Polymer-supported reagents utilized in the synthesis of radiopharmaceuticals

Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) is a medical imaging technique which provides three-dimensional images of living systems after infusion of radiolabeled chemical compounds. These radiolabeled pharmaceuticals must be synthesized and delivered to the patient quickly to ensure that loss of the radiolabel is minimal. This means that the synthesis and handling of the imaging agent should be efficient and as simple as possible. Current methods of radioiodination involve lengthy purification techniques usually via column chromatography. The use of polymer supported hydrides for radioiodinations could eliminate the need for such purifications by making possible the removal of polymer-bound by-products by simple filtration.