceptors and a shortening of the excited-state lifetime of the phosphorescent aggregates. The process that can be traced by a 1000-fold increase in the acceptor's lifetime mirrors the donor's triplet character. The implications for phosphorescence lifetime imaging are discussed. Fil: Delcanale, Pietro. Università di Parma; Italia Fil: Galstyan, Anzhela. Westfalische Wilhelms Universitat; Alemania Fil: Daniliuc, Constantin G.. Westfalische Wilhelms Universitat; Alemania Fil: Grecco, Hernan Edgardo. Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas. Oficina de Coordinación Administrativa Ciudad Universitaria. Instituto de Física de Buenos Aires. Universidad de Buenos Aires. Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales. Instituto de Física de Buenos Aires; Argentina Fil: Abbruzzetti, Stefania. Università di Parma; Italia Fil: Faust, Andreas. Westfalische Wilhelms Universitat; Alemania Fil: Viappiani, Cristiano. Università di Parma; Italia Fil: Strassert, Cristian A.. Westfalische Wilhelms Universitat; Alemania

© 2018 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim Diagnosis and localization of bacterial infections remains a significant clinical challenge. Harnessing bacteria-specific metabolic pathways, such as the maltodextrin transport mechanism, may allow specific localization and imaging of small or hidden colonies. This requires that the intrabacterial tracer accumulation provided by the transporter is matched by high serum stability of the tracer molecule. Herein, radiolabeled maltodextrins of varying chain lengths and with free nonreducing/reducing ends are reported and their behavior against starch-degrading enzymes in the blood, which compromise their serum stability, is evaluated. Successful single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) imaging is shown in a footpad infection model in vivo by using the newly developed model tracer, [99mTc]MB1143, and the signal is compared with that of 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography ([18F]FDG-PET) as a nonbacterial specific marker for inflammation. Although the [99mTc]MB1143 imaging signal is highly specific, it is low, most probably due to insufficient serum stability of the tracer. A series of stability tests with different 18F-labeled maltodextrins finally yielded clear structural guidelines regarding substitution patterns and chain lengths of maltodextrin-based tracers for nuclear imaging of bacterial infections.

Non-invasive assessment of inflammatory activity in the course of various diseases is a largely unmet clinical challenge. An early feature of inflammation is local secretion of the alarmin S100A8/A9 by activated phagocytes. We here evaluate a novel S100A9-targeted small molecule tracer Cy5.5-CES271 for in vivo optical imaging of inflammatory activity in exemplary disease models. Dynamics of Cy5.5-CES271 was characterized in a model of irritant contact dermatitis by sequential fluorescence reflectance imaging (FRI) up to 24 h postinjection (p.i.). Specificity of Cy5.5-CES271 binding to S100A9 in vivo was examined by blocking studies and by employing S100A9−/− mice. Finally, S100A9 secretion in acute lung inflammation was assessed by Cy5.5-CES271 and FRI of explanted lungs. In ear inflammation, we were able to non-invasively follow the time course of S100A9 expression using Cy5.5-CES271 and FRI over 24 h p.i. (peak activity at 3 h p.i.). Specificity of imaging could be shown by a significant signal reduction after predosing and using S100A9−/− mice. In acute lung injury, local and systemic S100A8/A9 levels increased over time and correlated significantly with FRI signal levels in explanted lungs. Cy5.5-CES271 shows significant accumulation in models of inflammatory diseases and specific binding to S100A9 in vivo. This study, for the first time, demonstrates the potential of a small molecule non-peptidic tracer enabling imaging of S100A9 as a marker of local phagocyte activity in inflammatory scenarios suggesting this compound class for translational attempts.

