Scalability study on [133La]LaCl3 production with a focus on potential clinical applications.

BACKGROUND: In recent years, targeted alpha therapy has gained importance in the clinics, and in particular, the alpha-emitter 225Ac plays a fundamental role in this clinical development. Nevertheless, depending on the chelating system no real diagnostic alternative has been established which shares similar chemical properties with this alpha-emitting radionuclide. In fact, the race to launch a diagnostic radionuclide to form a matched pair with 225Ac is still open, and 133La features attractive radiation properties to claim this place. However, in order to enable its translation into clinical use, upscaling of the production of this PET radionuclide is needed. RESULTS: A study on optimal irradiation parameters, separation conditions and an exhaustive product characterization was carried out. In this framework, a proton irradiation of 2 h, 60 µA and 18.7 MeV produced 133La activities of up to 10.7 GBq at end of bombardment. In addition, the performance of four different chromatographic resins were tested and two optimized purification methods presented, taking approximately 20 min with a 133La recovery efficiencies of over 98%, decay corrected. High radionuclide purity and apparent molar activity was proved, of over 99.5% and 120 GBq/µmol, respectively, at end of purification. Furthermore, quantitative complexation of PSMA-617 and mcp-M-PSMA were obtained with molar activities up to 80 GBq/µmol. In addition, both 133La-radioconjugates offered high stability in serum, of over (98.5 ± 0.3)% and (99.20 ± 0.08)%, respectively, for up to 24 h. A first dosimetry estimation was also performed and it was calculated that an 133La application for imaging with between 350 and 750 MBq would only have an effective dose of 2.1-4.4 mSv, which is comparable to that of 18F and 68Ga based radiopharmaceuticals. CONCLUSIONS: In this article we present an overarching study on 133La production, from the radiation parameters optimization to a clinical dose estimation. Lanthanum-133 activities in the GBq range could be produced, formulated as [133La]LaCl3 with high quality regarding radiolabeling and radionuclide purity. We believe that increasing the 133La availability will further promote the development of radiopharmaceuticals based on macropa or other chelators suitable for 225Ac.

Alpha-Emitting Radionuclides: Current Status and Future Perspectives.

The use of radionuclides for targeted endoradiotherapy is a rapidly growing field in oncology. In particular, the focus on the biological effects of different radiation qualities is an important factor in understanding and implementing new therapies. Together with the combined approach of imaging and therapy, therapeutic nuclear medicine has recently made great progress. A particular area of research is the use of alpha-emitting radionuclides, which have unique physical properties associated with outstanding advantages, e.g., for single tumor cell targeting. Here, recent results and open questions regarding the production of alpha-emitting isotopes as well as their chemical combination with carrier molecules and clinical experience from compassionate use reports and clinical trials are discussed.

Copper-free click bioconjugation of technetium-99m complexes using strained cyclononyne derivatives.

Click chemistry, in particular copper-free click reactions, has gained growing interest for radiolabelling purposes in the field of radiopharmaceutical sciences. [99mTc][Tc(CO)3(H2O)3]+ works as an excellent starting complex for the radiolabelling of biomolecules under mild conditions. A new chelator, investigated for the copper-free strain-promoted cycloaddition (SPAAC), was synthesised containing the 2,2'-dipicolylamine (DPA) moiety for the 99mTc-tricarbonyl core and compared with a DPA chelator based on activated esters for conventional radiolabelling. For the copper-free click labelling procedure, a DPA containing 4,8-diazacyclononyne moiety was prepared from a sulfonyl-modified diamide (four steps, 64% yield) followed by the Nicholas reaction with butyne-1,3-diol. The 99mTc-DPA-DACN-complex was prepared with a radiochemical conversion (RCC) of 89% after 30 min. The following SPAAC reaction with an azide-functionalised PSMA molecule was performed within 4-5 hours at 100 °C to obtain the PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen) targeting 99mTc-complex with 79% RCC and without side products. For comparison, a second DPA-chelator based on a tetrafluorophenyl (TFP) ester was prepared (three steps, 64% yield) and was successfully radiolabelled with [[99mTc]Tc(CO)3(H2O)3]+ with 89% RCC after 20 min and >99% radiochemical purity after separation using an RP18 cartridge. The subsequent conjugation of an amine-functionalised PSMA targeting molecule was performed with 23% RCC after 150 min. Two other unknown side products were observed indicating the decomposition of the TFP ester during the labelling. All nonradioactive Re(CO)3 complexes were synthesised from (Et4N)2[ReBr3(CO)3] (91% yield for the natRe-DPA-TFP ester, 76% yield for natRe-DPA-DACN) and characterised to confirm the identity of the 99mTc-complexes.

