On the structural modification of 2-nitroimidazole-99mTc(CO)3 complex, a hypoxia marker, for improving in vivo pharmacokinetics

IntroductionA 2-nitroimidazole-99mTc(CO)3 complex reported earlier showed promise with respect to its uptake and retention in hypoxic tumor. However, significant uptake and slow clearance from liver imposed severe limitations towards advocating its possible practical utility. In an attempt to improving its liver clearance, an ether linkage, which is known to help in liver clearance, was introduced in the molecule.MethodsThe 2-nitroimidazole iminodiacetic acid (IDA) derivative containing an ether linkage was synthesized in a five step procedure from 2-nitroimidazole. This derivative was radiolabeled using [99mTc(CO)3(H2O)3]+ precursor complex. The corresponding Re(CO)3 analogue was also synthesized in the macroscopic level for structural characterization. The 99mTc(CO)3 complex was evaluated in an animal model bearing fibrosarcoma tumor.ResultsThe in vivo evaluation of the complex indicated that, as envisaged, introduction of the ether linkage has improved clearance from the liver. The complex also showed higher retention in tumor compared to the 2-nitroimidazole-IDA-99mTc(CO)3 complex reported earlier. Though the tumor to muscle ratio improved with time, the tumor to blood ratio did not show any significant improvement. Despite improved liver clearance, there was significant liver activity present even at 3 h p.i. attributable to gradual accumulation of activity cleared from muscle and blood.ConclusionsThough the introduction of ether linkage improved liver clearance of the modified 2-nitroimidazole complex, it was found that a single ether linkage was not sufficient to achieve the desirable level of clearance. Probably, a linker with multiple ether groups, such as a di- or tri-ethylene glycol spacer, may be a possible solution to this issue.