CCR2 and CCR5 receptors play a key role in the development and progression of several inflammatory, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Therefore, dual targeting of both receptors appeals as a promising strategy for the treatment of such complex, multifactorial disorders. Herein we report on the design, synthesis and biological evaluation of benzo[7]annulene- and [7]annulenothiophene-based selective and dual CCR2 and CCR5 receptor antagonists. Intermediates were designed in such a way that diversification could be introduced at the end of the synthesis. Starting from the lead compound TAK-779 (1), the quaternary ammonium moiety was exchanged by different non-charged moieties, the 4-methylphenyl moiety was extensively modified and the benzo[7]annulene core was replaced bioisosterically by the [7]annulenothiophene system. The naphthyl derivative 9h represents the most promising dual antagonist (Ki (CCR2) = 25 nM, IC50 (CCR5) = 17 nM), whereas the 6-isopropoxy-3-pyridyl and 4-methoxycarbonylphenyl derivatives 9k and 9r show more than 20-fold selectivity for the CCR2 (Ki = 19 nM) over the CCR5 receptor.

The establishment of novel molecular imaging tools to monitor the local activity of inflammation remains an interdisciplinary challenge. Our target, the alarmin S100A9, one subunit of the heterodimer S100A8/S100A9 (calprotectin), is locally secreted in high concentrations from immigrated and activated phagocytes at local sites of inflammation. Calprotectin is already a well established serum biomarker for many inflammatory disorders. Here we show the development and first evaluation of the novel S100A9 specific molecular imaging probe for optical imaging of local inflammatory activity in vivo.

© 2017 Elsevier GmbH A novel quantification method named isobaric dilution analysis (IBDA) is introduced for internal calibration using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Unlike isotope dilution analysis (IDA), where a sample to be analysed for a target analyte element is spiked with an isotopically enriched solution of the same element, IBDA uses the fact that conventional mass analysers cannot distinguish between two isobaric isotopes of different elements. Therefore, in IBDA, the sample with the element of interest is spiked with a solution of a different element, which shares at least one isobaric isotope and shows similar chemical properties resulting in a similar response. This method offers a less expensive alternative to conventional IDA especially for long-lived radionuclides of elements for which a spiking element that fulfils the above mentioned requirements can be provided. In addition, IBDA offers the advantage of making certain metastable, sometimes monoisotopic elements accessible to internal calibration using a strategy analogous to IDA. One of the elements accessible by the new calibration strategy is technetium (Tc), which suffers from a lack of standards due to safety requirements associated with its radioactivity. In this work, the principle of IBDA is first demonstrated for a certified gadolinium standard, which was diluted with a dysprosium spike exhibiting an isobaric isotope with m/z 160. The results obtained by IBDA were compared with those obtained by a conventional IDA. The concept of IBDA was subsequently used for the determination of 99Tc in a contrast agent. Since no certified Tc standards are available, the response of 99Tc was interpolated allowing accurate determinations with an uncertainty of 1%.

Introduction The natural occurring vitamin biotin, also known as vitamin H or vitamin B 7 , plays a major role in various metabolic reactions. Caused by its high binding affinity to the protein avidin with a dissociation constant of about 10 - 15 M the biotin-avidin system was extensively examined for multiple applications. We have synthesized a fluorine-18 labeled biotin derivative [ 18 F] 4 for a potential application in positron emission tomography (PET). Methods Mesylate precursor 3 was obtained by an efficient two-step reaction via a copper catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) from easily accessible starting materials. [ 18 F] 4 was successfully synthesized by a nucleophilic radiofluorination of precursor 3 . A biodistribution study by means of small-animal PET imaging in wt-mice was performed and serum stability was examined. Results Compound [ 18 F] 4 was obtained from precursor compound 3 with an average specific activity of 16 GBq/μmol within 45 min and a radiochemical yield of 45 ± 5% (decay corrected). [ 18 F] 4 demonstrated only negligible decomposition in human serum. A qualitative binding study revealed the high affinity of the synthesized biotin derivative to avidin. Blocking experiments with native biotin showed that binding was site-specific. Biodistribution studies showed that [ 18 F] 4 was cleared quickly and efficiently from the body by hepatobiliary and renal elimination. Conclusion An efficient synthesis for [ 18 F] 4 was established. In vivo characteristics were determined and demonstrated the pharmacokinetic behaviour of [ 18 F] 4 .

