Low energy cyclotron production and cyclometalation chemistry of iridium-192

This work demonstrates the labelling of a novel class of iridium lumophore with radioiridium, as proof-of-feasibility for producing and using the medically useful isotope iridium-192. Natural osmium was electroplated onto silver target backings in basic media and irradiated for up to two hours with ≤20 μA of 12.8 MeV protons. A range of iridium isotopes were generated, characterized and quantified using γ-spectroscopy methods. The target material was removed from the backings via oxidative dissolution with hydrogen peroxide, and the iridium radioisotopes isolated using an anion exchange resin. Both no-carrier-added as well as carrier-added formulations were then used in subsequent cyclometalation reactions.