Automated synthesis of [18F]DCFPyL via direct radiofluorination and validation in preclinical prostate cancer models

Abstract

[(18)F]DCFPyL can be prepared for clinical applications simply and in good radiochemical yields via a direct radiofluorination synthesis route in a single reactor automated synthesis unit. Radiopharmacological evaluation of [(18)F]DCFPyL confirmed high PSMA-mediated tumor uptake combined with superior clearance parameters. Compartmental model analysis points to a two-step molecular trapping mechanism based on PSMA binding and subsequent internalization leading to retention of radioactivity in PSMA+ LNCaP tumors.