Modulating the pharmacokinetic profile of Actinium-225-labeled macropa-derived radioconjugates by dual targeting of PSMA and albumin.

Rationale: Small 225Ac-labeled prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA)-targeted radioconjugates have been described for targeted alpha therapy of metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer. Transient binding to serum albumin as a highly abundant, inherent transport protein represents a commonly applied strategy to modulate the tissue distribution profile of such low-molecular-weight radiotherapeutics and to enhance radioactivity uptake into tumor lesions with the ultimate objective of improved therapeutic outcome. Methods: Two ligands mcp-M-alb-PSMA and mcp-D-alb-PSMA were synthesized by combining a macropa-derived chelator with either one or two lysine-ureido-glutamate-based PSMA- and 4-(p-iodophenyl)butyrate albumin-binding entities using multistep peptide-coupling chemistry. Both compounds were labeled with [225Ac]Ac3+ under mild conditions and their reversible binding to serum albumin was analyzed by an ultrafiltration assay as well as microscale thermophoresis measurements. Saturation binding studies and clonogenic survival assays using PSMA-expressing LNCaP cells were performed to evaluate PSMA-mediated cell binding and to assess the cytotoxic potency of the novel radioconjugates [225Ac]Ac-mcp-M-alb-PSMA and [225Ac]Ac-mcp-D-alb-PSMA, respectively. Biodistributions of both 225Ac-radioconjugates were investigated using LNCaP tumor-bearing SCID mice. Histological examinations of selected organs were performed to analyze the occurrence of necrosis using H&E staining, DNA damage via γH2AX staining and proliferation via Ki67 expression in the tissue samples. Results: Enhanced binding to serum components in general and to human serum albumin in particular was revealed for [225Ac]Ac-mcp-M-alb-PSMA and [225Ac]Ac-mcp-D-alb-PSMA, respectively. Moreover, the novel derivatives are highly potent PSMA ligands as their KD values in the nanomolar range (23.38 and 11.56 nM) are comparable to the reference radioconjugates [225Ac]Ac-mcp-M-PSMA (30.83 nM) and [225Ac]Ac-mcp-D-PSMA (10.20 nM) without albumin binders. The clonogenic activity of LNCaP cells after treatment with the 225Ac-labeled ligands was affected in a dose- and time-dependent manner, whereas the bivalent radioconjugate [225Ac]Ac-mcp-D-alb-PSMA has a stronger impact on the clonogenic cell survival than its monovalent counterpart [225Ac]Ac-mcp-M-alb-PSMA. Biodistribution studies performed in LNCaP tumor xenografts showed prolonged blood circulation times for both albumin-binding radioconjugates and a substantially increased tumor uptake (46.04 ± 7.77 %ID/g for [225Ac]Ac-mcp-M-alb-PSMA at 128 h p.i. and 153.48 ± 37.76 %ID/g at 168 h p.i. for [225Ac]Ac-mcp-D-alb-PSMA) with favorable tumor-to-background ratios. Consequently, a clear histological indication of DNA damage was discovered in the tumor tissues, whereas DNA double-strand break formation in kidney and liver sections was less pronounced. Conclusion: The modification of the PSMA-based 225Ac-radioconjugates with one or two albumin-binding entities resulted in an improved radiopharmacological behavior including a greatly enhanced tumor accumulation combined with a rather low uptake in most non-targeted organs combined with a high excretion via the kidneys.

The impact of barium isotopes in radiopharmacy and nuclear medicine - From past to presence.

With the exception of beryllium, divalent cations of every alkaline earth metal are characterized by their calcimimetic behavior. Thus, in vivo biodistribution of these cations mostly occurs in form of a massive accumulation in bone tissues, consisting of hydroxyapatite to a major extent. Apart from the lightest elements beryllium and magnesium, animal studies and human studies regarding the overall in vivo behavior were carried out by using radioisotopes of the elements calcium, strontium, barium and radium. To date, only strontium with its radioisotopes and radium gained importance for applications in nuclear medicine, mainly for pain-reducing and palliative treatment of bone metastases. In contrast, barium radioisotopes can be ascertained as useful imaging agents and possible diagnostic analogues for theranostic approaches. This review focuses on the characteristic and chemical behavior of barium compounds, possible radioactive barium isotopes for future applications in nuclear medicine and radiopharmacy as well as recent results regarding barium-131 as diagnostic match for radium isotopes used in targeted alpha therapy.