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are proteolytic enzymes that degrade structural components of the extracellular matrix and participate in pathologies such as cancer and inflammatory disorders. The development of novel contrast agents for optical imaging of MMP activity in vivo is of great interest. The commonly used near-infrared fluorescence-compatible agents are dye-quenched probes that do not emit fluorescence until they interact with MMPs. In contrast, fluorescent synthetic low-molecular-weight MMP inhibitors have not been systematically employed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of our recently developed Cy5.5-labeled MMP inhibitor to image MMP activity in tumors in vivo compared with activatable fluorescent MMP-sensing probes. The dynamic uptake of Cy5.5-AF489 into four different tumor entities was analyzed in xenografted mice by intravenous injection and subsequent fluorescence reflectance imaging. Tumors were characterized in regard to their MMP-2 and −9 mRNA expressions (qRT-PCR analysis), proteins (immunohistochemistry) and gelatinase/collagenase activities (in situ zymography). Cy5.5-AF489 was compared with MMPSenseTM 680 and MMPSenseTM 750 FAST, two commercially available MMP-activatable probes. Cy5.5-AF489 showed a specific tumor uptake, which was blocked by pre-injection of the unlabeled MMPI, and discriminated between tumors with high or low MMP-2/-9 expressions. Our optical probe facilitated faster visualization of MMP-active tumors accompanied by excellent tumor-to-background ratios when compared with activatable probes. The MMP inhibitor Cy5.5-AF489 permits fast in vivo imaging of MMP expression/activity in tumors. Given its small molecular weight and non-peptidic structure, translational imaging from a preclinical application to a diagnostic tool for MMP-related diseases seems feasible. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Radioligands, which specifically bind to a receptor or enzyme (target), enable molecular imaging of the target expression by positron emission tomography (PET). One very promising PET tracer is (S)-1-(4-(2-[(18)F]-fluoroethoxy)benzyl)-5-[1-(2-methoxymethylpyrrolidinyl)sulfonyl]isatin (isatin), a caspase-3 inhibitor, which has been developed at the University Hospital of Münster to image cell death (apoptosis). The translation of this novel tracer from preclinical evaluation to clinical examinations requires biodistribution studies, which characterize the pharmakodynamics and metabolic fate of the compound. This information is used to further optimize the radioligands and to interpret radioactive signals from tissues upon injection of the radioligand in vivo with respect to their specificity. The analysis of the metabolism of radioligands is hampered by the low amount of the compound being typically injected (nano/picomolar amount per injection). In the present study, electrochemistry (EC) is applied to elucidate the oxidative metabolism pathway of the radiotracer. Previous studies have demonstrated that EC can be utilized as a complementary tool to conventional in vitro approaches in drug metabolism studies. Thereby, potential oxidative metabolites of the isatin are determined by EC coupled to electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (EC/ESI-MS). Moreover, using EC/liquid chromatography (LC) and ESI-ion trap MS(n), structural elucidation of the oxidation products is performed. Comparatively to EC, in vitro metabolism studies with rat liver microsomes are conducted. Finally, the developed LC/ESI-MS method is applied to determine metabolites in body fluids and cell extracts from in vivo studies with the nonradioactive ((19)F) and radioactive isatin ((18)F). On the basis of the electrochemically generated oxidation products of the radioligand, the major radioactive metabolite occurring in vivo was successfully identified.

The expression and function of endothelin (ET) receptors is abnormal in cardiovascular diseases, tumor progression, and tumor metastasis. In this study, we prepared two [(18)F]-fluorinated derivatives of the non-peptide ET(A) receptor antagonist PD 156707 and evaluated their ET receptor binding potencies. Ex vivo as well as in vivo biodistribution studies in mice were performed, as well as the metabolism of the radiotracer, which was examined by metabolite analysis in mice and rats. All tested derivatives of PD 156707 exhibited potent in vitro pharmacological characteristics with K(i) values comparable to that of the lead compound. The biodistribution studies showed a high accumulation of the tracer in bile and intestine. In vivo we were able to show that the visualization of the heart as a major target organ with high ET(A)R expression is possible.

