Production, Quality Control and Imaging of 64Cu-ATSM in Healthy Rabbits for Clinical Applications

Introduction: [64Cu]diacetyl-bis(N4-methylthiosemicarbazone) ([64Cu]ATSM) is a well-established hypoxia imaging tracer with reproducible production and significant specifity. In this work the high yield production and quality control as well as imaging studies in healthy rabbits is reported. Methods: Copper-64 produced via the 68Zn(p,?n)64Cu nuclear reaction (30 MeV protons at 180 ?A) was used for the preparation of [64Cu]diacetyl-bis(N4-methylthiosemicarbazone)([64Cu]ATSM). Followed by quality control and administration to healthy rats as well as healthy rabbits for biodistribution and imaging studies respectively. Results: 64Cu2+ (500 mCi, separation yield > 95%, radionuclide purity > 96%) was used for [64Cu]ATSM production (radiochemical purity > 99%, specific activity of 300 Ci/mmol) followed by administration to healthy rabbits and coincidence imaging demonstrating uptake in liver, kidney and bowel as shown by other reports in various rodents and human. Conclusion: [64Cu]ATSM radiopharmaceutical is produced and now available in large quantities for research and/or clinical trials in the country.