Towards Targeted Alpha Therapy with Actinium-225: Chelators for Mild Condition Radiolabeling and Targeting PSMA-A Proof of Concept Study.

Currently, targeted alpha therapy is one of the most investigated topics in radiopharmaceutical cancer management. Especially, the alpha emitter 225Ac has excellent nuclear properties and is gaining increasing popularity for the treatment of various tumor entities. We herein report on the synthesis of two universal 225Ac-chelators for mild condition radiolabeling and binding to conjugate molecules of pharmacological interest via the copper-mediated click chemistry. A convenient radiolabeling procedure was investigated as well as the complex stability proved for both chelators and two PSMA (prostate-specific membrane antigen)-targeting model radioconjugates. Studies regarding affinity and cell survival were performed on LNCaP cells followed by biodistribution studies, which were performed using LNCaP tumor-bearing mice. High efficiency radiolabeling for all conjugates was demonstrated. Cell binding studies revealed a fourfold lower cell affinity for the PSMA radioconjugate with one targeting motif compared to the radioconjugate owing two targeting motifs. Additionally, these differences were verified by in vitro cell survival evaluation and biodistribution studies, both showing a higher cell killing efficiency for the same dose, a higher tumor uptake (15%ID/g) and a rapid whole body clearance after 24 h. The synthesized chelators will overcome obstacles of lacking stability and worse labeling needs regarding 225Ac complexation using the DOTA (1,4,7,10-tetraazacyclododecane-1,4,7,10-tetrayl)tetraacetic acid) chelator. Moreover, the universal functionalization expands the coverage of these chelators in combination with any sensitive bio(macro)molecule, thus improving treatment of any addressable tumor target.

Sub-10†nm Radiolabeled Barium Sulfate Nanoparticles as Carriers for Theranostic Applications and Targeted Alpha Therapy.

The treatment of cancer patients with α-particle-emitting therapeutics continues to gain in importance and relevance. The range of radiopharmaceutically relevant α-emitters is limited to a few radionuclides, as stable chelators or carrier systems for safe transport of the radioactive cargo are often lacking. Encapsulation of α-emitters into solid inorganic systems can help to diversify the portfolio of candidate radionuclides, provided, that these nanomaterials effectively retain both the parent and the recoil daughters. We therefore focus on designing stable and defined nanocarrier-based systems for various clinically relevant radionuclides, including the promising α-emitting radionuclide 224Ra. Hence, sub-10 nm barium sulfate nanocontainers were prepared and different radiometals like 89Zr, 111In, 131Ba, 177Lu or 224Ra were incorporated. Our system shows stabilities of >90 % regarding the radiometal release from the BaSO4 matrix. Furthermore, we confirm the presence of surface-exposed amine functionalities as well as the formation of a biomolecular corona.

Light-Activated Carbon Monoxide Prodrugs Based on Bipyridyl Dicarbonyl Ruthenium(II) Complexes.

Two photoactivatable dicarbonyl ruthenium(II) complexes based on an amide-functionalised bipyridine scaffold (4-position) equipped with an alkyne functionality or a green-fluorescent BODIPY (boron-dipyrromethene) dye have been prepared and used to investigate their light-induced decarbonylation. UV/Vis, FTIR and 13 C NMR spectroscopies as well as gas chromatography and multivariate curve resolution alternating least-squares analysis (MCR-ALS) were used to elucidate the mechanism of the decarbonylation process. Release of the first CO molecule occurs very quickly, while release of the second CO molecule proceeds more slowly. In vitro studies using two cell lines A431 (human squamous carcinoma) and HEK293 (human embryonic kidney cells) have been carried out in order to characterise the anti-proliferative and anti-apoptotic activities. The BODIPY-labelled compound allows for monitoring the cellular uptake, showing fast internalisation kinetics and accumulation at the endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondria.

Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography Tracer.

