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L-(1-11C)leucine: routine synthesis by enzymatic resolution

Journal Article · · J. Nucl. Med.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5557367

L-(1-11C)leucine, suitable for the determination of cerebral protein synthesis rates in man using positron emission tomography, has been synthesized using a modified Bucherer-Strecker reaction sequence. The isolation of the pure L-amino acid isomer from the enantiomeric mixture, initially obtained using either an open or closed reaction vessel, was achieved using a D-amino acid oxidase/catalase enzyme complex immobilized on a Sepharose support. The O2 required by the D-amino acid oxidase as the hydrogen acceptor was supplied by catalase. The L-(1-11C)leucine was obtained with a radiochemical purity of greater than 99% and with a radiochemical yield of 25%. Using a remote, semiautomated synthesis system, typical production time was 30-40 min after preparation of H11CN. The use of immobilized enzymes for rapid and effective resolution of amino acid enantiomers eliminates the possibility of protein contamination and assures the production of a sterile, pyrogen-free product.

Research Organization:
University of California, Los Angeles
OSTI ID:
5557367
Journal Information:
J. Nucl. Med.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Nucl. Med.; (United States) Vol. 24:6; ISSN JNMEA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English