When transition-metal-catalyzed transformations fail, the aminationreaction of activated bromo- and chloropyridines can be achievedthermally. The auxiliary base 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine turnedout to be the key for the conversion of highly sterically demandingand acid labile amines.

Parkinson's disease is a slowly progressing neurodegenerative disorder caused by loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN), leading to severe impairment in motor and non-motor functions. Endogenous subventricular zone (SVZ) neural stem cells constantly give birth to new cells that might serve as a possible source for regeneration in the adult brain. However, neurodegeneration is accompanied by neuroinflammation and dopamine depletion, potentially compromising regeneration. We therefore employed in vivo imaging methods to study striatal deafferentation (N-ω-fluoropropyl-2β-carbomethoxy-3β-(4-[(123) I]iodophenyl)nortropane single photon emission computed tomography, DaTscan(™) ) and neuroinflammation in the SN and striatum (N,N-diethyl-2-(2-(4-(2-[(18) F]fluoroethoxy)phenyl)-5,7-dimethylpyrazolo[1,5-a]pyrimidin-3-yl)acetamide positron emission tomography, [(18) F]DPA-714 PET) in the intranigral 6-hydroxydopamine Parkinson's disease mouse model. Additionally, we transduced cells in the SVZ with a lentivirus encoding firefly luciferase and followed migration of progenitor cells in the SVZ-olfactory bulb axis via bioluminescence imaging under disease and control conditions. We found that activation of microglia in the SN is an acute process accompanying the degeneration of dopaminergic cell bodies in the SN. Dopaminergic deafferentation of the striatum does not influence the generation of doublecortin-positive neuroblasts in the SVZ, but generates chronic astrogliosis in the nigrostriatal system.

The programmed type I cell death, defined as apoptosis, is induced by complex regulated signaling pathways that trigger the intracellular activation of executioner caspases-3, -6 and -7. Once activated, these enzymes initiate cellular death through cleavage of proteins which are responsible for DNA repair, signaling and cell maintenance. Several radiofluorinated inhibitors of caspases-3 and -7, comprising a moderate lipophilic 5-(1-pyrrolidinylsulfonyl)isatin lead structure, are currently being investigated for imaging apoptosis in vivo by us and others. The purpose of this study was to increase the intrinsic hydrophilicity of the aforementioned lead structure to alter the pharmacokinetic behavior of the resulting caspase-3 and -7 targeted radiotracer. Therefore, fluorinated and non-fluorinated derivatives of 5-(1-pyrrolidinylsulfonyl)-7-azaisatin were synthesized and tested for their inhibitory properties against recombinant caspases-3 and -7. Fluorine-18 has been introduced by copper(I)-catalyzed azide-alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC) of an alkyne precursor with 2-[(18)F]fluoroethylazide. Using dynamic micro-PET biodistribution studies in vivo the kinetic behavior of one promising PET-compatible 5-pyrrolidinylsulfonyl 7-azaisatin derivative has been compared to a previously described isatin based radiotracer.