Single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) is the state-of-the-art imaging modality in nuclear medicine despite the fact that only a few new SPECT tracers have become available in the past 20 years. Critical for the future success of SPECT is the design of new and specific tracers for the detection, localization, and staging of a disease and for monitoring therapy. The utility of SPECT imaging to address oncologic questions is dependent on radiotracers that ideally exhibit excellent tissue penetration, high affinity to the tumor-associated target structure, specific uptake and retention in the malignant lesions, and rapid clearance from non-targeted tissues and organs. In general, a target-specific SPECT radiopharmaceutical can be divided into two main parts: a targeting biomolecule (e.g., peptide, antibody fragment) and a γ-radiation-emitting radionuclide (e.g., 99mTc, 123I). If radiometals are used as the radiation source, a bifunctional chelator is needed to link the radioisotope to the targeting entity. In a rational SPECT tracer design, these single components have to be critically evaluated in order to achieve a balance among the demands for adequate target binding, and a rapid clearance of the radiotracer. The focus of this chapter is to depict recent developments of tumor-targeted SPECT radiotracers for imaging of cancer diseases. Possibilities for optimization of tracer design and potential causes for design failure are discussed and highlighted with selected examples.

Synthesis, radiolabelling and initial biological characterisation of 18F-labelled xanthine derivatives for PET imaging of Eph receptors.

Eph receptor tyrosine kinases, particularly EphA2 and EphB4, represent promising candidates for molecular imaging due to their essential role in cancer progression and therapy resistance. Xanthine derivatives were identified to be potent Eph receptor inhibitors with IC50 values in the low nanomolar range (1-40 nm). These compounds occupy the hydrophobic pocket of the ATP-binding site in the kinase domain. Based on lead compound 1, we designed two fluorine-18-labelled receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors ([18F]2/3) as potential tracers for positron emission tomography (PET). Docking into the ATP-binding site allowed us to find the best position for radiolabelling. The replacement of the methyl group at the uracil residue ([18F]3) rather than the methyl group of the phenoxy moiety ([18F]2) by a fluoropropyl group was predicted to preserve the affinity of the lead compound 1. Herein, we point out a synthesis route to [18F]2 and [18F]3 and the respective tosylate precursors as well as a labelling procedure to insert fluorine-18. After radiolabelling, both radiotracers were obtained in approximately 5% radiochemical yield with high radiochemical purity (>98%) and a molar activity of >10 GBq µmol-1. In line with the docking studies, first cell experiments revealed specific, time-dependent binding and uptake of [18F]3 to EphA2 and EphB4-overexpressing A375 human melanoma cells, whereas [18F]2 did not accumulate at these cells. Since both tracers [18F]3 and [18F]2 are stable in rat blood, the novel radiotracers might be suitable for in vivo molecular imaging of Eph receptors with PET.

Editorial for the special Issue "Jörg Steinbach".

This special issue of Journal of Labelled Compounds and Radiopharmaceuticals is dedicated to commemorate the outstanding scientific work of Jörg Steinbach, former director of the Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR) and full professor for Bioinorganic and Radiopharmaceutical Chemistry at the Technical University Dresden. Current legal regulations brought to an end the formal attachment of Professor Steinbach to the TU Dresden as well as the directorship of the institute within his 65th birthday. A festive symposium has been held at the HZDR on the occasion of his retirement on September 5th, 2018, one day after the inauguration of the new Centre for Radiopharmaceutical Tumor Research at the HZDR.

Modified Calix[4]crowns as Molecular Receptors for Barium.

Invited for this month's cover picture is the group around Dr. Constantin Mamat at the Institute of Radiopharmaceutical Cancer Research at the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (Germany) together with Prof. Martin Köckerling from the University of Rostock (Germany). The cover picture shows the ability of special functionalized calix[4]crown-6 derivatives to stably bind group 2 metals like barium. This binding mode is highly important for radiopharmaceutical applications not to lose the respective radiometal in vivo to avoid high background signals and/or false positive results and damages in other tissues. For this purpose, different calix[4]crowns were tested, based upon their potential to stably bind barium as surrogate for radium. Radium nuclides are known to be good candidates for usage in α-targeted therapies. Currently, radium-223 is used for α-therapy of bone metastases because of its calcium mimetics. Our aim is to apply the radium to treat other cancer tissues. That's why we need novel chelators to stably fix groups 2 metals like barium and radium. Read the full text of their Full Paper at https://doi.org/10.1002/open.201800019.

Biodistribution studies of ultrasmall silicon nanoparticles and carbon dots in experimental rats and tumor mice.

