Visualizing Kinetically Robust CoIII4L6 Assemblies in Vivo: SPECT Imaging of the Encapsulated [99mTc]TcO4- Anion

J Am Chem Soc. 2018 Dec 12;140(49):16877-16881. doi: 10.1021/jacs.8b09582. Epub 2018 Dec 3.

Abstract

Noncovalent encapsulation is an attractive approach for modifying the efficacy and physiochemical properties of both therapeutic and diagnostic species. Abiotic self-assembled constructs have shown promise, yet many hurdles between in vitro and (pre)clinical studies remain, not least the challenges associated with maintaining the macromolecular, hollow structure under nonequilibrium conditions. Using a kinetically robust CoIII4L6 tetrahedron we now show the feasibility of encapsulating the most widely used precursor in clinical nuclear diagnostic imaging, the γ-emitting [99mTc]TcO4- anion, under conditions compatible with in vivo administration. Subsequent single-photon emission computed tomography imaging of the caged-anion reveals a marked change in the biodistribution compared to the thyroid-accumulating free oxo-anion, thus moving clinical applications of (metallo)supramolecular species a step closer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't