Radiosynthesis and in vivo evaluation of [11C]-labelled pyrrole-2-carboxamide derivates as novel radioligands for PET imaging of monoamine oxidase A

Abstract Introduction Since MAO-A is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters, fluctuations in MAO-A functionality are associated with psychiatric and neurological disorders as well as with tobacco addiction and behaviour. This study reports the radiolabelling of two [ 11 C]-labelled pyrrole-2-carboxamide derivates, RS 2315 and RS 2360, along with the characterization of their in vivo properties. Methods The radiolabelling of [ 11 C]-RS 2315 and [ 11 C]-RS 2360 was accomplished by alkylation of their amide precursors with [ 11 C]CH 3 I. Biodistribution, blocking and metabolite studies of both tracers were performed in NMRI mice. Finally, a PET study in Sprague-Dawley rats was performed for [ 11 C]-RS 2360. Results Both tracers were obtained in a radiochemical yield of approximately 30% with radiochemical purity of >98%. Biodistribution studies showed high brain uptake followed by rapid brain clearance for both radiotracers. In the brain, [ 11 C]-RS 2360 was more stable than [ 11 C]-RS 2315. Blocking studies in mice could not demonstrate specificity of [ 11 C]-RS 2315 towards MAO-A or MAO-B. The blocking and imaging study with [ 11 C]-RS 2360 on the other hand indicated specific binding in MAO-A at the earliest time points. Conclusions [ 11 C]-RS 2315 displayed a high nonspecific binding and is therefore not suitable for visualization of MAO-A in vivo. [ 11 C]-RS 2360 on the other hand has potential for mapping MAO-A since specific binding is demonstrated.