Ultrasmall clearable nanoparticles possess enormous potential as cancer imaging agents. In particular, biocompatible silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) hold great potential in this regard. Their facile surface functionalization easily allows the introduction of different labels for in vivo imaging. However, to date, a thorough biodistribution study by in vivo positron emission tomography (PET) and a comparative study of Si vs. C particles of similar size are missing. In this contribution, ultrasmall (size <5 nm) Si NPs and CQDs were synthesized and characterized by high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM), Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR), absorption and steady-state emission spectroscopy. Subsequent functionalization of NPs with a near-infrared dye (Kodak-XS-670) or a radiolabel (64Cu) enabled a detailed in vitro and in vivo study of the particles. For radiolabeling experiments, the bifunctional chelating agent S-2-(4-isothiocyanatobenzyl)-1,4,7-triazacyclononane-1,4,7-triacetic acid (p-SCN-Bn-NOTA) was conjugated to the amino surface groups of the respective NPs. Efficient radiolabeling of NOTA-functionalized NPs with the positron emitter 64Cu was found. The biodistribution and PET studies showed a rapid renal clearance from the in vivo systems for both variants of the nanoparticles. Interestingly, the different derivatives investigated exhibited significant differences in the biodistribution and pharmacokinetic properties. This can mostly be attributed to different surface charge and hydrophilicity of the NPs, arising from the synthetic strategy used to prepare the particles.

Recent progress using the Staudinger ligation for radiolabeling applications.

The increasing application of positron emission tomography and single-photon emission computer tomography in radiopharmacy and nuclear medicine has stimulated the development of a multitude of novel and versatile bioorthogonal conjugation techniques. Currently, there is particular interest in radiolabeling biologically active, high molecular weight compounds like peptides, proteins, or antibodies, but also for the labeling of small organic compounds. An enormous challenge in radiolabeling these biologically active molecules is that the introduction of radiohalogens like fluorine-18 as well as various radiometals proceeds under harsh conditions, which could destroy the biomolecule. The Staudinger ligation is one of the most powerful bioorthogonal conjugation techniques. The reaction proceeds over wide temperature and pH ranges; an amide (peptide) bond is formed as the ligation unit, which minimizes distortion of the structure; no isomers are obtained; and the reaction proceeds without any metal catalyst. Due to this adaptability, this robust ligation type is a perfect candidate with a high potential for various applications in the field of radiopharmacy for the labeling of biomolecules under mild conditions. This review summarizes recent research concerning the implementation of the Staudinger ligation for radiolabeling applications.

Preparation of a novel radiotracer targeting the EphB4 receptor via radiofluorination using spiro azetidinium salts as precursor.

The visualization of Eph receptors, which are overexpressed in various tumor entities, using selective small molecule Eph inhibitors by means of positron emission tomography is a promising approach for tumor imaging. N-(Pyrimidinyl)indazolamines represent a class of compounds, which are known to have high affinity especially for the EphB4 receptor. Radiofluorination of these compounds could provide a highly specific imaging agent and was investigated using a classical nucleophilic introduction of [18 F]fluoride as well as a less common nucleophilic ring-opening reaction of azetidinium salts. In the past, radiofluorinations using azetidinium precursors were demonstrated to result in high radiochemical yields in short periods. For this purpose, an azetidinium precursor based on the N-(pyrimidinyl)indazolamine lead compound was developed, and radiofluorination was successfully accomplished. The respective [18 F]radiotracer was quickly prepared with high radiochemical purity >97% and in a radiochemical yield of 34%.

Development of indazolylpyrimidine derivatives as high-affine EphB4 receptor ligands and potential PET radiotracers.

Due to their essential role in the pathogenesis of cancer, members of the Eph (erythropoietin-producing hepatoma cell line-A2) receptor tyrosine kinase family represent promising candidates for molecular imaging. Thus, the development and preparation of novel radiotracers for the noninvasive imaging of the EphB4 receptor via positron emission tomography (PET) is described. First in silico investigations with the indazolylpyrimidine lead compound which is known to be highly affine to EphB4 were executed to identify favorable labeling positions for an introduction of fluorine-18 to retain the affinity. Based on this, reference compounds as well as precursors were developed and labeled with carbon-11 and fluorine-18, respectively. For this purpose, a protecting group strategy essentially had to be generated to prevent unwanted methylation and to enable the introduction of fluorine-18. Further, a convenient radiolabeling strategy using [(11)C]methyl iodide was established which afforded the isotopically labeled radiotracer in 30-35% RCY (d.c.) which is identical with the original inhibitor molecule. A spiro ammonium precursor was prepared for radiolabeling with fluorine-18. Unfortunately, the labeling did not lead to the desired (18)F-radiotracer under the chosen conditions.