Caspases are the unique enzymes responsible for the execution of the cell death program and may represent an exclusive target for the specific molecular imaging of apoptosis in vivo. 5-Pyrrolidinylsulfonyl isatins represent potent nonpeptidyl caspase inhibitors that may be suitable for the development of caspase binding radioligands (CBRs). (S)-5-[1-(2-Methoxymethylpyrrolidinyl)sulfonyl]isatin (7) served as a lead compound for modification of its N-1-position. Corresponding pairs of N-1-substituted 2-methoxymethyl- and 2-phenoxymethylpyrrolidinyl derivatives were examined in vitro by biochemical caspase inhibition assays. All target compounds possess high in vitro caspase inhibition potencies in the nanomolar to subnanomolar range for caspase-3 (Ki=0.2-56.1 nM). As shown for compound (S)-1-(4-(2-fluoroethoxy)benzyl)-5-[1-(2-methoxymethylpyrrolidinyl)sulfonyl]isatin (35), the class of N-1-substituted 5-pyrrolidinylsulfonyl isatins competitively inhibits caspase-3. All caspase inhibitors show selectivity for the effector caspases-3 and -7 in vitro. The 2-methoxymethylpyrrolidinyl versions of the isatins appear to possess superior caspase inhibition potencies in cellular apoptosis inhibition assays compared with the 2-phenoxymethylpyrrolidinyl inhibitors.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a family of zinc- and calcium-dependent secreted or membrane anchored endopeptidases. MMPs are involved in many physiological processes but also take part in the pathophysiological mechanisms responsible for a wide range of diseases. Pathological expression and activation of MMPs are associated with cancer, atherosclerosis, stroke, arthritis, periodontal disease, multiple sclerosis and liver fibrosis. Thus, noninvasive visualisation and quantification of MMP activity in vivo are of great interest in basic research and clinical application. This can be achieved by scintigraphic molecular imaging techniques such as single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and positron emission tomography (PET) provided suitable radiolabelled tracers exist, e.g. radioactive inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPIs). The approach to monitor MMP activity in vivo using radiolabelled small molecule inhibitors suitable for SPECT and PET is summarised in this review. Briefly, latest advances in scintigraphic imaging are introduced and followed by a report about the enzyme class of MMPs. The involvement of MMPs in cancer and atherosclerosis is exemplified and small molecule MMPIs are classified. Subsequently, the development of radiolabelled small molecule MMPIs, their synthesis and in vitro and in vivo evaluation is reviewed. Finally, an outlook on the clinical potential of labelled MMPIs in diagnostic algorithms is given.

To date, some non-selective β-adrenoceptor (β-AR) positron emission tomography (PET) radioligands are in clinical use, but no PET radioligand for the selective imaging of cardiac β1-ARs is clinically available. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a potential high-affinity PET radioligand for the β1-subtype of ARs. Here, the synthesis and in vitro evaluation of (S)- and (R)-N-[2-[3-(2-cyano-phenoxy)-2-hydroxy-propylamino]-ethyl]-N′-[4-(2-fluoro-ethoxy)-phenyl]-urea (8a–b), derivatives of the well-characterized β1-AR selective antagonist, ICI 89,406, are described. The (S)-isomer 8a shows both higher β1-AR selectivity and β1-AR affinity than the (R)-enantiomer 8b (selectivity: 40 800 vs 1580; affinity: KI1=0.049 nM vsKI1=0.297 nM). Therefore, the 18F-labelled analogue 8e of compound 8a was synthesized. While the direct nucleophilic 18F-fluorination of the tosylate precursor 8d produced 8e in low radiochemical yields (⩽2.9% decay-corrected) and specific activities (⩽3.5 GBq/µmol at the end of synthesis (EOS), n=9) the alternative two-step synthesis of 8e from ethylene glycol di-p-tosylate 9, [18F]fluoride ion and phenol precursor 8f gave satisfying results (16.4±3.2% radiochemical yield (decay-corrected), 99.7±0.5% radiochemical purity, 40±8 GBq/µmol specific activity at the EOS within 174±3 min from the end of bombardment (EOB) (n=5)). Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Recently, the spectrum of molecular imaging devices such as positron emission tomography (PET) was further expanded by the now clinically available combined imaging modalities such as PET-CT and the preclinically used small animal PET scanners. These are powerful tools that can bridge the gap between preclinical and clinical evaluation studies of new radiotracers for molecular imaging of healthy and diseased states in vivo. The beta-adrenoceptor (beta-AR) radioligands discussed in this review represent a class of molecular probes for the non-invasive in vivo assessment of beta-AR density eg. in the heart with PET. The beta-AR radioligands (S)-[11C]CGP 12177 (1) or (S)-[11C]CGP 12388 (2) are currently investigated in clinical studies with PET. Additionally, subtype-selective beta1-AR radioligands are used in preclinical research which show potential for the diagnostics of the "beta1-AR organ" as such the heart can be defined. Non-invasive quantification of beta-ARs could facilitate the accurate choice and control of therapeutic interventions. Here we summarize the state-of-the-art of the radiochemistry of radioactive beta-AR radioligands.

