Electron attachment to fluorodeoxyglucose: Dissociation dynamics in a molecule of near-zero electron affinity

J Chem Phys. 2022 Aug 21;157(7):074301. doi: 10.1063/5.0101726.

Abstract

Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) is a glucose derivative with fluorine at the C2 position. The molecule containing the radioactive F-18 isotope is well known from its application in positron emission tomography as a radiotracer in tumor examination. In the stable form with the F-19 isotope, FDG was proposed as a potential radiosensitizer. Since reduction processes may be relevant in radiosensitization, we investigated low-energy electron attachment to FDG with a crossed electron-molecule beam experiment and with quantum chemical calculations as well as molecular dynamics at elevated temperatures to reveal statistical dissociation. We experimentally find that the susceptibility of FDG to low-energy electrons is relatively low. The calculations indicate that upon attachment of an electron with a kinetic energy of ∼0 eV, only dipole-bound states are accessible, which agrees with the weak ion yields observed in the experiment. The temporary negative ions formed upon electron attachment to FDG may decay by a large variety of dissociation reactions. The major fragmentation channels include H2O, HF, and H2 dissociation, accompanied by ring opening.

MeSH terms

  • Electrons*
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18
  • Ions
  • Radiation-Sensitizing Agents* / chemistry

Substances

  • Ions
  • Radiation-Sensitizing Agents
  • Fluorodeoxyglucose F18