(18)F-Labeled 1,4-Dioxa-8-azaspiro[4.5]decane Derivative: Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of a σ1 Receptor Radioligand with Low Lipophilicity as Potent Tumor Imaging Agent.

We report the syntheses and evaluation of series of novel piperidine compounds with low lipophilicity as σ1 receptor ligands. 8-(4-(2-Fluoroethoxy)benzyl)-1,4-dioxa-8-azaspiro[4.5]decane (5a) possessed high affinity (K(i) = 5.4 ± 0.4 nM) for σ1 receptors and selectivity for σ2 receptors (30-fold) and the vesicular acetylcholine transporter (1404-fold). [(18)F]5a was prepared using a one-pot, two-step labeling procedure in an automated synthesis module, with a radiochemical purity of >95%, and a specific activity of 25-45 GBq/µmol. Cellular association, biodistribution, and autoradiography with blocking experiments indicated specific binding of [(18)F]5a to σ1 receptors in vitro and in vivo. Small animal positron emission tomography (PET) imaging using mouse tumor xenograft models demonstrated a high accumulation in human carcinoma and melanoma. Treatment with haloperidol significantly reduced the accumulation of the radiotracer in tumors. These findings suggest that radiotracer with suitable lipophilicity and appropriate affinity for σ1 receptors could be used for tumor imaging.

Radiofluorination and first radiopharmacological characterization of a SWLAY peptide-based ligand targeting EphA2.

Peptides labeled with short-lived positron emitters are of considerable interest as probes for molecular imaging by positron emission tomography. Herein, the regioselective and convenient radiofluorination of a biologically relevant alkyne-modified SWLAY peptide bound on solid support with the radiolabeling building block 1-(3-azidopropyl)-4-(3-fluoropropyl)piperazine ([(18) F]AFP) is described. Peptides including this amino acid sequence are promising candidates for imaging of the erythropoietin-producing hepatoma cell line-A2 receptor (Eph), which is an interesting target for tumor imaging due to its overexpression in various tumor entities. The desired (18) F-peptide could be prepared in a total synthesis time of 140 min including the removal of the catalytic copper species and was obtained with a radiochemical yield of 11 ± 2% (n = 5) and a radiochemical purity >98%. The method's feasibility for a robust and bioorthogonal radiolabeling via the 1,3-dipolar Huisgen cycloaddition was demonstrated. Preliminary radiopharmacological studies regarding the metabolic stability of the peptides in cell culture supernatants and rat plasma were accomplished as well as the cellular association of the (18) F-peptide in erythropoietin-producing hepatoma cell line-A2-overexpressing human melanoma cells in vitro. Furthermore, an initial in vivo positron emission tomography experiment was performed, which showed a fast metabolism of the novel (18) F-peptide.

An efficient bioorthogonal strategy using CuAAC click chemistry for radiofluorinations of SNEW peptides and the role of copper depletion.

The EphB2 receptor is known to be overexpressed in various types of cancer and is therefore a promising target for tumor cell imaging by positron emission tomography (PET). In this regard, imaging could facilitate the early detection of EphB2-overexpressing tumors, monitoring responses to therapy directed toward EphB2, and thus improvement in patient outcomes. We report the synthesis and evaluation of several fluorine-18-labeled peptides containing the SNEW amino acid motif, with high affinity for the EphB2 receptor, for their potential as radiotracers in the non-invasive imaging of cancer using PET. For the purposes of radiofluorination, EphB2-antagonistic SNEW peptides were varied at the C terminus by the introduction of L-cysteine, and further by alkyne- or azide-modified amino acids. In addition, two novel bifunctional and bioorthogonal labeling building blocks [(18)F]AFP and [(18)F]BFP were applied, and their capacity to introduce fluorine-18 was compared with that of the established building block [(18)F]FBAM. Copper-assisted Huisgen 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition, which belongs to the set of bioorthogonal click chemistry reactions, was used to introduce both novel building blocks into azide- or alkyne-modified SNEW peptides under mild conditions. Finally, the depletion of copper immediately after radiolabeling is a highly important step of this novel methodology.