The synthesis of rigid receptors based on triphenylene ketals, including some improved procedures, is described in detail. Since chemical transformations are strongly influenced by the rigid character and steric bulkiness of the receptors, the construction of a subunit allowing quicker synthetic development is also reported. The preparation of these receptor structures involves an oxidative trimerization and a subsequent repeated isomerization procedure. The scope for the attachment of sterically demanding affinity groups on the receptor scaffold and the corresponding subunit is discussed, and the molecular structures and available space for molecular recognition of the chirally modified systems are outlined by some crystal structures. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2005)

Studies have demonstrated a positive correlation between inflammation, metastasis, or atherosclerosis and the unbalanced or culminated expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). The molecular imaging of locally upregulated MMP activity in vivo is a clinical challenge. Actually, radioligands based on nonpeptidyl MMP inhibitors (MMPIs) are currently in development as putative radiopharmaceutical agents for the noninvasive in vivo assessment of activated MMPs. Nonpeptidyl MMPIs bind to the zinc active site of the activated enzyme via mono- (e.g. carboxylate) or bidentate (e.g. hydroxamate) complexation thereby exhibiting a broad-spectrum MMP binding potency. Thus, these mentioned endopeptidase inhibitors should be useable lead compounds for the redevelopment as diagnostic MMPI radiotracers. Recently, the non-hydroxamate C-5-disubstituted pyrimidine-2,4,6-triones were disclosed as subgroup-selective MMP inhibitors. We here describe a set of fine-tuned barbiturates as a new class of MMPI radiotracers for the noninvasive in vivo visualization of activated MMPs using scintigraphic techniques such as SPECT or PET.

Molecular imaging and quantification of myocardial β1-adrenoceptor (AR) rather than total β-AR density is of great clinical interest since cardiac biopsy studies suggest that myocardial β1-AR density is reduced in patients with chronic heart failure whereas cardiac β2-AR density may vary. Positron emission tomography (PET), with appropriate radioligands, offers the possibility to assess β-AR density non-invasively in humans. However, no PET radioligand for the selective imaging of cardiac β1-ARs is clinically available. Here some derivatives of the well characterized β1-AR selective antagonist, ICI 89,406, namely the enantiomers of N-[2-[3-(2-cyano-phenoxy)-2-hydroxy-propylamino]-ethyl]-N′-(4-hydroxy-phenyl)-urea (5a and 5b) were synthesized and evaluated in vitro. The (R)-isomer 5a was more β1-selective but has lower affinity than its (S)-enantiomer 5b (β1-AR selectivity: 6100 vs 1240; β1-affinity: K1 = 0.288 nM vs K1 = 0.067 nM). Etherification of the analogous desmethyl precursors, 5e and 5f, respectively, with [11C]iodomethane gave 11C-labelled versions of 5a and 5b, namely 5g and 5h, in 44 ± 5% radiochemical yield (decay-corrected) and 97.4 ± 1.3% radiochemical purity with specific radioactivities of 26.4 ± 9.4 GBq/µmol within 41.2 ± 3.4 min from the end of bombardment (n = 14). 5g and 5h are now being evaluated as candidate radioligands for myocardial β1-ARs. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

A variety of new analogues of the potent and selective CCRS receptor antagonist TAK-779 with increased oral bioavailability are synthesized.

