NMDA receptor channels: labeling of MK-801 with iodine-125 and fluorine-18

Methods for labeling the glutamate channel blocking agent MK-801 with iodine-125 (125I) and fluorine-18 (18F) are described. Radioiodine was incorporated in the 1- or 3-positions of the aromatic ring of (±)MK-801 by solid-state halogen exchange techniques. Attachment of the [18F]fluoromethyl group to the bridgehead methyl position was achieved by reaction of [18F]fluoride with the triflamide alcohol or the novel cyclic sulfamate recently reported by Merck chemists. Radiochemical yields of (±)13-[18F]-fluoromethyl-MK-801 were >72%, EOB; radiochemical purity > 99%. In competitive binding studies using rat brain homogenates, (±)3-bromo-MK-801 showed greater affinity than (±)MK-801 for the glutamate-linked channel. The experimental log P (2.1 ± 0.1) of MK-801 is optimal for transit of the blood-brain barrier. These preliminary findings support further testing of [123I]iodo-MK-801 and [18F]fluoromethyl-MK-801 as possible agents for in vivo mapping of the glutamate receptor complex. (author)