Positron-Emitting Radiopharmaceuticals

Provide an overview of radionuclides with relevant applications in PET. Define structure-activity relationships and how radiolabeling can induce molecular/biological perturbation. Describe routes of administration and their impact on biodistribution. Describe the impact of molecular size, polarity, and functional groups on distribution. Summarize key issues on handling positron-emitting radionuclides (shielding) and radiochemical synthesis. Explain main advantages and issues regarding 11C-labeled radiopharmaceuticals. Provide basic information on 68Ga-labeled radiopharmaceuticals and the 68Ge/68Ga generator. Provide basic information on the synthesis and use of 124I-labeled radiopharmaceuticals. Provide information on the rationale for using positron-emitting radiopharmaceuticals in different pathophysiologic conditions according to the biologic/metabolic event targeted by different classes of imaging agents.