Chemokine receptor 5 (CCR5) antagonists provide a new therapeutic approach in the treatment of HIV-1 (AIDS). TAK-779 displays high affinity and selectivity for the CCR5 receptor and serves as a lead compound for the development of further antagonists. In order to increase the oral bioavailability replacement of the quaternary ammonium structure by a tertiary amine and modification of the 4-methylphenyl moiety were envisaged. Herein, a new synthetic strategy for the development of TAK-779 analogs by late stage diversification is reported. The Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions allowed various modifications of the central amide building block 3 at the end of the synthesis leading to compounds 2f and 2h with a promising CCR5 binding affinity.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play a critical role in various pathological conditions including cutaneous inflammation. Thus far, serial assessment of MMP activity in ongoing inflammation is hampered due to technical limitations. Here, we present an innovative method for longitudinal detection of MMP activity by in vivo imaging. First, we analysed skin sections from patients suffering from leucocytoclastic vasculitis (LcV) and detected a significant MMP signal via immunofluorescence staining. Then, we mimicked LcV in mice in a well-studied model of immune complex-mediated vasculitis (ICV). This acute inflammatory process was serially visualized in vivo using the fluorescence-labelled MMP tracer Cy5.5-AF443. The deposition of fluorescence-labelled immune complexes and MMP tracer distribution was visualized repeatedly and non-invasively by fluorescence reflectance imaging. In correlation with the presence of MMP-2 and MMP-9 in immunofluorescence stainings, Cy5.5-AF443 accumulated in ICV spots in the skin of C57BL/6 mice. This tracer accumulation could also be observed in mice equipped with a dorsal skinfold chamber, where microscopic observations revealed an increased recruitment of fluorescence-labelled leucocytes during ICV. The specificity of the MMP tracer was supported by (i) analysis of mice deficient in functional β2 -integrins (CD18(-/-) ) and (ii) subsequent MMP immunofluorescence staining. These findings let us conclude that MMP accumulation in the acute phase of ICV depends on β2 -mediated leucocyte recruitment. In summary, we show that MMPs are involved in ICV as determined by Cy5.5-AF443, a new optical marker to longitudinally and non-invasively follow MMP activity in acute skin inflammation in vivo.

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are zinc- and calcium-dependent endopeptidases. Representing a subfamily of the metzincin superfamily, MMPs are involved in the proteolytic degradation of components of the extracellular matrix. Unregulated MMP expression, MMP dysregulation and locally increased MMP activity are common features of various diseases, such as cancer, atherosclerosis, stroke, arthritis, and others. Therefore, activated MMPs are suitable biological targets for the specific visualization of such pathologies, in particular by using radiolabeled MMP inhibitors (MMPIs). The aim of this work was to develop a radiofluorinated molecular probe for noninvasive in vivo imaging for the detection of up-regulated levels of activated MMPs in the living organism. Fluorinated MMPIs (26, 31 and 38) based on the pyrimidine-2,4,6-trione lead structure RO 28-2653 (1) were synthesized, and their MMP inhibition potency was evaluated in vitro. The radiosynthesis and the in vivo biodistribution of the first (18)F-labeled prototype, MMP-targeted tracer [(18)F]26, suitable for molecular imaging by means of positron emission tomography (PET) were realized.

