EDTA and DTPA modified ligands as sequestering agents for uranyl decorporation

Synthesis of modified EDTA and DTPA ligands and determination of their binding affinities for the uranyl cation are described.Thanks to a screening method, based on a chromophoric complex displacement procedure, chelating properties were studied in aqueous media under various pH conditions for evaluation of their in vivo uranyl-removal efficacy. Each ligand showed a more or less pronounced affinity for uranium. Specific ligands based on EDTA or DTPA analogues containing sulfocatecholamide (CAMS) were found to exhibit a significant affinity towards uranyl ion in acidic, neutral or basic conditions.

Uranyl-sequestering agents based on modified EDTA and DTPA were synthesized and evaluated towards their binding abilities for the uranyl cation.