The balance between proliferation and programmed cell death – apoptosis – is essential for multicellular organisms which use apoptosis to regulate and maintain the number and type of their cells during embryogenesis, growth and homeostasis. Increased cell proliferation or enhanced cell loss can be caused by dysregulated apoptosis and are observed in various diseases: in clinical scenarios such as neurodegenerative disorders, myocardial infarction and stroke the rate of apoptosis is upregulated compared to the physiological situation, while in clinical scenarios such as cancer or autoimmune diseases which are connected with pathological proliferation, apoptosis is often downregulated. Therefore, non-invasive imaging of apoptosis is of great clinical interest as patients would clearly benefit from the diagnosis of cell loss post infarction or from monitoring apoptosis triggered by chemotherapy or radiation therapy of tumours. Several biochemical transformations occur in apoptotic cells offering different biological targets for the development of specific molecular biomarkers of apoptosis. Key steps that occur during apoptosis have already been evaluated; among these are the externalisation of phospholipid phosphatidylserine to the outer leaflet of the cell membrane, which can be visualized by labeled annexin A5 and the activation of caspases, especially effector caspase-3, which can be addressed by labeled enzyme substrates or synthetic caspase inhibitors. Here, recent advances in tracer development for the molecular imaging techniques PET, SPECT and optical imaging are presented, the discussion of breakthroughs is involved, drawbacks and methodological issues of apoptosis imaging are highlighted.

Caspases are responsible for the execution of the cell death program and are potentially suitable targets for the specific imaging of apoptosis in vivo. A series of N-1-substituted analogues of the small molecule nonpeptide caspase inhibitor (S)-5-[1-(2-methoxymethylpyrrolidinyl)sulfonyl]isatin (1), which may be useful for the development of caspase-targeted radioligands, were synthesized and their inhibition potencies were evaluated in vitro. Two of the most powerful techniques to introduce fluorine into organic compounds, viz, bromofluorination of olefins and fluorohydrin synthesis by ring-opening of epoxides, were used. Most of the target compounds are potent inhibitors of the two effector caspases-3 and -7. Furthermore, the (18)F-radiolabeled model compound (S)-1-[4-(1-[(18)F]fluoro-2-hydroxyethyl)benzyl]-5-[1-(2-methoxymethyl-pyrrolidinyl)sulfonyl]isatin ([(18)F]37), a putative tracer for the noninvasive imaging of apoptosis by positron emission tomography (PET) was synthesized by nucleophilic epoxide ring-opening of its precursor 36. The radiochemistry utilized in the (18)F-fluorination reverted to carrier-added [(18)F]Et(3)N.3HF, a new fluorine-18 source for radiolabeling.

A series of new N-substituted (S)-5-[1-(2-methoxymethylpyrrolidinyl)sulfonyl]isatin derivatives has been synthesized and tested as inhibitors of caspases-3 and -7, which are known to be downstream enzymes critical in the execution of apoptosis. N-Propyl- and N-butyl isatins, as well as the corresponding terminal alcohols and regioisomeric fluorobutyl derivatives were shown to be excellent inhibitors having different binding potencies for caspases-3 and -7. In contrast, the corresponding fluoroethyl and fluoropropyl compounds were about 100-1000 times less active. Fluorinated N-benzyl isatins as well as trifluoroalkyl and difluoroalkyl derivatives were moderate inhibitors. However, isatins bearing different alkylether groups at N-1 are very weak or not active as inhibitors of caspases-3 and -7.

An approach to the in vivo imaging of locally upregulated and activated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) found in many pathological processes is offered by positron emission tomography (PET). Hence, appropriate PET radioligands for MMP imaging are required. Here, we describe the syntheses of novel fluorinated MMP inhibitors (MMPIs) based on lead structures of the broad-spectrum inhibitors N-hydroxy-2(R)-[[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl](benzyl)-amino]-3-methyl-butanamide (CGS 25966) and N-hydroxy-2(R)-[[(4-methoxyphenyl)sulfonyl](3-picolyl)-amino]-3-methyl-butanamide (CGS 27023A). Additionally, tailor-made precursor compounds for radiolabeling with the positron-emitter 18F were synthesized. All prepared hydroxamate target compounds showed high in vitro MMP inhibition potencies for MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9, and MMP-13. As a consequence, the promising fluorinated hydroxamic acid derivative 1f was resynthesized in its 18F-labeled version via two different procedures yielding the potential PET radioligand [18F]1f. As expected, the biodistribution behavior of this novel compound and that of the more hydrophilic variant [18F]1j, also developed by our group, indicates that there was no tissue specific accumulation in wild-type (WT) mice.